How To Fix WRF_MATERIAL020 - Material & already exists; you can only extend it

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WRF_MATERIAL - Additional Messages for Material Master (Retail)

• Message number: 020

• Message text: Material & already exists; you can only extend it

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WRF_MATERIAL020 - Material & already exists; you can only extend it ?

  The SAP error message WRF_MATERIAL020 indicates that the material you are trying to create already exists in the system, and therefore, you can only extend it rather than create a new one. This error typically occurs in the context of material master data management within the SAP system, particularly in the SAP Retail module.
  Cause:
  
  Material Already Exists: The primary cause of this error is that the material number you are trying to create is already present in the system. This can happen if:
  
  You are attempting to create a new material with a number that has already been assigned to an existing material.
  You are trying to create a material in a different view or plant that is already defined for that material.
  
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Material:
  
  Use transaction code MM03 (Display Material) to check if the material number already exists in the system.
  If it exists, review the details to ensure it meets your requirements.
  
  
  
  Extend the Material:
  
  If you need to add additional views or data to the existing material, use transaction code MM01 (Create Material) and select the option to extend the material.
  Enter the existing material number and choose the views or organizational levels (like plant or sales organization) you want to extend.
  
  
  
  Use the Correct Material Number:
  
  If you intended to create a new material, ensure you are using a unique material number that does not conflict with existing materials.
  
  
  
  Consult with Your Team:
  
  If you are unsure about the material's status or need to create a new one, consult with your team or the person responsible for material master data management.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  MM01: Create Material
  MM02: Change Material
  MM03: Display Material
  MM04: Display Material Changes
  MM06: Flag Material for Deletion
  
  
  
  Material Master Views: Understand the different views of the material master (Basic Data, Sales, Purchasing, Accounting, etc.) to know what data you might need to extend.
  
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed guidance on material master data management and the implications of extending materials.
  
  
  User Authorizations: Ensure you have the necessary authorizations to create or extend materials in the SAP system.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the WRF_MATERIAL020 error and manage your material master data effectively.