T-SQL Tutorial

Msg 8152 Level 16 - String or binary data would be truncated


On Transact SQL language the Msg 8152 Level 16 - String or binary data would be truncated means that the length of the insert value is greater than the length of column. This error message is generated when there is an attempt to insert, update, or manipulate data in a table, and the operation would result in a truncation of string or binary data.

Common scenarios that trigger this error include:

Inserting Data: When inserting data into a table, if the length of a string or binary value exceeds the maximum allowed length for a particular column, this error occurs. For instance, trying to insert a 50-character string into a column defined as VARCHAR(30).
Updating Data: When updating existing records in a table, if the new data to be set is longer than the existing data in a column, it can lead to this error. For example, if you attempt to update a column with a new value that exceeds its data type's defined length.

To resolve this error, consider the following solutions:

Adjust the Column Length: Ensure that the column's data type and length can accommodate the data you want to insert or update. You may need to increase the column's length to accommodate the longer data.
Trim or Modify Data: If you cannot change the column length, you should modify or truncate the data before inserting or updating. This might involve using functions like LEFT, SUBSTRING, or LTRIM to ensure the data fits within the column's constraints.
Review Your Data: Double-check the data you are working with to ensure that it is as expected. Sometimes, errors like this can occur due to data anomalies or discrepancies.
Use Parameterized Queries: If you're using dynamic SQL or constructing queries in your application code, consider using parameterized queries to prevent issues related to data truncation. Parameterized queries ensure that data is properly formatted for insertion.


Msg 8152 Level 16 Example:

We have the table TEST:

USE model;
GO
CREATE TABLE TEST(
   ID INT NOT NULL PRIMARY KEY,
   NAME VARCHAR(10) NOT NULL );
GO





Invalid insert:

USE model;
GO
INSERT INTO TEST(id, name) VALUES (1, 'Olivia Wilson');
GO

Message
Msg 8152, Level 16, State 14, Line 1
String or binary data would be truncated. The statement has been terminated.

Correct insert:

USE model;
GO
INSERT INTO TEST(id, name) VALUES (1, 'Olivia');
GO

Message
(1 row(s) affected)

In conclusion, Msg 8152, Level 16, is an error message encountered in SQL Server, indicating that an operation would result in string or binary data being truncated. It's important to review your table schema and data to ensure they are compatible and make necessary adjustments to avoid data loss or data corruption.


Other error messages: