How To Fix /SRMSMC/BPH005 - Hierarchy type &1 is still in use and can't be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SRMSMC/BPH -

• Message number: 005

• Message text: Hierarchy type &1 is still in use and can't be deleted

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 /SRMSMC/BPH005 - Hierarchy type &1 is still in use and can't be deleted ?

  The SAP error message /SRMSMC/BPH005 Hierarchy type &1 is still in use and can't be deleted typically occurs when you attempt to delete a hierarchy type that is currently being utilized in the system. This can happen in various contexts, such as when the hierarchy type is linked to existing data, processes, or configurations.
  Cause:
  
  Active Usage: The hierarchy type you are trying to delete is still being referenced by other objects or processes in the system.
  Data Dependencies: There may be existing data entries that are associated with the hierarchy type, preventing its deletion.
  Configuration Settings: The hierarchy type might be part of a configuration that is currently active or in use.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify Dependencies:
  
  Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE16 (Data Browser) to check for any tables or entries that reference the hierarchy type.
  Look for any active processes, reports, or configurations that might be using the hierarchy type.
  
  
  
  Remove References:
  
  If you find any active references to the hierarchy type, you will need to remove or deactivate them before attempting to delete the hierarchy type again.
  This may involve deleting or modifying related data entries or configurations.
  
  
  
  Check Custom Code:
  
  If there are custom developments or enhancements that reference the hierarchy type, ensure that these are also updated or removed.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes:
  
  You can use transaction codes like /SRMSMC/BPH to manage hierarchy types and check their status.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific module you are working with to understand the implications of deleting a hierarchy type.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the deletion process in a development or test environment before applying it to production.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might provide additional insights or solutions related to this error message.
  Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal SAP team for assistance.
  Backup: Always ensure that you have a backup of your data and configurations before making significant changes to the system.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and take appropriate action to resolve it.