How To Fix UPS251 - Preceding units can only be entered in the original packet

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UPS - ALE Distribution Packet

• Message number: 251

• Message text: Preceding units can only be entered in the original packet

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 UPS251 - Preceding units can only be entered in the original packet ?

  The SAP error message UPS251 ("Preceding units can only be entered in the original packet") typically occurs in the context of handling packaging and logistics within the SAP system, particularly when dealing with the handling of materials and their packaging units.
  Cause:
  This error usually arises when there is an attempt to enter or process a quantity of a material that is not aligned with the original packaging units defined in the system. Specifically, it indicates that the system expects the quantity to be entered in the original packaging unit (e.g., boxes, pallets) rather than in a different unit of measure. This can happen in scenarios such as:
  
  Trying to enter a quantity that is not a multiple of the original packaging unit.
  Incorrect configuration of the material master data, particularly in the area of packaging specifications.
  Issues with the handling unit management settings or the way the material is being processed in the system.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the UPS251 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Material Master Data:
  
  Go to the material master record and verify the packaging information. Ensure that the original packaging unit is correctly defined and that the conversion factors are set up properly.
  
  
  
  Review Handling Units:
  
  If you are using handling unit management, check the handling unit settings. Ensure that the handling units are correctly defined and that the quantities being processed match the original packaging units.
  
  
  
  Adjust Input Quantity:
  
  When entering quantities, make sure that you are entering them in the original packaging unit. If you need to enter a different unit, convert it to the original packaging unit first.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources related to packaging and handling units for additional guidance on how to properly configure and manage packaging in your specific SAP environment.
  
  
  
  Check User Exits or Custom Code:
  
  If there are any custom developments or user exits that might affect how quantities are processed, review them to ensure they are not causing the issue.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, especially if this is a recurring issue or if it affects multiple users.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to material management (e.g., MM01 for material creation, MM02 for material changes) to help you navigate the material master data.
  Training and Documentation: Ensure that users involved in logistics and inventory management are trained on the importance of packaging units and how to handle them correctly in SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the UPS251 error and implement a solution to resolve it.