How To Fix >U157 - Error in file: Data record type 4 must follow G/L item (item &1)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: >U -

• Message number: 157

• Message text: Error in file: Data record type 4 must follow G/L item (item &1)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message >U157 - Error in file: Data record type 4 must follow G/L item (item &1) ?

  The SAP error message U157 indicates that there is an issue with the structure of the data being processed, specifically related to the sequence of records in a file that is being uploaded or processed. The error message states that a data record of type 4 must follow a General Ledger (G/L) item, which means that the system expects a specific order of records in the input file.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect File Structure: The input file may not be structured correctly. The system expects a G/L item record to precede a data record of type 4, and if this order is not maintained, the error will occur.
  Missing G/L Item: There may be a missing G/L item record before the data record type 4, which is causing the error.
  Data Corruption: The file may have been corrupted or improperly formatted, leading to unexpected record types being encountered.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check File Structure: Review the structure of the input file to ensure that it adheres to the expected format. Make sure that every data record type 4 is preceded by a corresponding G/L item record.
  Validate Data Records: Ensure that all necessary G/L item records are present in the file before any data record type 4. If any G/L item records are missing, add them in the correct sequence.
  Reformat the File: If the file is improperly formatted, reformat it according to the specifications required by SAP. This may involve rearranging records or correcting any discrepancies in the data.
  Use SAP Tools: If available, use SAP tools or transaction codes (like LSMW, BAPIs, or others) to assist in the data upload process, as these tools often have built-in validations that can help prevent such errors.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context of the error, you may be using transaction codes like FB50 (G/L Account Document Entry), LSMW (Legacy System Migration Workbench), or others related to data uploads.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for specific guidelines on the file structure and record types expected for the transaction you are working with.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message, as there may be patches or additional guidance provided by SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the U157 error and implement the necessary corrections to resolve it.