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SERV Material Type in SAP: External Services Explained


Discover the SERV material type in SAP for external service procurement. Learn its features, differences from DIEN, and how to use it with service POs.

βœ… Definition:

SERV is a material type in SAP used to manage external services. Unlike DIEN, which is a generic service material, SERV is more tightly integrated with SAP’s External Services Management (ESM) functionality.

It’s specifically designed to work with service purchase orders and service entry sheets, providing structured service procurement through service specifications.


🧾 Key Characteristics:

Feature Description
Material Type SERV (External Services)
Inventory Management ❌ Not stock-managed
Valuation βœ… Valuated via service entry & posted to expense accounts
Procurement Type External services procurement
Used For Contracted services like consulting, maintenance, construction, etc.
Service Entry Sheet Required (ML81N) to confirm service delivery
Service Specifications Detailed structure of services (outline, quantity, price)
Integration Deeply integrated with SAP MM (Materials Management) and ESM modules

πŸ› οΈ Typical Use Cases:

  • Civil or construction services
  • Outsourced facility or maintenance contracts
  • IT or engineering consultancy
  • Government or public sector tenders

πŸ”§ Common SAP Transactions:

Purpose Transaction Code
Create Service Master Record AC03
Create Service PO ME21N (Item Category = D)
Create Service Entry Sheet ML81N
Maintain Service Specifications AC01, AC02

πŸ”„ Difference Between SERV and DIEN:

Feature SERV (External Services) DIEN (Generic Services)
Master Data Uses Service Master Records Optional/Not required
Entry Sheet βœ… Required (ML81N) βœ… Required (ML81N)
Service Structure Detailed (outline/specs) Flat (single line item)
Used For Structured, contract-based services Simple service procurements
Tightly integrated with ESM? βœ… Yes ❌ No (generic use)

  • DIEN – Generic service materials
  • NLAG – Non-stock consumables
  • ROH – Raw materials
  • FERT – Finished products


🧠 Practice & Progress

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