Oracle Database / SQL & PL/SQL Errors
ORA-12899: compare character length with byte capacity
A value that fits by visible characters may exceed a byte-limited column when multibyte text is stored. Inspect the destination's length semantics.
Environment and inputs: Oracle Database 19c baseline · SQL*Plus-compatible SQL unless RMAN, DGMGRL, ADRCI or a host shell is specified. Check release, patch level, edition and container first.
Start with this diagnostic
Use the stated SQL, RMAN, DGMGRL or host shell and replace sample names with approved targets. DBA and V$ views need authorized catalog access in the correct container. Do not grant broad privileges for an example.
SELECT column_name, data_length, char_length, char_used FROM all_tab_columns WHERE owner = 'APP_OWNER' AND table_name = 'APP_CUSTOMERS';Read the result
DATA_LENGTH is byte capacity; CHAR_LENGTH and CHAR_USED help interpret character semantics. The failing bind may need byte-length inspection without exposing its contents.
Resolve and verify
Align application validation with the real column semantics and database character set. Review any approved column expansion with dependent indexes and integrations.
Operational precautions
Do not truncate names or business text silently to force an insert to succeed.