Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) Practice Test

What term describes materials that are no longer needed by the current owner but are designated for transfer to another unit within the entity?

1. Surplus

2. Excess

3. Obsolete

4. Deficient

The correct answer is: Excess

The term that accurately describes materials that are no longer needed by the current owner but are designated for transfer to another unit within the entity is "surplus." When items are identified as surplus, it indicates that they still have utility or value, but are not required by the current holder. These items may be transferred to another department or unit that can utilize them effectively, rather than being discarded or deemed wasteful. Excess materials typically refer to items that exceed the current needs but may not necessarily be transferable at that moment, while obsolete materials are those that are outdated or no longer usable in any context. Deficient materials signify a lack or shortfall, contrasting with the concept of having surplus items. Thus, the term "surplus" encompasses the idea of reallocation within an organization, ensuring that resources are efficiently utilized across different units.