How To Fix UMK253 - Master data is still being used: Deletion is not possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UMK - Measures

• Message number: 253

• Message text: Master data is still being used: Deletion is not possible

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 UMK253 - Master data is still being used: Deletion is not possible ?

  The SAP error message UMK253 indicates that you are trying to delete master data that is still in use within the system. This is a common issue when dealing with master data in SAP, as the system prevents deletion to maintain data integrity and avoid inconsistencies.
  Cause:
  The error occurs because:
  
  The master data (e.g., material, vendor, customer) is still linked to transactions or other data objects in the system.
  There may be open purchase orders, sales orders, or other documents that reference the master data you are trying to delete.
  The master data might be assigned to various organizational units or have dependencies that prevent its deletion.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the UMK253 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Dependencies: Identify where the master data is being used. You can use transaction codes like:
  
  MM03 (Display Material) for materials
  BP (Business Partner) for vendors/customers
  ME2N (Purchase Orders by Vendor) to check for open purchase orders
  VA03 (Display Sales Order) to check for open sales orders
  
  
  
  Remove References: If you find that the master data is still being referenced in open transactions, you will need to:
  
  Close or delete those transactions if they are no longer needed.
  Change or reassign the references to another master data record if applicable.
  
  
  
  Use Deletion Flags: Instead of deleting the master data directly, consider marking it for deletion. This can be done by setting a deletion flag in the master data record. This way, the data will not be used in future transactions but will still be retained for historical purposes.
  
  
  Consult with Users: If you are unsure about the implications of deleting the master data, consult with users or stakeholders who may be affected by this change.
  
  
  Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to delete the master data. Sometimes, the error may also arise due to insufficient permissions.
  
  
  Technical Support: If you are unable to identify the dependencies or if the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting the SAP community for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for managing master data.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or patches related to the UMK253 error.
  Data Integrity: Understand the importance of data integrity in SAP and the reasons behind restrictions on deleting master data.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the UMK253 error and successfully manage your master data in SAP.