Skip to main content

Scrap

Scrap is residual production material with minimal salvage value, such as metal off-cuts or fabric trimmings. Net proceeds from selling scrap reduce manufacturing overhead or the cost of the specific job that produced it.

ByHoang TruongUpdated

See it move

Loading infographic...

When off-cuts from Job 88 sell for €150 net, that amount reduces Job 88's own cost, benefiting the customer who ordered it. When scrap cannot be traced to one job, such as €400 of mixed trimmings, the net proceeds are credited to manufacturing overhead instead, spreading the benefit across all production. Traceability alone decides which treatment applies.

Where it fits
SubjectCost AccountingAdvancedTopicJob & Process CostingAdvancedTopicJoint Products, By-Products & SpoilageAdvanced

Check yourself

PracticeCORE

A timber workshop's CNC cutting machines leave off-cuts each month with a reliable scrap sale value of €800. The off-cuts cannot be traced to any specific customer job. How should the €800 monthly scrap proceeds be treated in the accounts?

Select an answer to check your understanding.
Scrap — Edlintics Glossary