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Bill of materials

A bill of materials identifies the materials and quantities required for a specified product or assembly. It supports purchasing, production, standard costing and material-issue control. The record should distinguish net content from allowances for normal waste and should be updated for authorised design changes. It is a technical resource specification rather than a supplier invoice or proof that the materials have actually been issued or consumed.

Worked example

A product specification requires two metres of material A and four components B per unit, with any normal-loss allowance stated separately.

Common mistake

Do not double-count wastage if the standard input quantity already includes it, or use an outdated specification after a design change.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA MA Direct September 2026–June 2027
FIA FMA Direct September 2026–June 2027