How To Fix W+581 - Only enter items if one single area is selected

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W+ -

• Message number: 581

• Message text: Only enter items if one single area is selected

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W+581 - Only enter items if one single area is selected ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  W+581 – Only enter items if one single area is selected
  
  Cause:
  This warning message appears when you try to enter items in a transaction or report that requires the selection of exactly one single area (such as a sales area, plant, storage location, or similar organizational unit), but multiple areas or no area at all have been selected.
  In other words, the system expects a single, unambiguous area to process the entered items correctly. If multiple areas are selected, the system cannot determine where to assign the items, leading to this warning.
  
  When does it occur?
  
  During data entry in transactions or reports that are area-specific.
  For example, in sales order processing, delivery processing, inventory postings, or reporting where the system requires a single sales area (Sales Organization + Distribution Channel + Division).
  When entering line items or details that must be linked to a unique organizational area.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  Select exactly one single area before entering items.
  
  For example, if the transaction requires a single sales area, ensure you select only one combination of Sales Organization, Distribution Channel, and Division.
  Check your selection criteria in the initial screen or selection screen and restrict it to one area.
  If multiple areas are needed, you may need to process them separately or use a different transaction/report that supports multiple areas.
  Review the transaction documentation or consult with your SAP functional consultant to understand the correct selection criteria.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  This message is a warning (W), not an error, so you may be able to proceed, but it is recommended to correct the selection to avoid inconsistent or incorrect data processing.
  The message is often encountered in modules like SD (Sales and Distribution), MM (Materials Management), or WM (Warehouse Management) where organizational units are critical.
  Check SAP Notes or documentation related to the specific transaction code you are using for more detailed guidance.
  Example SAP Note or message documentation can be found in the SAP Message Class documentation (e.g., message class W+5xx).
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Message
  W+581 Only enter items if one single area is selected
  
  
  Cause
  Multiple or no areas selected where only one is allowed
  
  
  Solution
  Restrict selection to exactly one area before entering items
  
  
  Module
  Common in SD, MM, WM, or other area-specific modules
  
  
  Type
  Warning (can proceed but not recommended)
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact transaction code or context, I can help with more specific instructions.