The following error occurs when you import either a full package or a single report using the ImportMetadata Batch Tool:

The import process has failed. Maximum attribute size limit (10000000) exceeded.

The issue is reproducible both through the batch tool and through SAS^® Management Console.

Here is an extract from the log:

INFO - Log file to be created: Import_251210141857.log
INFO - Current time: December 10, 2025 at 2:18:57 PM CET
INFO - Username: douhun
INFO - Target metadata server: sasbitest.sas.com (Port: 8561)
INFO - Objects from package "sasdemo.spk" are being imported.
INFO - Objects are being imported to "/User Folders/Doug/My Folder".
INFO - Package file version: 9300
INFO - Replacement properties are being loaded.
INFO - File with replacement properties was loaded from the package.
INFO - The original replacement values are being applied.
INFO - Importing only new objects.
INFO - ******** Analyzing dependencies ********
INFO - Report objects are being analyzed.
INFO - ******** Analyzing dependencies ********
INFO - Report objects are being analyzed.
INFO - ******** Starting import process ********
INFO - Connection points are being resolved.
INFO - The following objects will be imported:
Creating 1 folder object:
/User Folders/Doug/My Folder/ABC
...
INFO - The following connection mappings were specified:
2 Information Map mappings:
...
INFO - ******** Importing metadata ********
ERROR - Error importing metadata. Reason: Maximum attribute size limit (10000000) exceeded
INFO - The import process completed with errors.

Cause

An attribute limit of 10,000,000 exists in the SAS that is not configurable.

This restriction is intentionally enforced to help detect runaway conditions such as infinite loops or corruption within attribute values.

Workaround

Method One: Improve the Export Strategy

To circumvent this issue, do the following to improve the export strategy:

• Use ExportPackage in a way that ensures package creation completes within approximately 60 seconds, reducing the likelihood of oversized attributes or bottlenecks.
• Segment large metadata exports into smaller, modular packages.
• Perform test imports regularly to verify package integrity and detect issues early.