How To Fix TW181 - Unexpected record length & at file position &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TW - R3trans - Messages

• Message number: 181

• Message text: Unexpected record length & at file position &

What causes this issue?

The data file was destroyed.

System Response

The import terminates.

How to fix this error?

Repeat the export.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TW181 - Unexpected record length & at file position & ?

  The SAP error message TW181, which states "Unexpected record length & at file position &," typically occurs during data import or export processes, particularly when dealing with file handling in SAP systems. This error indicates that the system has encountered a record in a file that does not match the expected length, which can lead to issues in processing the data correctly.
  Causes:
  
  File Format Mismatch: The file being processed may not conform to the expected format or structure defined in the SAP system.
  Corrupted File: The file may be corrupted or improperly formatted, leading to unexpected record lengths.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for the data import/export process may be incorrect, leading to mismatches in expected record lengths.
  Data Entry Errors: Manual errors during data entry or file generation can lead to records that do not meet the expected length.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check File Format: Ensure that the file being processed adheres to the expected format. This includes checking delimiters, record lengths, and overall structure.
  Validate Data: Use data validation tools or scripts to check for inconsistencies or errors in the data before importing it into SAP.
  Review Configuration Settings: Verify the configuration settings in the SAP system for the data import/export process. Ensure that the expected record lengths and formats are correctly defined.
  Recreate the File: If the file is suspected to be corrupted, try recreating it from the source system or generating it again.
  Use SAP Tools: Utilize SAP tools like transaction codes (e.g., SE38 for report execution) to run any relevant programs that can help identify and fix the issue.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files related to the specific transaction or process you are working with for additional guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may help in troubleshooting, such as SE38 (ABAP Editor), SM37 (Job Monitoring), or ST22 (Dump Analysis).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the error message TW181. SAP Notes can provide specific guidance or fixes for known problems.
  Logs and Traces: Review application logs and traces to gather more context about the error. This can help identify the specific record or file causing the issue.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels for additional insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the TW181 error in your SAP system.