How To Fix >U138 - Error in file: Type 1, 2, or 3 must follow data record type 3 (line &1)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: >U -

• Message number: 138

• Message text: Error in file: Type 1, 2, or 3 must follow data record type 3 (line &1)

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 >U138 - Error in file: Type 1, 2, or 3 must follow data record type 3 (line &1) ?

  The SAP error message U138 indicates an issue with the structure of a file being processed, specifically in the context of data records. This error typically arises when the file format does not adhere to the expected structure defined for the data being imported or processed. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  The error message "Type 1, 2, or 3 must follow data record type 3 (line &1)" suggests that the system encountered a data record of type 3, but the subsequent record does not conform to the expected sequence. In SAP, data records are often structured in a specific order, and if the order is violated, the system will throw this error.
  
  Incorrect File Format: The file being processed may not be formatted correctly according to the specifications required by SAP.
  Missing Records: There may be missing records that should follow the data record type 3.
  Corrupted Data: The file may be corrupted or contain unexpected characters or formatting issues.
  Improper Data Entry: Data may have been entered incorrectly, leading to an unexpected structure.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the U138 error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Check File Structure: Review the file structure to ensure it adheres to the expected format. Make sure that the records are in the correct order and that all required records are present.
  
  
  Validate Data Records: Ensure that the data records of type 1, 2, or 3 are correctly formatted and follow the data record type 3 as expected. Each record type should be properly defined and formatted.
  
  
  Use SAP Tools: Utilize SAP tools or transaction codes (like SE38 for report execution) to validate the file before processing. This can help identify any structural issues.
  
  
  Review Documentation: Refer to the relevant SAP documentation or guidelines for the specific data import process you are using. This can provide insights into the expected file format and structure.
  
  
  Test with Sample Data: If possible, test the import process with a smaller set of sample data that is known to be correctly formatted. This can help isolate the issue.
  
  
  Consult with Technical Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a technical expert who can analyze the file and the error in more detail.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may assist in file processing or validation (e.g., SE38, SM37 for job monitoring).
  File Formats: Understand the specific file formats (like IDoc, CSV, etc.) that are being used in your SAP environment, as different formats may have different requirements.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the U138 error in SAP.