How To Fix VW249 - Variant valid for inbound shipments (but shipment type is outbound)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VW - Shipment Processing Output

• Message number: 249

• Message text: Variant valid for inbound shipments (but shipment type is outbound)

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

What causes this issue?

The selection variant that you specified applies to inbound shipments.
However, the shipment type is "outbound shipment". This results in
errors in the online transaction (e.g. "Create Shipment" or "Change
Shipment") since the system tries to find inbound deliveries and not
deliveries.

System Response

How to fix this error?

Choose (or create) a variant that applies to outbound shipments.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message VW249 - Variant valid for inbound shipments (but shipment type is outbound) ?

  The SAP error message VW249 indicates that there is a mismatch between the shipment type and the variant that is being used for inbound shipments. Specifically, this error occurs when a variant that is valid for inbound shipments is being applied to an outbound shipment.
  Cause:
  
  Variant Configuration: The variant you are trying to use is configured for inbound shipments, but you are attempting to use it in the context of an outbound shipment.
  Shipment Type Mismatch: The shipment type defined in the system does not match the type of the variant being applied. For example, if the shipment type is set to "Outbound" but the variant is set for "Inbound," this error will occur.
  Incorrect Assignment: The variant may have been incorrectly assigned or selected in the shipment processing transaction.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Variant Configuration: Review the configuration of the variant in the system. Ensure that it is set up correctly for the intended shipment type (inbound or outbound).
  Select Correct Variant: If you are processing an outbound shipment, make sure to select a variant that is valid for outbound shipments. You may need to create a new variant if one does not exist.
  Review Shipment Type: Verify the shipment type you are working with. Ensure that it aligns with the variant you are trying to use.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's SAP guidelines to understand the correct setup and usage of variants for shipments.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like VT01N (Create Shipment), VT02N (Change Shipment), or VT03N (Display Shipment) to manage shipments.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on handling shipment variants.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access and modify shipment variants in the system.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in logistics and shipment processing.