How To Fix VSB311 - External transfer &1 already used

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VSB - Self-Billing Procedure Messages

• Message number: 311

• Message text: External transfer &1 already used

What causes this issue?

The external transfer &V1& has already been used in the internal
transfer &V2& of &V3&.
This transfer however can no longer be assigned to this IDoc.

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

System Response

The IDoc is assigned to a new internal transfer number. For reasons of
security, this transfer is deactivated so that the processing step
cannot be executed. You should now check if the transfer was really sent
twice.
The process, if this is an example of a transfer that has NOT been sent
twice (duplicate) is described below.

How to fix this error?

Check whether this is an example of a duplicate.
If not, you can make settings for the "Duplicate check" in Customizing
(transaction OVD5) so that this is only executed for a specific time in
the past. This is intended if the EDI partner resets external transfer
numbers each year.
In the case that there is no duplicate transfer (the external transfer
number was used last year for example, and now leads to a "false"
duplicate result), you have to proceed as follows:
Set the transfer to active with the function "Set transfer active".
Start the verification step again. The error message that a duplicate
exists, no longer appears.
Eliminate other possible verification errors and then start the
processing step.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message VSB311 - External transfer &1 already used ?

  The SAP error message VSB311 "External transfer &1 already used" typically occurs in the context of handling external transfers in the SAP system, particularly in the area of logistics or inventory management. This error indicates that the external transfer number (denoted by &1) has already been utilized in a previous transaction, and therefore cannot be used again for a new transaction.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Transfer Number: The external transfer number you are trying to use has already been assigned to another transaction, which means it cannot be reused.
  System Configuration: There may be settings in the system that prevent the reuse of external transfer numbers for certain types of transactions.
  Data Integrity Issues: There could be issues with data integrity or transaction logs that are causing the system to incorrectly identify the transfer number as already used.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Transfer Number: Verify the external transfer number you are trying to use. Ensure that it is indeed unique and has not been used in any previous transactions.
  Use a New Transfer Number: If the transfer number is already in use, generate a new external transfer number for your transaction.
  Review Transaction Logs: Check the transaction logs or history to see where the transfer number has been used. This can help you understand why it is marked as already used.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or configuration settings related to external transfers to ensure that you are following the correct procedures.
  Contact Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in SAP that deal with external transfers, such as MB1A, MB1B, or others depending on your specific use case.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message, as they may provide additional insights or patches that could resolve the issue.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to perform the transaction you are attempting, as lack of permissions can sometimes lead to unexpected errors.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the VSB311 error and proceed with your external transfer transactions in SAP.