Preparation of Cost Sheet and Statement of Cost

Preparation of Cost Sheet and Statement of Cost

Cost Sheet

Definition: A cost sheet is a comprehensive document that provides detailed information about the costs incurred during the production of goods or services over a specific period. It helps in calculating the total cost of production and the cost per unit of output.

Objectives:

  • Determine Total and Per-Unit Costs: Helps in calculating both the total cost of production and the cost per unit, essential for pricing and budgeting.
  • Price Setting: Assists in setting the selling price by including a profit margin on the cost per unit.
  • Cost Comparison: Facilitates comparison of current costs with historical costs to identify trends and deviations.
  • Production Policy: Aids in formulating production strategies and policies based on cost analysis.
  • Price Quotations: Useful in preparing detailed price quotations for tenders and contracts.
  • Management Control: Provides critical information for management to control costs and make informed decisions.

Preparation Method:

  • Prime Cost:
    • Direct Material: Cost of raw materials directly used in the production of the product.
    • Direct Labor: Wages and salaries paid to workers directly involved in the production process.
    • Direct Expenses: Expenses directly attributable to the production, such as special tools or equipment.
  • Formula: Prime Cost = Direct Material 
+Direct Labor+Direct Expenses
  • Works Cost:
    • Factory Overheads: Indirect manufacturing costs that cannot be traced directly to specific products, such as factory rent, utilities, and machinery depreciation.
  • Formula: Works Cost=Prime Cost + Factory Overheads
  • Cost of Production:
    • Administrative Expenses: Costs related to office administration, such as office rent, salaries of administrative staff, and office supplies.
  • Formula: Cost of Production =  
Works Cost+Administrative Expenses
  • Total Cost:
    • Selling and Distribution Overheads: Costs associated with selling and distributing the product, including marketing expenses, sales commissions, and distribution costs.
  • Formula
Total Cost = Cost of Production 
+Selling and Distribution Overheads
    • Profit Calculation: Profit is calculated as the difference between sales and total cost.
  • Formula: Profit = Sales − Total Cost

Example Layout:

Cost Component Direct Costs Indirect Costs Total Costs
Raw Materials $X $X
Direct Labor $Y $Y
Direct Expenses $Z $Z
Factory Overheads $A $A
Administrative Overheads $B $B
Selling & Distribution $C $C
Total Cost of Production $X + $Y + $Z $A + $B + $C $Total

Statement of Cost

Definition: A statement of cost is a summarized document that provides an overview of costs incurred over a specific period, often used for internal reporting and analysis.

Preparation Method:

  • Opening Inventory: Include the value of inventory from the beginning of the period if applicable.
  • Add Total Costs: Summarize all direct and indirect costs incurred during the period.
  • Subtract Closing Inventory: Deduct the value of ending inventory to determine the cost of goods sold (COGS).
  • Formula: Cost of Goods Sold = Total Cost Incurred−Closing Inventory
  • Calculate Other Metrics:
    • Cost per Unit Produced: Determine the cost associated with producing each unit of output.
    • Cost per Unit Sold: Calculate the cost associated with each unit sold.

Example Layout:

Cost Metrics Amount ($)
Opening Inventory (if any) $X
Total Cost Incurred $Total
Less: Closing Inventory ($Y)
Cost of Goods Sold $Cost_of_Goods_Sold
Cost per Unit Produced $Cost_per_Unit_Produced
Cost per Unit Sold $Cost_per_Unit_Sold

Important Considerations:

  • Accuracy: Ensure accurate recording and allocation of costs to reflect the true cost structure.
  • Regular Updates: Periodically update cost sheets and statements to capture changes in cost structures and operational efficiencies.
  • Allocation Methods: Use appropriate methods for allocating indirect costs to avoid distortions in cost reporting.

By preparing and analyzing cost sheets and statements of cost, businesses can effectively manage their costs, set appropriate pricing strategies, and make informed decisions to enhance profitability and operational efficiency.