How Much Does a Cuttlefish Cost?

Cuttlefish are known to be great hunters, taking down prey three times their size.  Because of this hunting ability, most experts recommend you don’t keep other fish in the same aquarium.

“Cuttlefish” (CC BY 2.0) by  Cocayhi

 How much does a cuttlefish cost?

On average, plan on budgeting around $120 to as much as $250 for a half-grown cuttlefish about five inches long.  The cost will depend on the size and where you purchase it.  Eggs and cuttlefish, smaller than one-half of an inch, can cost as little as $15 to $25 each, however.

Flamboyant cuttlefish, which can be very hard to find for sale, can cost as much as $75 per egg or up to $300 for one less than three months old.

LiveAquaria.com, for example, offers a one to two-and-a-half-inch aquacultured cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) for $150.

Paradise Pet Shop in Wake Village, Texas, offers cuttlefish in groups that can range anywhere from $25 to as much as $1,500.  200 eggs will retail for close to $1,500 while 10 eggs can cost $85.

Those who are looking to purchase the cuttlefish as food should be prepared to spend around the same price as calamari and squid.  On average, this can be around $5 to $13 per pound.

Cuttlefish overview

A cuttlefish, even though it has the term “fish” inside of its name isn’t actually a fish, but rather, a mollusk.  This intelligent species can change color rapidly, and like an octopus, it can emit ink when being attacked or threatened.  It has eight arms, two suckered tentacles to capture food and can grow up to 14 inches long.

Depending on one’s preference, a cuttlefish may be bought in egg clusters, as a juvenile or as an adult.

What are the extra costs?

Cuttlefish food can be costly and should be budgeted for.  Their diet includes brine shrimp, particularly for newly hatched cuttlefish, mollusks, crabs, small fish, octopus, worms, and even other cuttlefish.  Crayfish and freshwater shrimp may also be used.  If raising cuttlefish from eggs, the best food choice is live mysids since newborn hatchlings will only consume live food.  At three months, they can then be fed with marine shrimp and krill.  A bag of 2,000 mysid shrimp, for example, can cost about $300.

If you are going to raise a cuttlefish in an aquarium setting, you will need to consider the cost of keeping a saltwater tank.  The average cost of a saltwater tank with a reef system averages about $30 to $35 per gallon, and experts highly recommend a tank at least 100 to 200 gallons at a minimum.  For example, a 200-gallon tank can easily cost into the thousands.

You need to think about the maintenance of the saltwater tank as well in the future.  If you were to hire a professional aquarium cleaning service, for example, it could start at $1 per gallon, with a minimum fee starting at $75.

If ordering online, shipping charges may apply due to the sensitivity of the fish while in transit.  Most retailers want to ship overnight to ensure the fish survives upon arrival.  This fee, however, may be waived if you meet a minimum spending requirement.

Tips to know:

Cuttlefish have a very short lifespan and can live as long as one to two years with the proper environment.

Cuttlefish eggs hatch in approximately 50 days, depending on the temperature of the water.  Since these hatchlings are very small, about the size of a pea, it can take up to three months to see them inside of the aquarium.

They can become cannibalistic when food is scarce.  If you have more than one cuttlefish, this can be a serious concern.

The cuttlefish is sensitive to heavy metals, particularly copper.  Aquariums should be made of safe materials such as stainless steel or titanium.

When approaching an aquarium with cuttlefish, be careful since a cuttlefish in danger will release an ink cloud in defense. If this were to happen, you would have to change the water immediately to avoid damage or even death.

Some experts suggest having 100 to 200 gallons of water per adult as it needs more room compared with smaller cuttlefish, which can be placed in smaller tanks as they grow.

There are currently ten species of Cuttlefish, all of which are related to the squid, calamari and the octopus.

Raising a cuttlefish is recommended for those who have extensive knowledge.  Even the slightest change in the tank can cause their stress levels to rise, sometimes even causing death.

How can I save money?

If starting out, consider looking for a used saltwater aquarium on Craigslist or even eBay.  If you’re lucky enough, you may be able to find someone who’s getting rid of their fish along with the supplies, helping you potentially save more than 40 percent.

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How Much Does an ATM Machine Cost?

An ATM, or Automatic Teller Machine, can provide your customers with the convenience of getting cash when it is needed.

For retail businesses, installing an ATM on site can result in increased foot traffic and higher revenue while reducing the chances for fraudulent checks, insufficient funds, and credit card fees.

“ATM Keypad 2” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  catatronic

How much does an ATM machine cost?

There are a variety of factors that can affect the total cost of an ATM when you want to purchase one outright.  On average, a pretty good machine can cost anywhere from as little as $2,000 to more than $15,000.  The costs will depend on the level of security features, the size of the screens, how many notes it can hold and its level of technology.   The best sellers, in most cases, will be in the $2,000 to $3,500 range.

For instance, if you were to purchase an ATM that uses a basic keypad with a dial-locking safe that connects to a phone line, then the costs could be much less than a touchscreen with a WiFi connection, according to FitSmallBusiness.com.

If you don’t $5,000 to start off with, then highly consider an ATM placement or partnership.  An ATM placement, for example, is when the ATM provider will do the majority of the work, from purchasing the machine to paying to have it installed.  They will also manage the cash and even ship it to your business.  With this type of agreement, you will have to pay the provider up to $0.50 to $1 per transaction since they are doing most of the work.  The other issue, however, is that a placement is guaranteed since most companies will want to see a minimum amount of transactions before they work with you, usually around 250 to 400 transactions per month.  If you don’t do a lot of transactions, then you may be able to find a partner, but the transaction costs will be about 50 percent more than average.

A partnership, unlike a placement, is similar to that of a two-way street.  In this scenario, you can either lease to own the machine and/or have the company provide the cash up front.  A partnership can often take 50 percent of your profits, plus the leasing fee, which can range from $50 to $100 per month.

According to ATMMachine.com, you should be prepared to spend $2,000 up to $15,000, but they mention most of the best sellers are less than $3,000.

ATM machine overview

Most ATM machines will be similar in features, but the key difference will be how the machine connects, either via a phone line or the Internet.  Also, security features can differ.  An outside machine, for example, would need to be more advanced in its security.

Three types of ATM machines exist on the market, including the freestanding, countertop and built-in ATM.  A freestanding machine, the most popular choice, is typically two feet by two feet and will be simply that — a machine standing on its own.  A countertop machine is designed for a smaller business with less-than-average floor space and can sit on top of a counter.  Lastly, a built-in ATM will be similar to the machines at a local bank.  These machines will require construction work to properly fit the machine and can offer the highest security features.

Popular brands include Hyosung, Trinton Traverse, Hantle ATM’s, Genmega, and Nautilus Halo series..

What are the extra costs?

Even if you purchase an ATM outright, the costs don’t end there.  Remember, you will have to stock the machine with cash, with the average owner placing $2,000 inside of the machine; however, some owners can get away with as little as $500.  While this isn’t an “extra cost” per se, it can be added to your startup expenses.  Most machines are capable of holding up to $20,000.

ATM insurance is highly recommended in order to protect you in case of theft or damages to the machine.  A good policy can cost about $30 to $60 per month, depending on the coverage and the insurance company you choose.

Connection costs, if you were to use either a landline or Wifi, can cost another $30 to $80 per month; however, if you already have these connections available within your location, then you can either consider adding a second line or bypassing the cable Internet costs altogether.

Depending on the processor and contract you choose, you may have to pay a transaction fee, which can be about $0.30 to $0.50 per transaction.

An additional cash cassette, if your ATM allows it, can be an additional $100 to $500 per cassette.

A cash loading service, if you didn’t want to deal with this, could cost $50 to $75 per trip.

Like most electronics, problems are bound to happen.  Be prepared for any repairs you may need in the future.

Tips to know:

When buying or even leasing, be well aware of the fees before signing a contract.

As a general rule of thumb, three to five percent of those who pass through your doors will use your ATM.

How can I save money?

If you know what kind of ATM machine you want, see if you can find a used machine either on eBay or Craiglist.  Craigslist can be a great option since it’s local, meaning you won’t have to pay for shipping fee.

If you’re lucky, you may be able to find a local business that’s either trying to get rid of their unprofitable ATM machine or may be upgrading to a better version.

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How Much Does a Yorkie Poo Cost?

A Yorkie Poo, also known as Yorkiedoodle or a Yo-Yopoo, is not a purebred – it’s a 50/50 cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Minature Poodle.

Because of the cross breeding, it’s difficult to predict the exact result of the puppies.  Some offspring will take on the Yorkshire features, while others may favor the poodle.

This means that not every Yorkie poo will look or act alike.

“Thou art Phoebe…” (CC BY 2.0) by  |vv@ldzen|

How much does a Yorkie Poo cost?

On average, a Yorkie Poo puppy is going to cost anywhere from $400 to as much as $1,000.  The costs will depend on its parent’s history, bloodline, the quality, colors, age, breeder, geographical location and inclusions with the adoption.  A breeder with paperwork will always cost more than a backyard breeder with little paperwork.

On the market, you may see the following terms: F1, F2 or F3.  F1 refers to 50 percent Yorkie and 50 percent Poodle, whereas an F2 refers an F1 Yorkie-Poo and F1 Yorkie-Poo.  Lastly, an F3 refers to an F2 Yorkie-Poo bred with an F2 Yorkie-Poo.  The higher the number, the more you’re likely to pay.

Puppyfind.com, an online pet classified website, has several Yorkie Poos listings, with prices ranging anywhere from as little as $350 to as much as $850.

On NextDayPets.com, another pet classified website like PuppyFind.com, the prices range from $500 to $1,500.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

A reputable breeder should always, at a minimum, include the registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccinations, a health guarantee and a vet check up from a registered veterinarian.  If being shipped, your breeder should include the travel crate as well.

What are the extra costs?

If the dog has to be shipped via an airline or by ground, plan on spending an additional $200 to $300.

As with any dog, be sure to factor in the recurring costs such as food, accessories, vet visits, grooming, obedience classes, dog sitting and medication.  Even if your dog is 100 percent healthy, it can still cost you well over $600 a year or much more if your dog were to come down with an illness.

Tips to know:

A Yorkie Poo usually stands between six to nine inches tall and weighs around four to 14 pounds, depending on its genetics.

The average life span, as long as healthy, is close to 12 to 15 years.  Due to being a relatively new breed, however, there is little data in regards to their health history.

The coat can be a white, black, gray, silver or a blend of these colors, greatly depending on the genetics, but as they grow older, however, their coat slowly becomes gray.  Their tail can stand high or straight, and again, depending on the parents, the size and head will vary in size, similar to that of either the Poodle or Yorkshire Terrier.

This breed is not recognized by the AKC since it is deemed a “hybrid.”  To put it nicely, it’s an overpriced “mutt.”  It is recognized as a breed by the American Hybrid Canine Club, Designer Dog Kennel Club, International Designer Canine Registry and the Designer Breed Registry.

It’s known as a good watchdog and will tend to bark at any unknown noise; however, they can be controlled with training at a younger age.

Due to their fragile size, you must carefully monitor your dog as it plays with children.  The same can be said with larger dogs as the Yorkie Poo tends to underestimate their size, challenging other dogs, regardless of how intimating they may be.

The dog doesn’t shed as much as the average dog, making it great for those who suffer from allergies.  Even though they are considered hypoallergenic, you should still brush their hair to keep it free of any tangles and debris.

Even though the dog is smaller than average, they still need time to play outdoors.  Suitable for an apartment, be forewarned that they can bark constantly if they, again, aren’t trained properly.

As for its temperament, the Yorkie Poo is known to be confident, filled with a lot of energy, boldness and intelligence.  Also, gentle, loving and affectionate, they love to be around its owner at all times.

Common health problems that may arise include cataracts, dry eye, keratitis, progressive retinal atrophy and endocarditis.

How can I save money?

Why spend close to a thousand dollars when you can spend less than $150 at a local shelter?  Before considering a “designer” dog, consider going to a local rescue and/or shelter to see if you can find a dog that closely resembles this breed.  It’s a great way to support a local cause and help a dog truly in need.

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How Much Does Stucco Repair Cost?

Stucco, even though it’s known as a long lasting option for your home, can occasionally become damaged due to weather, poor installation or even accidents, causing it to crack, chip and/or even warp.

If you notice any repairs that need to be done, it should be completed as soon as possible to prevent the underlying wood from potential water damage.

“Stucco Detail” (CC BY 2.0) by  shaire productions

How much does stucco repair cost?

The cost of stucco repair will depend on the size of your project, the age of the existing stucco, the complexity of the job, where you live and who you hire.  On average, be prepared to spend about $10 to $20 per medium sized crack.  Aside from this, most contractors will also charge a minimum service charge that usually starts at $100 to $200.

To break it down, a traditional stucco mix will cost about $10 a bag and another $20 for the finishing material, all depending on the thickness and the quality you prefer.  To fix 10 to 20 medium-sized cracks, it will take, on average, about 20 bags of stucco, give or take, for a total of about $300 for just the materials or about $15 per crack.  Again, this is just for the materials.  As for labor, most local contractors, depending on where you live, can charge anywhere from $40 to $65 per hour, and most average jobs, again, depending on the size can take four to 10 hours to complete, bringing the total to $360 to $650 for just the labor charges.  When we combine the two charges, the labor and materials, can cost about $660 to $950 to repair the average size home with 10 to 20 cracks.  This estimate will apply to most chipped, cracked, stained and traditional stucco repair jobs.

All jobs will be unique, and for that reason, it’s best to get multiple quotes to see what it may cost.  We highly recommend using HomeAdvisor.com, a free tool that allows you to receive quotes from multiple licensed, reputable contractors in your area.  Simply describe your quote and contractors will contact you with quotes with no obligation or credit card on your part.

HomesInspection.com, on this pricing list, says it can cost about $8 to $14 per square foot, on average, to repair stucco.

What are the extra costs?

Most contractors, when repairing, will use either a traditional stucco, which is made from sand, cement, lime, and water or an acrylic stucco, which comes from a wet mix that can offer different texture finishes.  Since an acrylic stucco, commonly referred to as a synthetic stucco, is much harder to work with and the materials cost more, your contractor could charge up to five times more.

Matching paint for the surface will be needed and may be an additional charge, depending on the contractor’s billing policy.  Since stucco won’t be painted when added, it may blend in, but you will still be able to notice it from a distance.  For that reason, you may want to budget for another $200 to $450 to paint the newly repaired surfaces.

Homes with more than one story or a uniquely shaped design could involve more labor costs, effectively increasing the costs by more than 20 percent.

In some scenarios, the cracks on the surface may be due to an underlying issue such as a setting home.  If an underlying issue needs to be resolved to prevent the cracks from performing the future, then these repairs, depending on the complexity, could cost well into the thousands.

Tips to know:

While it may be tempting to do the repair on your own, you may want to call in the professionals if the crack is larger than an inch and/or is in a hard-to-reach area such as a window, doorway or gable.

How to repair stucco

How can I save money?

As with any repair, always try your best to get at least three to five quotes from reputable contractors in your area.  General contractors, painters and handyman services can all perform the repairs.  When choosing, don’t just focus on the price; rather, be sure to look at their reviews, past work and licensing.

Stucco repair kits exist online and are designed for hairline cracks and almost anyone can use the kit as long as you follow the directions.  Consider the repairs yourself before hiring a contractor to see if you can save a few hundred dollars.  On Amazon.com, for instance, small patch kits can retail for less than $15 and are designed for those who have minor repairs to be performed.  This helpful TheStuccoGuy.com guide , for instance, shows you how simple repairs can be performed.

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How Much Does a EtG Test Cost?

EtG testing, often referred to as Ethyl Glucuronide (EtG) testing, is the latest advancement in monitoring alcohol consumption.

Compared with standard alcohol testing methods, such as urine and breathalyzers, EtG screening is regarded as being more efficient since it can measure consumption up to 80 hours after alcohol intake.

Often required for those who are on probation, this testing is often used by the court systems or employers that have a Zero Tolerance alcohol usage policy.

How much does an EtG test cost?

On average, the price of the EtG test is going to be between $10 and $70.  Screening is going to be less than $20; however, if the confirmation is needed for legal purposes, the prices can go up.

RS EDEN, an organization that addresses critical needs in public safety and health, provides an EtG screening test for alcohol for $8, for example.  If confirmation is needed, an extra $35 is added.

At the Oregon-based De Paul Treatment Centers, another center we had found online, the EtG + UA (urine drug test) for outpatients costs $35.

At Ethyl-Glucuronide.com, the EtG / EtS – Ethyl Glucuronide Ethyl Sulfate Alcohol Test costs $39.95.  Bulk pricing is also offered.

If you’re just curious about the results, an at-home test can cost as little as $10 to $15 per strips.  Granted, if you were to purchase an at-home test, do keep in mind these couldn’t be used as results in a court case.

On Amazon.com, for example, most over-the-counter EtG strips, even though they have mixed reviews, retail for less than $15 for five tests.

EtG testing overview

The EtG test is a laboratory-based type of test taken from urine specimen collected from an individual.  Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) is a direct metabolite of ethyl alcohol and an indicator of recent alcohol intake or exposure.  The presence of EtG in the urine can be used to detect alcohol consumption, even after ethanol alcohol can no longer be measured.  EtG can be detected as soon as two hours after exposure and remain detectable in urine for up to three to four days or 80 hours after intake or exposure.

During the testing process, EtG test providers use different test levels.  The most commonly used test level is the 100 ng/ml LC/MS/MS testing.  It is typically used to monitor subjects for professional or clinical reasons. Another level is 250 ng/ml LC/MS/MS testing, which has a high enough cut-off to prevent most incidental exposures.  The third test level is the 500 ng/ml LC/MS/MS testing level, which is usually used for routine clinical and forensic purposes.

Reputable EtG test providers automatically confirm non-negatives at no additional cost, while others detect EtG and EtS (another alcohol marker) at the same time, a method that enables immediate confirmation.

Any positive result will mean that ethanol has been processed by the liver.  The EtG production is going to vary by the individual.

If you have purchased an at home EtG test, you will be given instructions, a way to collect a sample, and an addressed package to send the sample in for testing.  Results should be available in 24 to 78 hours, depending on the lab.  If done at a local lab, the results can be provided within minutes.

What are the extra costs?

In certain cases, a confirmation test may need to be done.  If this information is going to be used in a court case, for example, a confirmation is necessary.  In some testing centers, the confirmation test costs $35 or so.

Benefits of EtG testing

Detects ingestion of alcohol more accurately and for a longer period of time than the breath test or urine test.

EtG testing is ideal for abstinence and zero tolerance situations.

Can detect alcohol consumption up to four days prior to testing.

EtG is only present when alcohol is consumed and therefore there is no chance of false positives.

EtG allows for better monitoring of those on probation.

EtG can be tested simultaneously with other drug tests for convenience.

EtG testing can be a great indicator of whether a person is showing signs of addiction.

Tips to know:

Individuals scheduled for EtG testing are advised to refrain from taking or using products containing alcohol since it can cause the urine tests to come back positive, requiring you to perform a confirmation testing.  Things that can cause a false positive on an EtG, according to experts, include OTC medications for flu and colds, hand sanitizers, mouthwash, vinegar, food cooked with alcohol, and non-alcoholic beer.

Before EtG testing results can be used for legal action, there needs to be a support standard test to examine the results or where there is a viable contract that confirms that the person being subjected to an EtG testing is aware that there may be a positive result from incidental exposure to ethanol alcohol.

Keep in mind that this type of test can detect low levels and is deemed very sensitive.  Positive tests can show up even if the subject taking the test did not consume alcohol.  For instance, if they used a hand sanitizer or cosmetic, the test could produce a false positive.

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How Much Does a Strep Test Cost?

A strep test may be ordered by your doctor if you display the symptoms of strep throat or you have been exposed to strep during rheumatic fever.

The presence of streptococcus bacteria, which causes strep throat, will test positive on the strip after a mucus sample is taken from the back of your throat.

How much does a strep test cost?

Depending on where the test is done, a strep test will usually cost between $20 to as much as $65 for just the rapid strep test.  This won’t include the doctor’s office examination fee if you were to have the test performed at your local doctor’s office  If you were to factor in the doctor’s office fee and the strep test, then the costs will be around $135 to $250 without insurance.

If the test were taken inside of an emergency room, then the costs for the test could easily be more than $150.  This wouldn’t include the hospital emergency room fee.  It’s not unheard of to pay more than $500 to test for strep throat only.

At the CVS Minute Clinic, the costs of a rapid strep throat test would cost $35 for the test, plus you would be responsible for the $89 to $129 visitation fee.

Walgreens, on the other hand, charges $25 for the test and another $89 to $129 for the patient exam.

The test can also be done at home, and these kits can retail for $25 to $45.

For example, the highest rated strep tests on Amazon.com retail for about $35 for 25 testing strips.

Strep test overview

A rapid strep test is a diagnostic test used to demonstrate whether streptococcus bacteria is present in the patient’s throat.  The test includes rubbing a cotton swab against the back of the throat and tonsils to get a mucus sample, which takes around two seconds.  The mucus sample is then tested for a protein that comes from strep bacteria.  The results, either normal or abnormal, are then produced within 10 to 15 minutes at the doctor’s office.  Normal or a negative test means the strep bacteria may not be present, while an abnormal or positive test means the strep bacteria is present and antibiotics can be started.  Cigna, however, claims that negative results can often be wrong, meaning it can come back negative, but you do have it.  If this were the case, a throat culture may be performed to confirm the result.

If the strep bacteria is present, an antibiotic treatment will be started right away.

What are the extra costs?

If you do have strep throat, then your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, cephalexin, or penicillin, which can cost an additional $10 to $20.

As mentioned, albeit rare, a throat culture may be ordered if your physician thinks the negative result isn’t certain.  A throat culture, on average, can cost an additional $30 to $50.

How can I save money?

Purchase a kit online.  For less than $40, you can get more than 20 test strips for the future; however, if you were to have it, then you would still need to visit a doctor in order to get a prescription.

If you have insurance, be sure to use it as it will be covered as long as the doctor’s office is in network.  Be sure to talk with your health insurance ahead of time or visit the official website to see who’s a participating provider in your area.

If at all possible, avoid the emergency room unless you want to pay more than $500.  Either consider going to a local pharmacy, urgent care or even consider a telemedicine app to help bring the costs down.

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How Much Do Strawberries Cost?

Strawberries, which are free from fat, sodium and cholesterol, are an amazing source of fiber, vitamin C and folate.

“Strawberries” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Geekpulp

How much do strawberries cost?

On average, fresh strawberries, usually outsourced out of state, are going to cost $1 to $4 per pound depending on the season.  The costs really depend on the time of year, geographical location, quantity and where they are purchased.  The summer months, when strawberries are in season, the costs are often as little as $0.75 if on sale to close to $2 per pound.

If the strawberries were to come from a local farm within 50 miles, then the prices may be twice the amount mentioned, even if in season.  A flat, for example, which is often found at a local berry farm, could cost about $30 for a flat or about $17 for a half flat.  A pint can cost about $3 to $5, while three pints may be a pinch less than $10.

A frozen bag of strawberries can cost close to $2 for a 16-ounce bag to as much as $10 for a 64-ounce bag.

At Trader Joe’s, for example, a two-pound container retails for $4.79, but this price may vary by region, according to the website.  This price is good for the east coast, midwest, and southeast.

When checking Walmart’s online grocery pickup prices, the cost of strawberries was $1.98 per pound.

This USDA report, as of 2013, says the average price for fresh strawberries was $2.36 per pound, while frozen was only two cents more.

Tips to know

Strawberries commonly purchased at a grocery store will either come in a 16- or 32-ounce container.

One pound of strawberries contains 151 calories, no fat, no cholesterol, no sodium, 34 grams of carbohydrates, 3.8 grams of fiber and 22.7 grams of sugar.

When picking out strawberries at a local store, look for a shiny, firm and bright red berry with a fresh-looking green intact cap.

In a pound of strawberries, you can expect 15 to 20 medium-sized berries or close to two cups.  In a pint, it will yield about two cups of sliced berries, according to HowMuchIsIn.com.

How can I save money?

The summer months are often the best months to buy strawberries for less than $1 a pound.  If you have a handful of grocery stores in your area, be sure to compare the circular ads to see which grocery stores are offering the best deals.  Any price under $1 per pound is deemed a good deal by most.

In some cases, frozen strawberries may be cheaper than fresh strawberries.  Depending on the reasons for purchase, frozen strawberries can work just as well.

Check out a local farmers market, or if you live in an area good for strawberries, consider a U-pick farm.  Local markets are often cheaper and can taste much better.  A U-pick farm, depending on your location, could cost about $10 to $15 per gallon bucket or about $1 to $2 per pound.

Buying in bulk at your local wholesale clubs, such as Costco and Sam’s Club, can bring the costs down.

Thrifty shoppers highly recommend checking out your local Aldi or 99 cent store for cheap strawberries.

If purchasing frozen, consider the store brand to save up to 30 percent.

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How Much Does a Dump Truck Rental Cost?

Whether it’s transporting dirt or debris from one location to the next, a dump truck may be necessary for the job.  Instead of spending top dollar to purchase one, when it doesn’t make sense, many opt to rent one for a few days.

“Dump truck full of dirt” (CC BY 2.0) by  mikelehen

How much does a dump truck rental cost?

The cost of renting a dump truck will depend on the size of the dump truck, where you live, the company and time you need it.  On average, be prepared to spend $300 to $800 per day or about $1,000 to $2,300 for the week.  Hourly rates, from the rental companies that offered, charged about the same amount as the daily rate.

Also, a deposit, before you can even rent the dump truck, will apply.  Depending on the rental company, this can range anywhere from $100 to $750.  This fee, once the truck is returned, will be refunded or applied to your total.

United Rentals, on its official website, quoted a 10 to 14-yard dump truck for $711 per day or $2,188 for the week.

Hertz Rentals offers close to 15 dump truck models, with prices ranging from as little as $350 per day to as much as $1,350 per day.

RentalYard.com features close to 150 ads from rental companies throughout the United States.  Glancing at the ads, a tri axle Sterling A9500 rents for $2,520, whereas a Freightliner with 425 horsepower and tandem axles could cost upwards of $6,000 per month.  A single axle with 109,000 miles could rent for as little as $200 per day.

What are the extra costs?

A mileage surcharge may apply on top of the estimates noted above.  While some rental companies may include a certain amount of miles, some may charge $0.30 to $0.75 per mile driven.  Be sure to look for a breakdown of fees to understand what you will be responsible for.

If you needed an operator for the dump truck while renting, this could be an additional $50 to $75 per hour, depending on the local rates.

Tips to know

Don’t confuse renting vs leasing.  Renting a dump truck, just as you would with a rental car, allows you to drop the dump truck off when you’re done using it.  Once dropped off, the payments stop.  As for leasing, it’s just like a car lease; however, you will need to commit to a certain period of time, whether it’s two, three or four+ years.  When you lease a dump truck, you will sign a contract, forcing you to pay the payments regardless if you need it or not.  When the lease is up, you can either turn it in or even buy it for an undetermined amount.

How can I save money?

As with most rentals, the longer you rent, the more you can save.  If you know you needed the dump truck for longer than 48 hours, then it may make sense to rent for the week.  A weekly rental can cut the daily rate by more than half.

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How Much Does a Dog Autopsy Cost?

After your dog has passed away, you may be wondering what actually caused its death or if there could have been anything you have done.

A pet autopsy, commonly referred to as a necropsy, could be helpful to help you determine the cause of your pet’s death.  It could also be recommended if your veterinarian asks for your permission since they have a scientific interest in observing the results.

How much does an autopsy cost for a dog?

Necropsies can be expensive, especially if it’s being done for legal reasons.  Depending on who’s performing the test and how many tests need to be performed, the costs can be as little as $100 to more than $1,200.   After your dog’s death, if your veterinarian doesn’t offer an autopsy, it could be done for a few reasons.  For starters, some veterinarians are uncomfortable with the process as some don’t feel comfortable diagnosing a certain disease as they don’t have the proper training.  Some may even shy away from it as they feel it won’t shed much light on the situation, which, in turn, could cause more grief and unnecessary money being spent.  If you do recommend one, there’s a good chance they will refer you to a certified pathologist.

If the vet performs just a visual inspection, with no lab tests, then the average cost will be $100 to $250, on average.

Dr. Gen B. on JustAnswer.com said the costs could depend a lot on what the vet needs to look out for and the suspected cause of death.  A visual inspection, for example, could take 30 to 120 minutes to perform and could cost $90 to $300, depending on how long it takes.  In other cases, if tissue or fluids need to be surgically obtained and sampled, then the costs could increase.

Dog autopsy overview

Known as a “necropsy” in the animal world, this procedure, performed by a certified veterinary pathologist, will be similar to that of a human autopsy.  Your pet will be opened up and explored in a routine manner if the visual results don’t produce any results.  In most cases, tissue samples will be sent off to a lab to be inspected under a microscope and the internal organs will be examined for any diseases and/or injuries.  After the results, the lab will provide you with the findings, which will be discussed with your veterinarian in the future as the lab results will contain many confusing technical terms.

What are the extra costs?

Most veterinarians will start with a visual inspection to determine the exact cause of death.   If the visual inspection yields on results, then he or she may want to collect tissue or fluid samples to send off to the lab for further testing to see if any toxic substances were present, for example.  If this were the case, then these lab tests could add hundreds to the estimates mentioned above.

Tips to know:

Sometimes, if you were to use your veterinarian for euthanasia, you may be agreeing to a necropsy as well, according to Dr. Patty Khuly on PetMD.com.  If you don’t want one, always refer to the fine print before signing paperwork.

If you do decide on an autopsy, do so immediately as every passing hour can hurt the testing process.

How can I save money?

Don’t hesitate to ask your vet’s office ahead of time as most reputable offices can offer an itemized bill before you commit to the charges.

A good vet will always tell you if an autopsy is worth it.  Most of the time, a vet will be able to tell you the reason why your dog passed away, but even if there are some question marks, the autopsy, even if performed, may not provide concrete results.  If at all possible, try to get one to two opinions to see what your best options are for both your wallet and questions.

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How Much Does a Stop Sign Cost?

The stop sign is one of the most recognizable signs that is used on the road.

Whether you need this sign for private property or as a decoration, the costs will depend primarily on the condition and where it’s purchased from.

“Stop Sign” (CC BY 2.0) by  thecrazyfilmgirl

How much does a stop sign cost?

On average, be prepared to pay around $25 to as much as $150 for a stop sign similar to the one you see on the road.  The costs will depend on the reflective grade, the size of the stop sign and where you purchase it.  While the sign may not be identical to the one you’re used to seeing, the dimensions, material, and size will be close.

USA-traffic-signs.com offers a 24-inch high-intensity reflective traffic stop sign for $50.  On the other hand, a 24-inch high-intensity reflective stop sign retails for $70.

If you were to hit a stop sign and you were responsible for the bill, the costs could be much more than this due to the labor involved to replace it.  On average, if this were the case, you would be on the hook for close to $500 to replace a government-issued stop sign.  While the sign itself can cost the government $50 to $75, the labor involved, since it’s billed at $55 to $75 per hour, depending on the area you live in, can increase the costs into the hundreds.

Nasdaq, for instance, claims it could cost you $511 if you were to hit a stop sign.

In this Lawrence Journal-World article, the city of Lawrence has to pay $50 for the stop sign, but it’s the labor and anchor that makes the sign expensive.

Stop sign overview

These signs, when purchased for personal use will either be made by an engineering grade reflective aluminum, high intensity prismatic reflective aluminum or diamond grade reflective aluminum.  Diamond grade, as compared to the other materials, can last up to three to five years longer.  Engineering grade reflective aluminum will reflect at night, offering superior brightness at night compared to the standard engineering grade.  High-intensity prismatic signs will also reflect at night when the light hits it by using an encapsulated lens material, which can offer a better reflectivity.  These signs, when compared to engineering grade, will be 10 times more reflective and can last much longer.  Lastly, diamond grade, when compared to the previous two, has the highest degree of reflectivity, offering 10 times more reflective material than standard engineering grade and these signs have a viewing range of 200 to 600 feet.  Superior to fading, these signs will exceed most State and Federal D.O.T. guidelines.

Typical sizes include 12, 18, 24, 30 and 36 inches.  As for the stop sign dimensions, stop signs have a size of 750 mm across opposite flats of the red octagon, with a 20 mm white border. The white uppercase letters in small caps forming the stop legend are 250 mm tall, according to Wikipedia.

Mounting holes, unless otherwise stated, will include two ⅜″ holes on the top and the bottom.

What are the extra costs?

Due to the larger size, additional shipping fees may be applied, depending on where you purchase it.  If you were to buy online, shipping fees could cost another $10 to $30.

Plan on replacing a stop sign every seven to 10 years if used outdoors.  This length will depend on the materials being used.

If the sign is going to be mounted, additional parts such as a pole and a concrete base will be needed.  If a contractor needs to install one, plan on budgeting another $200 to $500 to have one installed.  Typical poles will be around eight feet tall, and if a pole is not used, there are portable sign bases that can be used as well.  If you were to need a contractor, you could receive multiple free quotes from contractors in your area at HomeAdvisor.com.

Tips to know:

Choose a stop sign that does not fade as highly reflective signs will meet the local state DOT and MUTCD guidelines.  Try to stick to the three grades mentioned above and steer clear of the standard engineering grades.

How can I save money?

Check out Craigslist and eBay.  Here, you may be able to find an authentic sign, even if it’s slightly used, for a fraction of the cost.

Some companies will offer bulk discounts for those who purchase more than 5 to 10 at a time.

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