How To Fix /SMB/IMPORT_EXPORT042 - Building block '&1' not imported as it already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SMB/IMPORT_EXPORT -

• Message number: 042

• Message text: Building block '&1' not imported as it already exists

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SMB/IMPORT_EXPORT042 - Building block '&1' not imported as it already exists ?

  The SAP error message /SMB/IMPORT_EXPORT042 indicates that a building block (BB) with the specified name (&1) already exists in the system, and therefore, it cannot be imported again. This error typically occurs during the import of a building block in the SAP Business ByDesign or SAP S/4HANA Cloud environments.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the building block you are trying to import is already present in the target system. This can happen if:
  
  The building block was previously imported and not deleted.
  There was an attempt to import the same building block multiple times.
  The building block was created manually or through another import process.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Building Blocks:
  
  Verify if the building block already exists in the system. You can do this by navigating to the relevant area in the SAP system where building blocks are managed.
  
  
  
  Delete or Rename:
  
  If the existing building block is not needed, you can delete it. Ensure that you have the necessary permissions and that deleting it will not affect other processes.
  If you need to keep the existing building block, consider renaming the new building block you are trying to import to avoid the conflict.
  
  
  
  Modify Import Process:
  
  If you are using a transport request or a similar import mechanism, ensure that the import process is correctly configured to handle existing building blocks. Some systems may allow for updates or modifications instead of outright imports.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review the SAP documentation or release notes related to building blocks for any specific guidelines or best practices regarding imports.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They may provide insights specific to your system configuration or version.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Building Blocks: In SAP, building blocks are reusable components that can be imported and exported between systems. They can include configurations, customizations, or other system elements.
  Transport Management: Understanding how transport management works in your SAP environment can help prevent such issues in the future. Familiarize yourself with the transport routes and the import/export processes.
  System Logs: Check system logs for additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully manage your building blocks in SAP.