How To Fix UPS205 - Distribution unit must first be approved

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UPS - ALE Distribution Packet

• Message number: 205

• Message text: Distribution unit must first be approved

What causes this issue?

You want to post the object list of a distribution unit.
The distribution unit in inbound processing must be approved for this
to take place, which has not happened here.

System Response

The objects in the distribution unit cannot be posted.

How to fix this error?

Approve the distribution unit (TCode UPS02).

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message UPS205 - Distribution unit must first be approved ?

  The SAP error message UPS205, which states "Distribution unit must first be approved," typically occurs in the context of SAP's logistics or supply chain modules, particularly when dealing with distribution units or transport units that require approval before they can be processed further.
  Cause:
  The error indicates that the distribution unit (or transport unit) you are trying to work with has not yet been approved in the system. This could happen for several reasons:
  
  Approval Workflow: The distribution unit is part of an approval workflow that has not been completed.
  Status of the Distribution Unit: The distribution unit may be in a status that does not allow further processing until it is approved.
  Missing Authorizations: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to approve the distribution unit.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the UPS205 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Approval Status:
  
  Navigate to the relevant transaction or report where you can view the status of the distribution unit.
  Verify if the distribution unit is pending approval.
  
  
  
  Approve the Distribution Unit:
  
  If you have the necessary permissions, proceed to approve the distribution unit. This may involve navigating to a specific transaction code (like VL02N for changing delivery) or using a custom approval transaction.
  If you do not have the necessary permissions, contact your SAP administrator or the person responsible for the approval process.
  
  
  
  Review Workflow Settings:
  
  If the approval process is part of a workflow, ensure that the workflow is correctly configured and that all necessary steps are being followed.
  
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that your user role has the necessary authorizations to approve distribution units. If not, request the required access from your SAP security team.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to your organization's SAP documentation or user manuals for specific instructions related to the approval process for distribution units.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may be used for managing distribution units, such as VL01N (Create Outbound Delivery), VL02N (Change Outbound Delivery), or VL03N (Display Outbound Delivery).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the UPS205 error. SAP Notes can provide additional context or solutions for specific scenarios.
  Training: If this error is common in your organization, consider training sessions for users involved in the distribution process to ensure they understand the approval workflow.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP support team for further assistance.