1. Home
  2. Business & Finance
  3. Management

TCO

By F. John Reh, About.com

Definition: TCO is an abbreviation for Total Cost of Ownership. It is a calculation designed to help people make more informed financial decisions. Rather than just looking at the purchase price of an object, TCO looks at the complete cost from purchase to disposal.

See more at Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Also Known As: total cost of ownership
Examples: A less expensive asset that requires high maintenance and support may have a higher TCO than a more expensive asset that doesn't need as much support.
Explore Management
About.com Special Features

Start your new business on the right foot with these helpful tips. More >

Easy steps to take control of your credit card debt. More >

  1. Home
  2. Business & Finance
  3. Management
  4. Managing Costs
  5. TCO

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.