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Direct material

Direct material is material whose cost can be traced economically to a particular product or job. Record issues from stores to the relevant work or cost object using the specified material cost formula. Materials used generally across the factory, or too minor to trace economically, may instead be indirect materials within overhead. Direct material cost is part of prime cost; it is distinct from purchasing cash paid and from inventory still unused.

Worked example

A table uses four metres of timber costing $8 per metre, giving $32 direct material cost. General cleaning supplies for the workshop are indirect.

Common mistake

Direct material means traceable material, not every item purchased by the factory. Record unused materials as inventory rather than automatically charging a job.

Where it appears in your exams

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