How To Fix SH012 - Sorting not possible for more than 250 values

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SH - SAPhelp messages

• Message number: 012

• Message text: Sorting not possible for more than 250 values

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SH012 - Sorting not possible for more than 250 values ?

  The SAP error message SH012, which states "Sorting not possible for more than 250 values," typically occurs when you are trying to sort a list or a selection of values that exceeds the limit of 250 entries. This limit is often encountered in various SAP transactions, especially when dealing with large datasets or when using selection screens that allow multiple value entries.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the system has a built-in limitation on the number of values that can be sorted at once. When you attempt to sort a selection that contains more than 250 values, the system cannot process the request and throws this error.
  Solution:
  To resolve the SH012 error, you can consider the following approaches:
  
  
  Reduce the Number of Values: 
  
  Try to limit the number of values you are trying to sort. If possible, break down your selection into smaller groups that contain fewer than 250 values.
  
  
  
  Use Alternative Selection Methods:
  
  Instead of sorting a large number of values, consider using other selection methods, such as ranges or intervals, to reduce the number of individual entries.
  
  
  
  Batch Processing:
  
  If you are working with a large dataset, consider processing the data in batches. This means you can sort and handle smaller subsets of data sequentially.
  
  
  
  Custom ABAP Program:
  
  If you have access to ABAP development, you can create a custom program that handles sorting for larger datasets. This program can implement logic to sort data in smaller chunks and then combine the results.
  
  
  
  Check for Updates:
  
  Ensure that your SAP system is up to date. Sometimes, newer versions or patches may address limitations or improve performance.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific transaction or module you are using. There may be specific recommendations or workarounds provided by SAP.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or updates related to the SH012 error. SAP frequently releases notes that address known issues and provide solutions.
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various transaction codes, so understanding the context in which it appears can help in troubleshooting.
  Performance Considerations: If you frequently encounter this error, it may be worth reviewing your data management practices to optimize how data is handled within your SAP environment.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the SH012 error and improve your experience with sorting in SAP.