Account Information

Financial Statement Income Statement
Normal Balance Debit

Definition

The direct costs associated with the purchase or production of goods that have been sold during the financial period. This cost includes goods purchases, freight-in, customs duties, and is reduced by purchase returns and purchase discounts. This cost is matched with commercial revenue to determine the gross profit (or loss) from commercial activity.

📐 IFRS vs US GAAP Accounting Treatment

IFRS IAS 2 Inventories
US GAAP ASC 330 Inventory

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)?

A: Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) is the direct costs associated with the goods that have been sold during the period, including: purchase cost of goods, freight-in, customs duties, and is reduced by purchase returns and purchase discounts. It is matched with revenue to determine gross profit.

Q: How is Gross Profit calculated?

A: Gross Profit = Net Revenue - Cost of Goods Sold. Net Revenue = Gross Sales - Discounts Allowed - Sales Returns. Gross Profit represents profit before deducting operating, administrative, financing expenses, and taxes.

Q: What is the difference between Cost of Goods Sold and Purchases?

A: Purchases is the total value of goods bought during the period, while Cost of Goods Sold = Beginning Inventory + Purchases - Ending Inventory. The difference represents the change in inventory. If inventory increases, COGS is less than purchases, and vice versa.

Q: How is Cost of Goods Sold calculated in a trading company?

A: In a trading company, Cost of Goods Sold = Beginning Inventory + Net Purchases - Ending Inventory. Net Purchases = Purchases + Freight-In + Customs Duties - Purchase Returns - Purchase Discounts.

Q: What elements are included in cost of goods sold?

A: Beginning inventory + Net purchases (purchases + freight-in - returns - discounts) - Ending inventory. Does not include administrative or selling expenses.

Q: How does inventory valuation method (FIFO or average) affect cost of sales?

A: In periods of rising prices, FIFO gives lower cost of sales (higher profit) than weighted average. In periods of falling prices, the opposite is true.