How To Fix VG216 - Postal code & cannot be converted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VG - EDI Messages in SD

• Message number: 216

• Message text: Postal code & cannot be converted

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message VG216 - Postal code & cannot be converted ?

  The SAP error message VG216 - Postal code & cannot be converted typically occurs during address processing, especially when the system tries to convert or validate a postal code but fails due to format or data inconsistencies.
  
  Cause:
  
  The postal code entered in the address data does not conform to the expected format or contains invalid characters.
  The system's country-specific postal code conversion or validation routine cannot interpret the postal code.
  Missing or incorrect configuration in the country-specific address format or postal code validation rules.
  Sometimes, the error arises if the postal code contains special characters or spaces that the system cannot process.
  
  
  Explanation:
  
  SAP uses country-specific rules to validate and convert postal codes during address maintenance or document processing.
  The error message VG216 is triggered when the postal code conversion function module (e.g., CONVERSION_EXIT_POSTCODE_INPUT) fails to convert the input postal code into the internal format.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check the Postal Code Format:
  
  Verify that the postal code entered matches the expected format for the country.
  Remove any invalid characters, spaces, or special symbols.
  For example, if the postal code should be numeric only, ensure no letters or special characters are included.
  
  
  
  Review Country-Specific Conversion Routines:
  
  Check the conversion exit assigned for postal codes in transaction OBBS or via the IMG path:
  SPRO -> Logistics General -> Business Address Services -> Basic Settings -> Define Conversion Routines for Postal Codes
  Ensure the correct conversion routine is assigned for the country in question.
  
  
  
  Test Conversion Exit:
  
  Use function module CONVERSION_EXIT_POSTCODE_INPUT or related function modules to test the postal code conversion manually in SE37.
  This helps identify if the routine can handle the postal code or if it needs adjustment.
  
  
  
  Adjust or Enhance Conversion Routine:
  
  If the standard conversion routine does not support the postal code format, consider enhancing or creating a custom conversion routine.
  This requires ABAP development and should follow SAP guidelines.
  
  
  
  Check Master Data:
  
  Ensure that the address master data (customer, vendor, etc.) is correctly maintained.
  Sometimes, incorrect or incomplete country data can cause conversion failures.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support:
  
  Search for relevant SAP Notes that address postal code conversion issues for the specific country.
  Apply any recommended patches or corrections.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  OBBS - Maintain conversion routines for postal codes.
  SE37 - Test function modules like CONVERSION_EXIT_POSTCODE_INPUT.
  Address maintenance transactions (e.g., XD02, BP) where postal codes are entered.
  
  
  
  Function Modules:
  
  CONVERSION_EXIT_POSTCODE_INPUT - Converts external postal code input to internal format.
  CONVERSION_EXIT_POSTCODE_OUTPUT - Converts internal postal code to external format.
  
  
  
  IMG Path:
  
  SPRO -> Logistics General -> Business Address Services -> Basic Settings -> Define Conversion Routines for Postal Codes
  
  
  
  SAP Notes:
  
  Check SAP Support Portal for notes related to postal code conversion errors (e.g., VG216).
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Cause: Invalid or incorrectly formatted postal code that cannot be converted by the system.
  Solution: Verify and correct postal code format, check and adjust conversion routines, test conversion function modules, and maintain correct master data.
  Related Info: Use transactions OBBS and SE37, check IMG settings, and consult SAP Notes.
  
  
  If you provide the country and the postal code causing the error, I can help you with more specific guidance.