Formal specification · v1.0 · June 2026
The LCAS Standard
The open specification for estimating the cost of accredited product testing in the EU, using the formula FP = BC × CF. Published and maintained by Multicert.
Scope & purpose
LCAS is an open standard for estimating, presenting and comparing the cost of accredited product testing placed on the European Union market. It defines a single formula so that any quotation can be built by a laboratory and read by a client on identical terms. Figures derived under LCAS are indicative net benchmarks, not binding quotations.
Definitions
- Base Cost (BC)
- The intrinsic cost of performing one determination by a given method, before complexity scaling.
- Complexity Factor (CF)
- A dimensionless multiplier (1.0–5.0) reflecting how much a specific job departs from the routine case.
- Sample
- A physical specimen submitted for testing.
- Material variant
- Each distinct material or colour requiring its own determination.
- Determination
- A single analytical measurement of one parameter on one sample or variant.
The formula
The final price of a test is the product of its Base Cost and its Complexity Factor:
Base Cost (BC)
Base Cost is derived from the resources a method consumes, loaded with laboratory overhead:
Complexity Factor (CF)
The Complexity Factor is the product of five dimensions, each scored between 1.0 and 2.0, with the result capped at 5.0:
| D1 | Time criticality | Standard vs rush turnaround · 1.0–2.0 |
| D2 | Equipment & technology | Routine instruments vs specialised chambers/MS · 1.0–2.0 |
| D3 | Labour & expertise | Standard analyst vs senior/specialist effort · 1.0–2.0 |
| D4 | Sample complexity | Number of materials, colours, matrices, prep · 1.0–2.0 |
| D5 | Regulatory & risk | Accreditation scope, witnessed/audited work · 1.0–2.0 |
Multiplier rules
- Samples × variants
- A package price is multiplied by the number of samples and, for chemical tests, by the number of material variants / colourways — each is a separate determination.
- Rush turnaround
- Expedited turnaround applies a surcharge, typically +50%, recorded as a distinct line.
- Order-level fees
- Per-order service or handling fees (commonly ~€97) are stated separately, not folded into BC.
Data-source hierarchy
Where a published Base Cost is required, sources are used in this order of preference: (1) published accredited-laboratory price lists; (2) published broker prices (e.g. Measurlabs); (3) public tender / procurement figures; (4) category ranges from compliance sources; (5) a stated estimate, labelled as such with lower confidence.
Versioning & governance
LCAS is published and maintained by Multicert Sp. z o.o. Each edition carries a version and date. Figures are reviewed at least twice a year and on any material change to a referenced standard or to published market pricing. The current edition is v1.0 (June 2026).
Cite as
LCAS v1.0 — Laboratory Cost Assessment Standard. Multicert Sp. z o.o., 2026. https://lcas.info/standard