SAP 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).
To create a purchase order, open ME21N, choose the order type and enter the vendor, add item lines with material or short text, quantity, plant and delivery date, check the pricing conditions and the account assignment for stock or consumption, and save. The number is assigned and, where configured, the order enters a release strategy for approval before issue.
- This guide shows how to create one in SAP GUI (ME21N).
- Watch out: the account assignment decides whether this becomes stock or somebody cost, and it is not easily changed.
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.