How To Fix VMP_MSG358 - Reference Designator '&1' already assigned to &2

VMP_MSG358 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VMP_MSG - VMP Message Manager

• Message number: 358

• Message text: Reference Designator '&1' already assigned to &2

What causes this issue?

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

System Response

The Reference Designator already exists for other BOM instances.

How to fix this error?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message VMP_MSG358 - Reference Designator '&1' already assigned to &2 ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message:
  
  SAP Error Message:
  VMP_MSG358: Reference Designator '&1' already assigned to &2
  
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs in the SAP Variant Configuration (LO-VC) or Plant Maintenance (PM) context when you try to assign a Reference Designator (also called a Ref Des) to a functional location, equipment, or object, but the same Reference Designator is already assigned to another object.
  
  The Reference Designator is intended to uniquely identify a component or part within a structure or assembly.
  The system enforces uniqueness of Reference Designators within a certain scope (e.g., within a functional location or equipment).
  When you attempt to assign a Reference Designator that is already in use, the system throws this error to prevent duplicate assignments.
  
  
  Explanation of the Message Variables:
  
  &1 = The Reference Designator you tried to assign.
  &2 = The object (equipment, functional location, or component) to which the Reference Designator is already assigned.
  
  
  Typical Scenarios:
  
  Assigning a Reference Designator to