How To Fix WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS031 - The "Valid from" date & cannot be earlier than today's date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS - Message for Errors in Material Screens

• Message number: 031

• Message text: The "Valid from" date & cannot be earlier than today's date

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS031 - The "Valid from" date & cannot be earlier than today's date ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS031
  
  Text: The "Valid from" date cannot be earlier than today's date.
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you try to enter or maintain an article (material) with a "Valid From" date that is set to a date earlier than the current system date (today's date). SAP enforces that the validity start date for certain master data (like articles/materials) cannot be backdated to prevent inconsistencies in data validity and transactional processing.
  
  Explanation:
  
  The "Valid From" date defines the start date from which the article or its data is considered valid.
  Setting this date in the past (before today's date) is not allowed in the system configuration or business rules, as it may cause issues with reporting, inventory management, or pricing.
  This validation is often part of the article master data maintenance or related screens in SAP Retail or Logistics modules.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Enter a Valid "Valid From" Date:
  
  Change the "Valid From" date to today's date or a future date.
  Ensure that the date is not earlier than the current system date.
  
  
  
  Check System Date:
  
  Verify the system date (transaction SCU3 or STZAC) to ensure it is correct.
  If the system date is incorrect, coordinate with your Basis team to correct it.
  
  
  
  Review Customizing Settings:
  
  In some cases, the validation logic might be controlled by a user exit, BAdI, or configuration.
  Check if there are any custom validations or enhancements that enforce this rule.
  If business requirements allow, these validations can be adjusted by developers or consultants.
  
  
  
  If Backdating is Required:
  
  If your business process requires backdating, discuss with your SAP functional consultant or Basis team.
  They may need to adjust the validation logic or provide a workaround.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Module: SAP Retail (Article Master), Logistics, or Material Management.
  Transaction Codes: Article master maintenance transactions (e.g., MM01, MM02, or Retail-specific transactions).
  User Exits / BAdIs: Check for enhancements like EXIT_SAPLMGMM_001 or Retail-specific BAdIs that might enforce date validations.
  SAP Notes: Search SAP Service Marketplace for notes related to WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS031 or date validations in article master data.
  System Date: The system date is usually set by the Basis team and should reflect the current date.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Cause: "Valid From" date entered is earlier than today's date.
  Solution: Enter a "Valid From" date that is today or later; verify system date; check for custom validations.
  Additional: Consult SAP notes or your SAP support team if backdating is a business requirement.
  
  
  If you need help with a specific transaction or module, please provide more details!