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How To Fix W_DFE021 - Item for material &1 is planned externally according to MRP type


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: W_DFE - Messages for Function Group WDFE

  • Message number: 021

  • Message text: Item for material &1 is planned externally according to MRP type

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W_DFE021 - Item for material &1 is planned externally according to MRP type ?

    Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message:


    SAP Error Message:

    W_DFE021: Item for material &1 is planned externally according to MRP type


    Meaning / Cause:

    This warning message indicates that the material in question is set up with an MRP type that designates it as externally planned. This means that the material's procurement or production is planned outside of the SAP system's internal MRP run. For example, the material might be planned manually, or by an external system, or it might be procured directly without internal planning.

    Common MRP types that cause this behavior include:

    • ND (No planning)
    • VB (Manual reorder point planning)
    • X0 (External procurement)
    • X1 (External planning)

    When you try to perform certain MRP-related activities (like running MRP or creating planned orders) for such a material, SAP issues this warning to inform you that the system expects no internal planning for this material.


    When does this message appear?

    • When running MRP or creating planned orders for a material whose MRP type is set to external planning.
    • When trying to create or change procurement proposals for such materials.
    • During MRP runs or stock/requirements list processing.

    Solution / How to resolve:

    1. Check the MRP type of the material:

      • Use transaction MM02 (Change Material) or MM03 (Display Material).
      • Go to the MRP 1 view.
      • Check the MRP type field.
    2. If internal planning is required:

      • Change the MRP type to an internal planning type such as PD (MRP), VB (manual reorder point), or other appropriate MRP types.
      • Save the changes.
      • Re-run MRP or the relevant process.
    3. If external planning is intended:

      • No action is needed; this is just a warning.
      • Understand that SAP will not create planned orders or procurement proposals automatically.
      • Procurement or production must be managed manually or via external systems.
    4. Check procurement type:

      • In the MRP 1 view, also check the procurement type (in-house production or external procurement).
      • Ensure it aligns with your planning strategy.

    Additional Information:

    • MRP Type controls how the material is planned in SAP.
    • External planning means SAP expects procurement or production to be handled outside the MRP run.
    • This warning helps avoid confusion when no planned orders or procurement proposals are generated.
    • If you want SAP to plan the material automatically, ensure the MRP type supports internal planning.
    • This message is a warning (W_), not an error, so it does not stop processing but informs the user.

    Summary Table:

    Aspect Details
    Message ID W_DFE021
    Message Text Item for material &1 is planned externally according to MRP type
    Cause Material MRP type is set to external planning
    Effect No planned orders or procurement proposals generated by MRP
    Solution Change MRP type to internal planning type if internal planning is needed
    Transaction to check MM02 / MM03 (Material Master)

    If you want, I can also help you with the exact steps to change the MRP type or interpret your material master data. Just let me know!

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