An unfavorable materials quantity variance occurs when the actual quantity used in production is less than the standard quantity allowed for the actual output of the period.

Materials Quantity Variance

The difference between the actual quantity of materials used in production and the standard quantity allowed for the actual output, multiplied by the standard price per unit of materials.

Actual Quantity

The real amount or number of units of materials, labor, or overhead used in the production process.

Standard Quantity

The predetermined amount of materials or resources expected to be used in the production of a product.