SAP how-to guides · LessonBy Anitha M, SAP Trainer, 13 yrs · Published · SAP S/4HANA 2023 · all levels
Create purchase order
A purchase order (PO) is the formal document ordering goods/services from a vendor. This guide shows how to create one in SAP GUI (ME21N).
Quick answer
Ensure the material and vendor master data exist and are complete.
Key takeaways
- Select the order type (e.g. standard PO) and enter the vendor.
- Add item lines: material (or short text), quantity, plant, delivery date.
- This guide shows how to create one in SAP GUI (ME21N).
- Watch out: Following steps without understanding the concept.
Step by step
- Enter transaction
ME21N. - Select the order type (e.g. standard PO) and enter the vendor.
- Add item lines: material (or short text), quantity, plant, delivery date.
- Check pricing/conditions and the account assignment (stock vs consumption).
- Save; the PO number is assigned and (if configured) it enters a release strategy.
Notes and tips
Ensure the material and vendor master data exist and are complete. For consumables, set the correct account assignment (cost center/order). If a release strategy applies, the PO must be approved before it can be issued. In Fiori, use the "Create Purchase Order" app for the same task.
Common pitfalls
- Following steps without understanding the concept.
- Skipping testing in a non-production system.
- Applying blindly to a different scenario.
Practice challenge
+0 XPStreak ×0
Question 1 of 3
Which statement is true of Create purchase order?
Frequently asked questions
What does the term Create purchase order refer to in SAP?
A purchase order (PO) is the formal document ordering goods/services from a vendor. This guide shows how to create one in SAP GUI (ME21N).
Which transaction codes come up with Create purchase order?
Enter transaction ME21N. Select the order type (e.g. standard PO) and enter the vendor. Add item lines: material (or short text), quantity, plant, delivery date.
What else is worth knowing about Create purchase order?
Ensure the material and vendor master data exist and are complete.
What tends to go wrong with Create purchase order?
Following steps without understanding the concept. Skipping testing in a non-production system. Applying blindly to a different scenario.