Prime Cost

Finance

Quick Definition

Prime Cost is the direct cost of producing goods or services, including raw materials and direct labor.

Detailed Explanation

Prime Cost represents the core production expenses that can be directly traced to the manufacturing of a product. It excludes indirect costs like rent, utilities, and administrative expenses.

It is widely used in cost accounting and pricing decisions.

Formula

👉 Prime Cost = Direct Materials + Direct Labor

Components of Prime Cost

  • Direct Materials: Raw materials used in production
  • Direct Labor: Wages of workers directly involved in production

Why Prime Cost Matters

  • Helps in cost control
  • Assists in pricing products
  • Measures production efficiency

Prime Cost vs Conversion Cost

  • Prime Cost: Materials + Labor
  • Conversion Cost: Labor + Overheads

Example

"<ul > <li >Raw materials = ₹50,000</li> <li >Direct labor = ₹30,000</li> </ul> <p >👉 Prime Cost = ₹80,000</p>"

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