Q. What is Net realizable value?

Companies must not carry goods in inventory at more than their net realizable value. Net realizable value is the approximate selling price of an item less the estimated costs that the company incurs in preparing the item for sale and selling it. Obsolete, Damaged or shopworn goods often have a net realizable value lower than their historical cost and must be written down to their net realizable value. But goods don't have to be obsolete, damaged or shopworn for this situation to occur.

Technological changes as well as increased competition have caused significant reductions in selling prices for such products as DVD players, computers, TVs and digital cameras.