How To Fix WRF_MATERIAL021 - Target and source materials are identical

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Target and source materials are identical

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_MATERIAL021 - Target and source materials are identical ?

  The SAP error message WRF_MATERIAL021, which states "Target and source materials are identical," typically occurs in the context of material master data management, particularly when trying to create or change material data in a way that involves copying or transferring information from one material to another.
  Cause:
  This error arises when the system detects that the target material (the material you are trying to create or modify) is the same as the source material (the material from which you are trying to copy data). This can happen in scenarios such as:
  
  Attempting to copy data from a material to itself.
  Using a transaction that requires a source and target material, but both are set to the same value.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Material Numbers: Ensure that you are using different material numbers for the source and target materials. Verify that the target material number is not the same as the source material number.
  
  
  Review Transaction Steps: If you are using a specific transaction (like creating a new material or copying material data), double-check the steps to ensure that you are not inadvertently selecting the same material for both source and target.
  
  
  Use Correct Functionality: If you intended to copy data from one material to another, make sure to select a different target material that does not match the source material.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the process, refer to SAP documentation or help resources related to material master data management for guidance on the correct procedures.
  
  
  Check User Input: If the error occurs during a batch process or automated script, review the input parameters to ensure that they are set correctly and that there are no programming errors leading to the same material being referenced.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Common transaction codes related to material master data include MM01 (Create Material), MM02 (Change Material), and MM03 (Display Material).
  Material Master Views: Understand the different views of the material master (basic data, sales data, purchasing data, etc.) to ensure you are working with the correct data.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or Knowledge Base Articles that may provide additional insights or updates related to this error message.
  
  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 material management for further assistance.