The sequence_generator_limit_exceeded error appears when a PostgreSQL sequence reaches its MAXVALUE and cannot generate additional numbers because NO CYCLE is set.
sequence_generator_limit_exceeded means a PostgreSQL sequence hit its MAXVALUE and, with NO CYCLE, can’t issue new values. Raise MAXVALUE, remove the limit, or RESTART the sequence to resolve the failure.
sequence_generator_limit_exceeded
PostgreSQL returns SQLSTATE 2200H with the message “nextval: reached maximum value of sequence” when a sequence object can no longer supply a new value because the current value equals its MAXVALUE and NO CYCLE is in effect.
The failure happens during INSERT, COPY, or explicit nextval() calls tied to the exhausted sequence.
PostgreSQL aborts the statement before writing data, protecting primary-key uniqueness.
While the error persists, every write that depends on the sequence will fail, halting new records and causing application downtime. Prompt remediation restores normal insert throughput.
Low MAXVALUE settings, heavy insert rates, manual setval() misuse, or choosing a small integer type can deplete the available range faster than expected.
Detailed causes appear below.
Plans include increasing MAXVALUE, dropping the MAXVALUE clause, restarting the sequence to a lower unused value, or recreating it with BIGINT.
Choose the safest option for your data model.
Create BIGINT sequences by default, monitor remaining headroom, avoid setting values near the limit, and automate alerts for high-traffic tables.
Other sequence issues include duplicate key violations from out-of-sync sequences and undefined_sequence errors after accidental drops. See the Related Errors section for fixes.
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The current value equals MAXVALUE and NO CYCLE prevents wrap-around, immediately triggering SQLSTATE 2200H.
SMALLINT or INT sequences exhaust quickly in high-volume environments, especially when MAXVALUE mirrors the datatype’s upper bound.
COPY or multi-row INSERT statements can consume thousands of sequence numbers in seconds, pushing the sequence past its limit.
Calling setval() to a value near MAXVALUE leaves little or no room for nextval() to advance, causing immediate failure.
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Query pg_sequences, calculate max_value - last_value, and alert when the gap falls below a threshold.
Yes, ALTER SEQUENCE is transactional and quick. Verify that downstream systems can handle larger integer sizes before applying.
You can add CYCLE, but be sure no existing row shares the recycled value or primary-key collisions will result.
Galaxy’s AI copilot warns when sequences approach their limit and suggests ALTER SEQUENCE commands directly in the editor, reducing downtime risk.
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