How To Fix /SRMSMC/ADDRESS020 - The same fax number already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SRMSMC/ADDRESS -

• Message number: 020

• Message text: The same fax number 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 /SRMSMC/ADDRESS020 - The same fax number already exists ?

  The SAP error message /SRMSMC/ADDRESS020 indicates that there is an attempt to create or update a contact or address in the SAP system with a fax number that already exists in the database. This is a validation error that prevents duplicate fax numbers from being entered for different contacts or addresses.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Entry: The primary cause of this error is that the fax number you are trying to enter is already associated with another contact or address in the system.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, there may be duplicates that were not cleaned up.
  User Error: The user may have mistakenly entered the same fax number for a different contact.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Records: 
  
  Search the database for the existing fax number to confirm that it is already in use. You can do this by navigating to the relevant address or contact management transaction in SAP.
  
  
  
  Modify the Existing Entry: 
  
  If the fax number is indeed already in use, consider whether you can modify the existing entry instead of creating a new one.
  
  
  
  Use a Different Fax Number: 
  
  If you need to create a new contact or address, use a different fax number that is not already in the system.
  
  
  
  Data Cleanup: 
  
  If you suspect that there are unnecessary duplicates in the system, consider performing a data cleanup to remove or consolidate duplicate entries.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: 
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP administrator for specific guidelines on managing addresses and contacts.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for managing addresses, such as BP (Business Partner) or SU01 (User Maintenance).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create or modify contacts and addresses in the system.
  System Configuration: Sometimes, the configuration settings in the SAP system may enforce stricter rules on data entry. Consult with your SAP Basis or configuration team if you believe this is the case.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully manage your contacts and addresses in SAP.