Question

Xia Co. currently buys a component part for $5 per unit. Xia believes that making the part would require $2.25 per unit of direct materials and $1.00 per unit of direct labor. Xia allocates overhead using a predetermined overhead rate of 200% of direct labor cost. Xia estimates an incremental overhead rate of $0.75 per unit to make the part. 1-a. What are the relevant costs for Xia to make or buy the part? (Round your answers to 2 decimal places.) 1-b. Should Xia make or buy the part?

Answer 1

Answer:

Xia Co.

1-a. The relevant costs for Xia Co. to make or buy the part:

Direct materials         $2.25

Direct labor                   1.00

Incremental overhead 0.75

Total relevant cost   $4.00

1-b. Xia should make the part.  It will cost Xia $4.00 to make the component while it costs it $5.00 to buy.  It should therefore, make the component.

Explanation:

a) Data and Calculations:

Price of buying component = $5

Cost of making component:

Direct materials         $2.25

Direct labor                   1.00

Incremental overhead 0.75

Total relevant cost    $4.00

b) The relevant cost for making the component is $4.00.  The overhead cost based on 200% direct labor is not a relevant cost.  It is an allocated fixed cost and must be incurred whatever decision is taken.  By making the component, Xia Co. will be netting in a unit contribution of $1 ($5.00 - $4.00) with the alternative of buying.