Balancing the Budget: Outsourcing Business ServicesBalancing the Budget: Outsourcing Business Services


About Me

Balancing the Budget: Outsourcing Business Services

My company is now over a decade old and I still outsource several key functions. It isn't that I can't afford to keep them in house. It is just that outsourcing is the most financially responsible decision I can make. I outsource all sorts of support services. One company manages my IT needs. Another partner takes care of the payroll and remitting taxes. I even have a cleaning service that comes in at night, does the windows, and in general keeps everything spotless. If you think outsourcing might benefit your business, let's talk. I'll tell you what I outsource and why. From there, you can decide if my strategy would also work for you.

Tips For Relocating Your Houseplants, Aquarium And Fish

You've gone to every local grocery store to collect cardboard boxes and bought every roll of packing tape you could find in preparation for your household moves. Everything starts off smoothly and now that you're nearly finished, it hits you there are a few items in your home that cannot be neatly placed inside a box: your fish, aquarium and houseplants. Help ensure these fragile items make it to their new home by following these simple tips:

Relocating Your Houseplants

The expense of replacing all your houseplants would be far too great, which is why you've decided to move them to your new home. However, before you deal with the hassle and expense, it's important to determine which plants are worth taking.

For example, consider giving a friend or family member any plants that are fragile or inexpensive to replace.

The process of relocating your plants begins by transferring any that are in bulkier ceramic or clay pots into plastic containers, which are lighter and easier to transport. Start by carefully lifting each plant from it's original container and removing any excess soil from around the root system. Examine the roots and if they're green, lush and soft, the plant is viable. Conversely, if the roots are brittle, brown and dry, the plant probably won't survive the move.

Transfer the plants to a plastic container at least two to three weeks before the move to give them time to adjust to this new environment.

Once you're ready to move, carefully lower the plants into cardboard boxes and plastic totes. Take the plants in your car with you instead of placing them in the moving truck or van. The van or truck will be far too hot for the plants to survive.

When you arrive at your new home, take them out of your car immediately and place them in a spot that is ideal for variety of plants you have.

It's alright to transfer the plants to a decorative pot at anytime. However, don't be surprised if your plants need a few days or weeks to come back to life. There might be a few lost leaves, but eventually, your plants will adjust to their new home!

Moving With Your Fish and Aquarium

Much like your houseplants, your pet fish must be moved with care. If your fish are inexpensive and easily replaced, How Stuff Works recommends considering giving them to a fish-loving friend or family member.

However, if you can't part with your water-loving family members, it's important to transport your fish correctly:

  • Purchase a small holding container that is large enough to accommodate all your fish. Wash out the container to remove any chemicals that are left behind after manufacturing.

  • While removing the water from the aquarium, save some for the holding tank. The fish are more likely to survive in the water they're accustomed to.

  • Carefully remove the fish one by one with a small net and place them in the holding container on the day of the move. Once the fish are out of the tank, go ahead and remove all the stones, plants and other decorative items. Carefully clean out the tank and if it's small enough, place it inside a plastic tote. Otherwise, protect the aquarium with bubble wrap.

  • Keep the holding tank with your in the car during the move. Once you're in your new home, quickly set-up your aquarium.

Watch over your fish for the first few days in your new home. If you notice any signs of illness or distress – such as lethargy, a loss of appetite, glossy eyes or damaged scales – contact a veterinarian immediately.

Moving to a new home is an exciting and exhausting experience. If you're planning to relocate your houseplants and pet fish, taking a little extra time to prepare for the journey will help ensure these delicate items arrive safely at their new home!