How Much Does Billboard Advertising Cost?
Billboard advertising offers a company the opportunity to show their message to thousands of people while on the road. Placed on elevated boards near the roadside, this advertising method can be visible to both pedestrians and/or cars.
How much does a billboard cost?
Billboard advertising costs can be very different depending on the location of the billboard. Areas with higher traffic can cost more when compared to a billboard that is placed in an area which generates little traffic. The price can also increase depending on the duration of the contract you sign with the advertising company. Because of these different factors, the price of billboard advertising has a very wide range and can cost anywhere from $200 to as much as $150,000+ per month. Refer to our table below to see what you may pay.
Digital billboards, which display a message every eight seconds, will be much cheaper, often costing $2,000 to $8,000 per month; again, depending on the factors we have mentioned in the guide. Digital billboards, to some, can be more dynamic since it captures the driver’s attention as they drive by. It can also be more targeted since the ad can change at any given notice.
Mobile billboards, which as the name states — is mobile — will be plastered on the side of a truck as it drives up and down a busy area. Depending on the area, this can cost anywhere from $800 to $3,000 per eight hour day.
According to FitSmallBusiness.com, they say a four-week billboard in Baraboo, WI, could cost $250, while a billboard for four weeks in New York City could cost more than $14,000.
The Grasshopper blog did some in-depth research and had found in their city of Boston, it would cost $11,000 to $23,000 for a four-week ad, while in San Diego, it could cost $8,400 to $15,000 per four weeks.
To see what it may cost in your local area, play around with this Lamar Inventory Browser to see what a billboard may cost.
| Type of Billboard | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Bulletin Board (Large) | $1,000 to $75,000 per 4 weeks |
| 30 Sheet Poster (Medium) | $500 to $10,000 per 4 weeks |
| Junior Poster (Small) | $200 to $5,000 per 4 weeks |
| Digital | $3,000 to $50,000 per 4 weeks |
NOTE: Prices are going to vary depending on the location and the company offering the billboard.
| Geographical location | 4-Week Ad Rate |
|---|---|
| Anaheim, CA | $500 to $15,000 |
| Atlanta, GA | $1,000 to $9,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $1,000 to $15,000 |
| Dallas, TX | $500 to $20,000 |
| Detroit, MI | $800 to $6,00 |
| Eugene, OR | $450 to $3,000 |
| Hartford, CT | $2,500 to $7,500 |
| Houston, TX | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| Myrtle Beach, SC | $300 to $3,000 |
| New York - NJ - PA | $2,500 to $250,000 |
| Orlando, FL | $400 to $3,000 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| Seattle, WA | $1,000 to $60,000 |
| St. Louis, MO | $600 to $5,000 |
NOTE: Rates were found on the Lamar Advertising tool mentioned above
Factors that affect the cost
Circulation
The more cars that pass the billboard, the more it may likely cost; however, this isn’t always the case as some billboards could be in high traffic areas but it won’t be as visible to the cars driving by.
Demographics
Like any advertising, the age, gender and income level that may pass the billboard can affect the cost. If you were to advertise to a higher income level, then it could cost much more than advertising in a lower income area.
Impressions
Like the circulation, the size of the ad, the visibility and the speed passerbys are traveling can also affect the cost.
Time of year
Depending on the area, some months may be costlier than others.
Duration
The longer you commit to your billboard purchase, the more you may be able to save.
What are the extra costs?
Designing and printing the billboard are separate processes which can be done by a different company. Often created by vinyl, the average billboard that measures 14 by 48 feet will cost about $300 to $600 for the material.
This won’t include the designing. When designing the billboard is factored in, this can be another $500 to $1,200 to hire a professional designer.
Tips to know:
Most billboard advertising contracts will be worked out with a local ad agency such as Lamar Advertising, CBS Outdoor and Clear Channel, the three largest billboard companies in the United States. These companies will handle everything from constructing the billboard to setting up the ad.
Many advertising companies will require a minimum amount of billboards or a certain time commitment before they work with you. For example, larger billboard companies may require that you reserve at least five spots in their network before they work with you or they may want you to sign a six to 12 month deal.
Fit Small Business, the blog we mentioned earlier, said you have to look out for three things when choosing your billboard to advertise with: how fast people are driving by, the proximity of the billboard and where the typical traveler is going. People driving 40 miles per hour, for example, are more likely to see your ad than if they were driving 70 miles per hour on the highway.
How can I save money?
Government and non-profit agencies can often receive a discount.
Billboard rates are almost always negotiable, and according to one expert on Quora, he said you can often knock up to 50% percent off the rate card.
How Much Does Thyroidectomy Surgery Cost?
A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure where the thyroid gland is surgically removed completely (total thyroidectomy) or just partially (thyroid lobectomy or partial thyroidectomy). Located over the larynx, around the trachea, the thyroid functions to produce hormones which are released into the bloodstream to regulate the body’s metabolism.
The thyroid will often have to be removed if the patient has thyroid cancer, an overacted thyroid, a cyst or enlargement which affects the breathing.
How much does thyroidectomy surgery cost?
The cost of a thyroidectomy will depend on the complexity of the procedure, the type of procedure, days in the hospital, geographical location, the doctor performing the procedure, if insurance is involved and the inclusions in the hospital bill. On average, this procedure can cost anywhere from $8,000 to as much as $25,000 without any health insurance.
MEDIGO explains the procedure in depth and says the average price for this procedure in the United States is about $17,500.
The Healthcare Bluebook claims the total fair price, without insurance, should be about $16,203.
Thyroidectomy overview
The surgical procedure will often be done in a hospital setting and the average patient will need to stay up to two days as long as no complications occur.
During the procedure, a patient will be administered under a general anesthetic before the surgery even begins. The surgery, if successful, will take two to three hours to perform a full removal and up to an hour for a partial job.
The thyroidectomy surgery options
In the surgical world, there are three techniques a surgeon may opt to use, either the conventional method, a minimally invasive method or robotically.
The conventional open surgery will be the most commonly used surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon will create a small incision across the neck to access the thyroid. Depending on the condition, either all or part of the thyroid will be removed. If the patient were to have cancer, for example, then the surrounding lymph nodes may be removed as well.
The minimally invasive technique will require several smaller incisions rather than one large one like the conventional method. Unlike the conventional method, the surgeon will insert an endoscope as a guide to locate and remove the thyroid while using small instruments.
Lastly, the robotic method is relatively new and involves what’s known as the da Vinci Surgical System. Rather than creating an incision, the surgery will be performed by accessing the armpit by creating a small incision under the arm, followed by using a robotic hand and camera to remove the thyroid.
Regardless of which option is used, the incision site will be closed with sutures and a sterile dressing will be applied. If the incision was in the neck, then a draining tube may be used to drain any excess fluid.
What are the extra costs?
Hospital bills often come with many separate bills, and the estimates mentioned above may or may not include the anesthesiologist fee, surgeon’s fee, follow-up appointments and so forth. Speak with the hospital ahead of time to see what your estimate will include if they provide you with one.
If the entire thyroid was removed, then the patient will have to take a thyroid hormone replacement medication. Other medication, such as a pain reliever, may be prescribed as well.
Tips to know
After the surgery, patients will be taken to a recovery room with a breathing tube attached and a surgical drain if required. An IV drip may also be used if the incision was made in the neck since swallowing may be painful for the patient.
Potential risks and complications may include infection, a slight change in voice, airway obstruction and/or excessive bleeding.
How can I save money?
If you meet certain income guidelines and have no insurance, then the hospital may be able to work with your situation, offering a steep discount. Talk with the hospital’s financing department to see if they can help bring the costs down.
As long as it’s deemed medically necessary, your health insurance plan should cover it. Since all insurance policies will vary, you should be responsible for your co-pays and deductibles.
All hospitals will vary with its pricing, so it’s best to talk with the hospitals over the phone to see if they can offer some sort of estimate.
How Much Does Throttle Body Service Cost?
In order for the car to run smoothly, the engine needs a perfect mixture of air and gas. The throttle body is part of the air intake system, which is responsible for providing the correct amount of airflow, but older cars were responsible for introducing both gas and air into the engine. As part of the air intake system, the throttle body will determine how much air should be let in to combine with the fuel. If it’s dirty, it may be unable to allow the right amount of air into the engine, ultimately causing poor fuel efficiency and an unstable engine. During this service, the bore and throttle blade will be cleaned.
How much does a throttle body service cost?
The price of throttle body service will depend on the mechanic performing the job, the geographical location and make and model of the vehicle. On average, according to our research, the price of this service can range anywhere from $50 to as much as $200. Refer to the table below to see some of the quotes we had received from local mechanics.
Many dealers will not do this job on its own and will rather do it as one of their preventative maintenance packages.
Throttle body service overview
This service is primarily performed as scheduled maintenance, or in some cases, if it’s a diagnosis of some symptom.
During the process, the mechanic will first scan the computer system for any codes to see if any other problems persist, aside from the throttle body if your check engine light were one. Oftentimes, the engine computer will recognize if the engine is running too rich or the fuel consumption is reducing, causing a stalling start. He or she will then check any wiring and connections to the throttle body to make sure everything is intact. From there, any carbon build-up around the intake inlet will be cleaned by using a brake cleaner and a new gasket and throttle body will be installed. Once this is all done, the codes will be cleared and the car will go on a test drive to make sure everything operates properly. This job will take a mechanic 30 to 60 minutes to perform.
Included with the package of the service is the warranty for the service should there be any issue that may arise after the service has been completed.
What are the extra costs?
If the mechanic feels the throttle body needs to be replaced, then the costs can be much higher, often in the $200 to $1,800 range. Like the service costs, the cost of a replacement will depend on the make and model, the mechanic and where you live.
Tips to know:
Common symptoms for a failing throttle body includes the check engine light being on, a lack of power, poor transmission shifting or poor car performance.
A complete throttle body service, even if you feel your car is running accordingly, should be done every 30,000 miles, according to RepairPal.com. This small preventative maintenance procedure can prevent a costly repair in the future. Refer to your car’s guide to see how often you should have this service.
CertifiedMasterTech.com offers some valuable advice, telling us that if a mechanic were to say the throttle body needed a cleaning, you would want to ask them why they suggested this cleaning and how they determined the throttle body was dirty. A reputable mechanic will remove the air intake hose and perform a visual inspection, or they may have scanned the idle air control motor at base idle.
How can I save money?
Consider performing this type of job yourself since this job is not as hard as you may think. Consider picking up a bottle of throttle body cleaner for less than $10 at a local auto shop and following the directions.
Always get at least three to five quotes. Since this is often considered a preventative service, most professional shops will have a flat rate they can give you over the phone or even offer on their website.
It also doesn’t hurt to look for specials or coupons for any preventative maintenance. For example, at the time of this writing, we were able to find a $119 coupon at a local Honda dealership in Washington state.
How Much Does Shrimp Cost?
Caught in diverse bodies of water across the globe, both fresh and salt, shrimp will normally be found at the surface of the water, feeding. Known to be high in protein and calcium, shrimp can be eaten raw, fried or throw into one of the thousand recipes found on the Internet.
How much does shrimp cost?
On average, fresh shrimp can vary anywhere from $6 to as much as $25 per pound. The costs will depend on the type of shrimp you want to purchase, where you purchase it, where you live and the current market conditions. Refer to our table below to see what most popular types will cost.
The Fisherman’s Cove, an online seafood market, offers fresh Louisiana shrimp for close to $7 per pound, plus shipping. Inside a pound, the website claims you will receive about 9 to 15 in an order.
At Costco, for instance, a 21/25 tail-on frozen bag of shrimp retails for about $18.
| Type of Shrimp | Average Cost (per pound) |
|---|---|
| Canned | $1 per can |
| Extra jumbo raw | $8 to $11 |
| Fresh wild caugh at fish market | $12 to $18, depending on geographical location |
| Fresh cooked or uncooked | $15 to $25 (with heads removed) |
| Frozen extra small with tail off | $5 to $7 |
| Frozen jumbo, with the shelled peeled | $11 to $15 |
| Headless with shell on Tiger shrimp | $15 to $21 |
| Raw extra large white | $8 to $12 |
| Raw large Gulf Brown | $9 to $12 |
| Red Argentine | $8 to $11 |
| Rock | $20 to $25 |
| Texas gulf shrimp | $7 to $10 |
Shrimp overview
At most major grocery store chains, such as Walmart or Kroger, shrimp will be sold in a few ways. In the frozen food section, it can be found already cooked in frozen bags, with or without the tail, commonly in one to two-pound packages. It can also be raw in a jumbo or smaller size, often found in 12-ounce bags. Overall, you can expect about 21 shrimp in one pound and closer to 15 if it were the jumbo variety. Markets may also have a seafood counter where you can either find fresh or previously frozen fish from across the world, but most of the time it will be the same frozen fish you were able to purchase in the frozen food aisle. Some shrimp may come from a farm, while some can come from a local fishery nearby. If purchased by the bag, pay close attention to the label. “16/20,” for instance, will mean there’s 16 to 20 shrimp inside the bag, but if you were to see the term “U10,” it means there’s fewer than 10 of those shrimp that make up a pound, according to Serious Eats.
Common shrimp sizes you will see on labels will include small, medium, large, jumbo and colossal. As the size goes up, the less you will get inside a pound. For instance, a small bag of shrimp could have close to 50 to 80 per pound, while colossal shrimp may only have 10 in a one pound bag.
Types of shrimp
The most common types of shrimp commonly found at the local store will include brown, white, pink, tiger and rock.
Brown
Brown shrimp will primarily come from the Gulf of Mexico and parts of the Atlantic coast since they like the warmer waters. These shrimp, while called brown, will have a purple-like color on its tail.
White
White shrimp will be a bit more tender and sweet than the brown and will slightly lighter in color with a greenish-like tail. Also found along the Gulf coasts, white shrimp may also be imported from Mexico, Ecuador, China and Thailand.
Pink
Pink, according to some chefs, will be the tastiest shrimp you can purchase due to its milder flavor. Pink shrimp, while called pink, can also be in a whiter or gray color, but it will be noted for its blue tail.
Tiger
Tiger shrimp, most commonly found in Asia, will have a brown stripe along its body and can grow up to 12 inches long. Known as the most commonly farmed shrimp on the market, they are known for its “shrimpy” flavor.
Rock
Rock shrimp love the deeper waters and are found along the Atlantic coast. Equipped with a rock-like shell, it can often look like a lobster from afar, and according to some, it can have a similar taste to lobster as well.
What are the extra costs?
A plastic deveiner, if you want to de-vein the shrimp on your own, can cost about $10. You can also bypass this option and use a paring knife.
If purchasing from a fish market online, shipping fees often apply due to the sensitivity of the shipment.
Tips to know:
To pick out the freshest shrimp at your market, there are a few things to keep in mind. For starters, smell and feel the shrimp before you buy. Fresh shrimp shouldn’t smell like ammonia nor should it have a slimy feel. If any of these signs persist, this is often a sign of decay and this shrimp should highly be avoided. According to Serious Eats, a more advanced sign is to look at the heads to see if you can notice any black spots. If visible, this is an indicator it isn’t at its peak for freshness. If buying a frozen bag, take a peek in the clear window on the packaging to see if any freezer burn is present.
Most of the time, you’re better off buying the shrimp frozen since most stores will sometimes take the same bag in the aisles and allow it to thaw inside the counter. With this being said, it’s best to buy frozen and control the dethawing process. Since you have no idea how long it’s been sitting at the counter, it’s best to either purchase live fresh from the ocean or inside a tank. If you were to go this route, you would want to cook it immediately.
Frozen shrimp should always be thawed out before you consume it. To do so, take it out of the bag and place inside of a bowl before running colder water on top. Within five to 10 minutes, the shrimp should be ready to go.
Pay close attention to the bag if buying frozen and always make sure the “shrimp” is the only ingredient listed on the list. Some manufacturers often add additives to increase the shelf life.
How can I save money?
Shrimp, when bought without its shell, will often lose half of its body weight, ultimately increasing the costs. If you have the time to peel shrimp before consuming, it’s almost always the cheapest route to take.
How Much Does a Shredding Service Cost?
Shredding services are provided to companies and/or individuals who need their outdated documents and sensitive files destroyed. Since it could take hours or days to shred piles of paper with a household shredder, shredding services can bring in customized trucks or you can bring it to their location to shreds hundreds of papers within minutes on the spot.
How much does a shredding service cost?
The cost of a shredding service will depend on the amount of paper that needs to be shredded, the company performing the service, geographical location and if you’re on a recurring contract. On average, local franchised services can charge about $1 per pound or $40 to $100 per bin, often the size of a garbage can, if you were to use a commercial service. We researched some of the most popular companies businesses use and provided the quotes we were given in the table below.
Angie’s List says the average cost for an on-site visit will be $100 to $150, but if you agree to a recurring visit, the costs can drop to $45 to $75 per visit.
| Company | Average Price |
|---|---|
| FedEx Kinkos | - $0.79 per pound |
| Iron Mountain | - $10 per box (on site with their own paper shredder, but there's a 300 pound minimum) - $99 per bin + $40 for each additional to bring to their premises. |
| Office Depot | - $1 per pound |
| ProShred | - $85 per bin + $40 per additional bin if they come on-site - $20 to $30 per 50 pounds if you bring to them. |
| Shred-It | - $150 per bin if on-site - $125 per bin if off-site - $10 per box if you bring to their location. |
| Staples | - $1 per pound |
| UPS | - $1 per pound |
Shredding service overview
As you can see in the table below, companies will often charge by the pound or by the “bin.” These bins are often the size of a garbage bin you would set on the side of the curb. For example, Iron Mountain’s bin measures 42 inches tall and 25 inches wide. Most companies that specialize in businesses will either bring the equipment to you, shredding the papers on site, or they can pick it up and take it back to their business center,
From our research, if you were to bring in your papers to a retailer such as Staples or Office Depot, it appears that they partner with Iron Mountain for pickups. This being said, your papers won’t be shredded on the spot, but rather, it will be placed in a secure box for a future pickup date.
What are the extra costs?
Some companies have hidden fees, on top of the estimates mentioned above. This can include administration fees, late fees, carton retrieval fees or even rush job fees. With this being said, it’s always best to read the fine print before signing any contract.
Tips to know
Some companies may have a minimum charge, so it’s best to know what this may be before committing.
How can I save money?
Bring the documents to the company instead of having them pick it up will always be the cheapest option to consider.
Considering looking at purchasing a shredder. This is a great option for those who only want to shred a few papers here and there. A good, quality shredder will start at $50 and go up from there.
There are some companies that offer paper recycling and actually pay you rather than charge you. These companies encourage recycling and they will put what looks like a dumpster on the grounds of your business. Papers can be put in this container, and when it is full, call the company for pickup. Although you will not make a large profit on this, it will help the environment by recycling as well as save you money on shredding services. However, this is not a suggestion for those with papers that need to remain confidential.
Look for coupons before considering a local franchised chain. For example, at the time of this writing, Office Depot is offering five free pounds of document shredding if you print the coupon off their website.
Many communities often hold shred events for free for its residents. As long as you have a valid ID, this is a great way to take advantage of a free service. Check your local government website or search online to see if any events are coming up. You can also search for something along the lines of “free shredding plus your city name” to see if anything pops up.
How Much Do Beef Short Ribs Cost?
Beef short ribs are a very popular cut of beef because it tends to be bigger and more tender than its pork counterpart. While they used to be considered a cheap part of the meat, people have found these cuts, if cooked properly, can create a delicious taste. Unlike the typical ribs we’re used to, short beef ribs are full of tough and chewy tissue.
Short ribs are popular in French cooking as well as in Korea, where the most popular cut is butterflying them.
How much do beef short ribs cost?
The cost of short ribs will depend on where you’re purchasing it from, the type of beef and where you live. On average, plan on spending anywhere from $4 to as much as $7 per pound at your local grocery store. This price could be more if you were to use a local butcher who uses a higher cut of meat, often reaching prices as high as $10 per pound.
On this EggheadForum.com thread, a few members chimed in and said they were quoted $11 per pound, but most agreed the prices should be within the $5 to $7 per pound range at your local grocery store or wholesale club such as Costco.
For example, Costco sells short ribs by the pound. This warehouse chain provides the product in 70-pound cases and are considered USDA choice, with prices in the $4 to $6 per pound range. Sam’s Club offers cases that can range anywhere from 50 to 85 pounds, with prices averaging close to $4 to $6 per pound, depending on your location.
BBQ-Brethren.com had a few people talking about what they had paid for short ribs in their area. One member was able to score a $2.99 per pound deal at a local butcher since no one wanted the cuts, while another paid close to $7 per pound at their local Food Lion grocery store.
Beef short ribs overview
At your local grocery store chains, most short ribs will be marketed as beef chuck ribs, but plate, choice or prime short ribs can be found at some specialty stores such as an oriental market or butcher. Most local butchers and stores will have a smaller one to 10-pound packs, whereas your wholesale clubs will sell it by the case, often in 50 to 100-pound packages.
Beef short ribs are high in phosphorus, selenium, vitamins B6, B12 and niacin, and three ounces will have close to 70 calories, three grams of fat, 30 milligrams of cholesterol, 180 milligrams of sodium and nine grams of protein.
Tips to know:
The plate of the cow, the section also known as the chest area, will be the area where the short ribs come from, along with other popular cuts such as brisket. This area will be near the bottom and will be much shorter in length when compared to traditional ribs, usually two to four inches long. Compared to the longer back ribs in the surrounding area, there will be more meat intact.
Once unthawed, it can be stored in a refrigerator for up to five days.
Short ribs can be sold boneless, but those who have cooked it claimed it will have less connective tissue and can often lack some flavor.
When purchasing in person, pay close attention to the bones to inspect the layer of meat with as little fat as possible. Some butchers may often slip a few lean bones inside the package to inflate the weight.
As for serving size, prepare at least three to four meaty ribs per person. If you have a scale, six ounces should suffice.
How can I save money?
Grocery stores, as you already know, often hold sales in its meat department. Pay close attention to their ads, and if you’re able to score a deal, consider freezing some for the future.
How Much Do Shocks and Struts Cost?
The vehicle shocks and struts are two different parts but work together to ensure a stable ride. If you feel the car handles poorly and you can feel the impact of the road becomes more noticeable, then it may be time to change the shocks and struts. Pep Boys says by the time your car has driven 50,000 miles, your shocks and struts have cycled more than 85 million times, causing quite a bit of wear and tear.
To put it in simple terms: The struts are responsible for supporting the vehicle which allows it to conform to the roads, while the shocks are mostly responsible for absorbing the impact due to the roughness of the road, making them an essential part to your car’s suspension system. If your car was built after 1995, then there’s a good chance you will have shock absorbers in both the rear and front assemblies.
How much does strut replacement cost?
On average, shock and struts replacement can be anywhere from $100 to as much as $300 for the parts alone. This will not include the cost of professional labor. This will depend on the brand of the part, your vehicle’s make and model, and the retailer you’re purchasing from.
For those who want to have the shock and struts job performed at a local repair shop, the cost for this type of repair can range anywhere from $400 to as much as $1,500 to have all the shocks and struts replaced. This will be based on the factors mentioned earlier. If you were only to need front or the back, then it’s safe to cut this estimate in half.
According to our research, we had called a few popular franchised mechanics to see what they charged. Pep Boys, for instance, said the costs could widely vary depending on the factors we already mentioned, ranging anywhere from $200 to more than $1,000. Midas said the same thing and estimated anywhere between $200 to $900.
On RepairPal.com, they list the average prices of quotes other vehicle owners received. According to their estimates, owners were charged anywhere from $178 to more than $700 for the front strut/shocks only. Glancing at the table, it seemed as if the higher end car brands such as Porsche and Jaguar were more than $600.
Strut replacement overview
Prior to having the shocks and struts being replaced, the mechanic, as we discuss below, will first want to confirm this is, indeed, the problem. He or she will fully inspect the steering wheel setup, suspension and alignment to see if any repairs need to be made in these areas.
To change the struts, the mechanic will first lift the car with the hoist to access the under body of the car. Next, depending on which shock/struct is replaced, the wheel will be removed and the brake caliper and rotor and the sway bar will be disconnected to gain access to the strut. Lastly, the strut will be disconnected from the steering knuckle and strut tower to fully remove it from the vehicle. Next, depending on the installation job, the entire strut will be replaced or the mechanic may part out the strut, effectively taking out the parts that are worn.
What are the extra costs?
To confirm the shocks and struts need to be replaced, mechanics will often want to perform a thorough evaluation. This evaluation will often cost anywhere from $25 to $55, depending on the mechanic, but if you were to use the mechanic for the repair, then there’s a good chance they will apply this fee to your repair.
Tips to know:
If your car has more than 50,000 miles and you haven’t replaced the struts yet, then it may be a good idea to bring your car in for an in-depth checkup to make sure all of your parts are in working order. Replacing them early enough can ensure a smoother ride and it can actually help allow other parts to last longer since the undercarriage will no longer shake due to the poor parts.
When replacing, it will really depend on the vehicle’s make, model and driving conditions. It’s best to always refer to the owner’s manual for specific service recommendations.
Symptoms of bad shocks and struts may include excessive bouncing, swaying while turning corners, a stiff ride, poor steering response or an unstable feeling while traveling at higher speeds. Visual observations, according to Firestone Auto Care, may include unevenly worn tires, fluid leaks, a dented shock or strut body, or corroded bushings or mounts.
How can I save money?
Most mechanics will always recommend replacing both struts at once since this is often the most cost-effective option. If the front or back were to go bad, then there’s a good chance the next one will go bad shortly after. Also, if one strut/shock is new and the other is older, there can still be a difference felt while driving.
How Much Does Shoe Repair Cost?
Shoe repair is the process of fixing separate parts of a shoe to make it usable again, including popular repairs such as resoling the shoe or heels.
How much does shoe repair cost?
The cost to have your shoes repaired depends on a number of factors. The cost of shoe repair will greatly depend on the repair that needs to be done, the shoe repair company and geographical location. On average, a shoe repair service can range anywhere from $5 to as much as $80. According to our research, take a look at our table below to see what most common repairs cost at local cobblers.
New rubber heels and soles for both men and women, for example, can cost anywhere from $15 to $50. Shoe stretching and adding sole guard protection, on the other hand, can cost $15 to $30 while replacing the heels and/or insole can cost $6 to $15.
Red Wing Shoes, a popular shoe company, offers shoe repair services at their manufacturing facility for their branded shoes only. According to their website, the premium repair package, which includes most repairs, will cost about $125, while the a la carte options can range anywhere from $7 to replace the laces to as much as $100 to resole the shoes.
| Type of Repair | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Cleaning or shining | $5 to $15 |
| Heel Liner | $30 to $60 |
| Heels (rubber or leather) | $10 to $45 to replace |
| Insoles | $20 to $35 |
| Sewing | $8 to $15 for average sewing repairs |
| Shoe Zipper | $35 to $55 |
| Sock Liner | $15 to $30 |
| Sole Protectors | $15 to $25 |
| Soles (leather or rubber) | - $40 to $85 - Cowboy/riding/hiking boots can cost $10 to $40 more. |
| Stretching Shoe | $15 to $25 |
| Welt | $15 to $25 |
Shoe repair overview
When you bring your shoe into a repair shop, it will first be evaluated by the person servicing it. After evaluation, the professional, referred to as a cobbler, will determine the price of the repair depending on their findings. Inside this estimate, it will include the cost of materials and the labor.
The most common repairs performed will include replacing the heel/sole or inserting a new sole or footbed. They can also clean, dye, replace golf shoe spikes, repair chew marks and even waterproof your shoes to prevent stains. Just like a car, just about any part of a shoe can be replaced.
The shoe repair time will vary depending on the amount of damage and how complicated the procedure is. If materials need to be ordered, for instance, the time may even be a couple of days. Most jobs should be completed within 72 hours. If being shipped to an online repair company, it could take much longer, depending on the repair. If shipping, it can take up to four to six weeks to see your shoes arrive in new condition.
What are the extra costs?
If you want to ship the shoes to the specific company that manufactured them, shipping costs may be charged; however, some manufacturers may provide the repair for free.
Some brands such as Rockport Birkenstock and Dansko’s often see premium prices due to the complexity when working with these types of shoes.
Tips to know:
Shoe repair may not be as durable as when your shoes are bought brand new, but it will extend the life of the shoe, allowing you to wear it for longer than average.
Quicken Loans says if you have your high-quality shoes repaired over time, you should see them last up to 20 years or longer.
Nushoe.com says if your shoe was resoled before, it can be resoled up to two to three times on average.
How can I save money?
Consider if the shoes are worth being repaired. If the shoes were purchased for $50, it would be silly to spend $50 on repair services unless they hold some sort of sentimental value. Only consider the repair if it’s less than half the value of the shoe.
Check to see if the shoes you purchased have any kind of warranty or guarantee from the company that made them. If the shoes are less than a year old, then the manufacturer may pick up the bill and repair them for you.
All shoes won’t be created equally, and if a cobbler thinks your shoes are too cheap to repair, they may recommend a new pair. The lesson here, even though it may be too late, is to consider buying a high-quality pair of shoes, even though it will cost a lot more up front. The Shoe Service Institute of America recommends shoes with a steel shank, the exact piece that supports the arch and a high-quality piece of natural material such as leather.
How Much Does a Shiloh Shepherd Cost?
The Shiloh Shepherd, developed in the early 1960s, looks very similar to a German Shepherd as it shares its temperament, abilities, and energy. The distinct difference will be the size and calmer personality. Some types of dogs are bred to be a companion and are mostly indoor dogs, while other dogs, like the Shiloh Shepherd, are active dogs who love the outdoors. They are perfect for people who like to be outside and love to exercise.
How much does a Shiloh Shepherd cost?
On average, this breed can cost anywhere from $900 to as much as $2,500. The price will depend on the breeder, quality, gender, age, parent’s history and where you adopt it from. A non-registered dog with no paperwork can often cost less than $1,000, while a show quality Shiloh Shepherd can cost north of $2,500. What you’re going to find when researching the price of this breed is that the quality will often be the main indicator of the price. Refer to our table to find out what most qualities will cost and what each quality term means.
The Shiloh Shepherd Dog Club of America, Inc. outlined the following pricing policy for its registered puppies on this table. Top pet quality dogs can cost anywhere from $900 to $1,800, whereas a breeding quality can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500. Breeders who abide by these standards and are accepted must offer a full guarantee and have to abide by the Code of Ethics.
| Type of Quality | Description of the Quality | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| Orange (ORA) | This is considered to be the exceptional standard of the breed and will be potential future champions. The best specimens, according to epicshilohs.weebly.com, are sold on co-ownership agreements. | $2,000 to $2,500 |
| Black/White-Upgradeable (B/W-U) Papered | These are considered pet quality puppies but will be non faulty at the time of sale. While they may be upgraded to the Orange paper status, provided they meet certain conditions, these conditions can affect the cost. | $1,650~ |
| Black/White (B/W) Papered | These puppies will have minor faults, making it unstable for breeding, but it's believed it shouldn't be passed onto future pups. Faults may include an over/under bite, heavy/lowset ears, long muzzles and more. | $1,650~ |
What is going to be included in the adoption fee?
A reputable breeder should include up-to-date vaccinations, a health checkup from a licensed veterinarian, a health guarantee and oftentimes a microchip, spay/neuter and/or travel crate if being shipped. Inside the health guarantee, the breeder should guarantee against hip dysplasia, a common health issue found with this breed.
Before you’re able to adopt your new puppy, most breeders will ask for an upfront down payment, usually around $200 to $400 to secure your dog if it’s not available yet. Most breeders won’t let you take the dog home until it’s eight to 12 weeks old. Once you confirm the adoption by signing the adoption papers, this deposit will then be applied to the final contract purchase.
What are the extra costs?
The dog is known to shed a lot because of their shorter coat and it’s recommended you frequent the groomer at least once per month if you can’t keep up with the brushing sessions.
If having the dog shipped across the United States, the cost of shipping a dog can start at $250, with an average of $450 to $500 once you include the travel crate.
Even though the dog is known to be extremely intelligent, it will still need a very dominant and firm owner. If not handled properly as a puppy, this dog can grow old to have dominance issues, either by excessive barking and/or showing aggressive behaviors. Experts warn this dog should be trained at a younger age, and at a minimum, it should be taught the basics such as sit, stay and lie down, along with crate training strategies. If trained properly, it can respond very well.
To prevent any matting and/or tangling, a weekly brushing session is required, especially if the dog has a plush coat. The plush coats, since they are longer, can often tangle sticks, burrs and leaves rather easily if it’s exposed to this environment.
Tips to know:
Like the German Shepherd, this breed can weigh quite a bit, averaging 100 to 160 pounds, with males often heavier, capping out at 160. The average height will be between 27 and 30 inches tall.
The coat can come in two varieties: as either a smooth coat or plush variety. The smooth coat will have a thick double undercoat with a harsher outside, while the plusher coat will be dense beneath with what seems like a mane on the outside. Common colors found on the market can include solid black with a tan/grayish undertone.
Making a wonderful watchdog, this breed is known to be energetic, very friendly and is extremely protective of its territory. Because of this, it’s not recommended for the average dog owner.
If healthy, it can live 10 to 13 years.
Be forewarned that this dog is often considered a “fad” breed, and whenever this happens, you may find a lot of unacknowledged breeders who attempt to breed. The result, unfortunately, can lead to a poor appearance, temperament issues and/or a variety of health problems. According to YourPureBredPuppy.com, the original Shiloh Shepherd Club is the International Shiloh Shepherd Registry, known as the ISSR.
While this dog doesn’t need to run miles per day, you will want to make sure they have enough time throughout the day to disperse their energy. Since they can become bored, it’s ideal to have a large yard to roam and plenty of walks to keep them entertained.
The dog can do great with other dogs and household pets, but it should be mentioned they should be introduced at a younger age. Due to their natural instincts, they can become aggressive toward strange dogs.
Serious health problems do persist with this breed, including hip problems, stomach disorders and skin conditions. They are susceptible to the same health conditions German Shepards suffer from.
Due to the appearance and heritage of the German Shepherd, this dog may be banned in certain areas or even refused on some homeowner insurance policies.
The breed is susceptible to separation anxiety and can/will bark, howl or cry when away from its owner for hours at a time.
How can I save money?
While this breed won’t commonly be found at a local Humane Society or rescue center, it doesn’t hurt to look. Rescuing a puppy and/or adult is a wonderful way to support a local organization and help a dog in need of a home.
How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost?
According to the AKC, the Shih Tzu is of the imperial variety and has a baby doll face with straight legs and a button nose. These dogs come in an array of colors, including exotic colors such as chocolate, red and blue.
How much does a Shih Tzu cost?
The cost of Shih Tzu puppies will depend on the gender, age, quality, parents, geographical location, its inclusions and breeder selling the dog. On average, this breed can cost anywhere from $300 without papers to as much as $1,550. However, it’s not uncommon to find older dogs for less than $200 at a local shelter since this breed tends to be very common, but a high-quality show breed could easily cost more than $1,000. Price matters when purchasing any dog, and if the price falls outside of this range, you should question the seller selling the dog. Free or lower priced dogs are often susceptible to health problems, such as hip dysplasia, and often don’t meet the breed standards.
You will often find AKC dogs will cost more than CKC (Continental Kennel Club) dogs. Why? The AKC is the strictest registry in the United States since they keep a close eye on all breeders; if these breeders don’t meet its standards, the breeder will be taken out of the program. The CKC, on the other hand, is often known to allow any breeder with two “witness” signatures to be considered certified.
According to AllShihTzu.com, the average price commonly seen on the market will be between $500 to $900 and will greatly vary across the United States. The website goes on to say that the price will matter 99 percent of the time, but there will be that rare instance where an owner may have to give up their dog due to personal health concerns.
At the time of this writing, for instance, we found close to 800 classified listings on the website, PuppyFind.com. Here, breeders listed their puppies, commonly ages five to 12 weeks old, for $600 to more than $1,500. The average breeder here, at least most of them, included the registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccinations, a vet exam and some sort of health guarantee.
Glancing at the official AKC Marketplace, we had found most breeders list their puppies for anywhere from $900 to $1,600, with females often costing $200 to $400 more.
What is going to be included in the adoption fee?
A reputable breeder should include a health guarantee, health examination from a licensed vet, up-to-date vaccinations and a travel crate if being shipped. Also, breeders and/or rescue centers should also include a microchip, spay/neutering and small starter kit with valuable necessities to get you started.
What are the extra costs?
If having the dog shipped via an airline or ground transportation company, the cost of shipments can start at $200 and go up from there, depending on how far the dog has to be shipped.
Ongoing costs, as with any dog breed should be considered. This will include the high-quality dog food, grooming sessions, accessories, toys, shelter and surprise/routine vet visits. When getting started, you also have to purchase first-time items if you don’t have them such as a dog leash, food bowls, dog bed, harness, toys and blankets.
Tips to know
The dog is known to be very playful, affectionate, outgoing and extremely charming. It tends to good well with children who are able to hand pets accordingly and other dogs as well.
Both males and females measure nine to 11 inches tall and can weigh nine to 17 pounds.
Common coat colors include eight solid colors: black, gold, white, red, gold, brindle, liver and blue. You may also find a mixture of the two, include white with a mix of black, blue, brindle, gold, liver, red or silver.
If healthy, the breed can live 10 to 17 years.
Always try to purchase from a local registered breeder you can visit in person. This will give you the chance to see how the dogs are raised and even give you the opportunity to visit the parents if they are on site. If a breeder doesn’t let you visit their location, this is a red flag and is often considered a “backyard breeder.”
The Imperial Shih Tzu, which commonly refers to as a tiny teacup Shih Tzu, should be regarded as what they are, according to the American Shih Tzu Club — a myth. Unethical breeders who create this breed often do not conform to a breed standard and won’t be similar to a standard Shih Tzu
How can I save money?
Check local rescue groups or the Humane Society to see if an older dog is available for adoption. Even if you can’t find a purebred, you may be able to find a popular mix such as a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix or Shih Tzu Pomeranian mix. Before adopting, however, be sure to look into the dog’s past to see what you’re getting yourself into as some dogs could have behavioral issues.
