Unable To Lock Row

The UNABLE_TO_LOCK_ROW error occurs when multiple processes attempt to modify the same Salesforce record simultaneously. This concurrency conflict prevents our integration from successfully writing data to Salesforce.

Common Causes

• Concurrent User Operations - Multiple users editing the same record simultaneously
• Competing Automations - Salesforce workflows, process builders, or apex triggers executing at the same time as the integration sync
• High Volume Data Operations - Batch jobs, data imports, or mass updates running parallel to the integration
• Integration Timing Conflicts - Multiple integration platforms or services attempting to update the same record during a small time window

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Automatic Retry

   The system automatically attempts to retry the sync operation up to three times. This resolves many temporary locking conflicts without further intervention.

2. Review Error Logs

   Navigate to your Account Settings Logs section and filter to display only Salesforce errors. Look for the UNABLE_TO_LOCK_ROW error to identify the specific records experiencing locking issues.

3. Manually Retry the Synchronization

   From the Logs view, select the failed sync operation and click "Retry" to manually trigger another synchronization attempt. This is often successful if the original conflict has resolved.

4. Analyze Salesforce Automation

   Review your Salesforce instance for workflows, process builders, or triggers that may be activating when the integration updates records. These automations may be creating concurrent update operations.

Resolution Strategies

• Stagger Integration Schedules

  If you have multiple integrations or batch processes, adjust their schedules to run at different times to reduce concurrent operations.

• Temporary Workflow Deactivation

  Temporarily disable Salesforce workflows or process builders that may be triggering on the affected records during synchronization testing.

• Manual Retry During Off-Hours

  Retry failed synchronizations during periods of lower system activity to reduce the likelihood of concurrent operations.

For Long-Term Prevention

• Optimize Workflow Triggers

  Modify your Salesforce automation to include conditions that prevent unnecessary record updates or implement a control mechanism to prevent recursive triggers.

• Implement Platform Events

  Consider using Salesforce Platform Events for complex integration scenarios to better manage the sequencing of operations.

• Adjust Batch Sizes

  If the error occurs during mass update operations, consider reducing the batch size to decrease concurrent processing.

Technical Background for Salesforce Administrators

When a record is updated in Salesforce, the platform places a lock on that record to maintain data integrity. If another process attempts to modify the same record before the first operation completes, the UNABLE_TO_LOCK_ROW error is thrown.

In complex Salesforce environments with multiple integrations, workflows, and triggers, these locks can create cascading conflicts, especially when triggers cause additional record updates. As a Salesforce Administrator, understanding the complete automation flow in your instance is crucial for resolving these conflicts.

Need Additional Help?

If you continue to experience UNABLE_TO_LOCK_ROW errors after implementing the troubleshooting steps and resolution strategies above, please:

1. Collect detailed error logs showing the specific records and timing of failures
2. Document any Salesforce automations that interact with the affected records
3. Note any other integration services or batch processes that may be running concurrently
4. Contact our technical support team with this information for advanced troubleshooting assistance