How To Fix ST838 - This entry is referred to

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ST - Terminology Database

• Message number: 838

• Message text: This entry is referred to

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ST838 - This entry is referred to ?

  The SAP error message ST838 ("This entry is referred to") typically occurs in the context of the SAP system when you are trying to delete or modify an entry that is still being referenced by other objects or transactions. This is a common issue in various modules, such as Material Management (MM), Sales and Distribution (SD), or others where data integrity is crucial.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered because the entry you are attempting to delete or modify is still in use or linked to other records. For example:
  
  A material master record is being referenced in purchase orders, sales orders, or stock movements.
  A customer or vendor master record is linked to open transactions or outstanding invoices.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the ST838 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify References: Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE16 (Data Browser) to check which tables or records are referencing the entry you want to delete. Common tables to check include:
  
  For materials: MARA, MSEG, EKPO, etc.
  For customers: KNA1, VBRK, etc.
  For vendors: LFA1, EKKO, etc.
  
  
  
  Remove Dependencies: Once you identify the dependent records, you will need to either delete or modify those records to remove the references. This may involve:
  
  Deleting or closing open purchase orders, sales orders, or invoices.
  Changing the status of the records that are referencing the entry.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: Depending on the type of entry, you may need to use specific transaction codes to manage the records:
  
  For materials: Use MM02 to change the material status or MM06 to mark it for deletion.
  For customers/vendors: Use XD02/XK02 to change the status or block the entry.
  
  
  
  Check for Custom Logic: If your organization has custom developments or enhancements, ensure that there are no custom validations or logic that might be causing the error.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific module you are working with for any additional guidance or known issues.
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for managing master data and transactions in your specific SAP module.
  Data Integrity: Understand the importance of data integrity in SAP and how dependencies can affect system operations.
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any notes related to ST838 or similar issues, as they may provide additional insights or patches.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the ST838 error in your SAP system.