Calculate the total cost for Company A by multiplying the cost per box by the number of boxes: $Cost_A = 14.65 \times 3 = $43.95.
Calculate the total cost for Company B, considering the first box is free: $Cost_B = 16.20 \times 2 = $32.40.
Compare the total costs: $32.40 < $43.95.
Conclude that Company B is the cheaper option: $\boxed{$32.40}.
Explanation
Problem Analysis Bryan wants to ship three medium-sized boxes and needs to find the cheapest shipping option between two companies, A and B. Company A charges $14.65 per box, while Company B offers the first box for free and charges $16.20 for each additional box. We need to calculate the total cost for each company and compare them.
Calculate Cost for Company A First, let's calculate the total cost of shipping three boxes with Company A. Since Company A charges 14.65 p er b o x , t h e t o t a l cos t i s t h ecos tp er b o x m u lt i pl i e d b y t h e n u mb ero f b o x es : C os t A = 14.65 × 3 = 43.95 $
So, the total cost for Company A is $43.95.
Calculate Cost for Company B Next, let's calculate the total cost of shipping three boxes with Company B. Company B offers the first box for free, so Bryan only needs to pay for the remaining two boxes. The cost for each additional box is 16.20. T h ere f ore , t h e t o t a l cos t i s : C os t B = 16.20 × 2 = 32.40 $
So, the total cost for Company B is $32.40.
Compare Costs Now, let's compare the total costs for both companies: Cost_A = $43.95 Cost_B = $32.40 Since $32.40 < $43.95, Company B is the cheaper option.
Final Answer Therefore, the cheapest option for Bryan is Company B, with a total cost of $32.40.
Examples
Imagine you're planning a road trip with friends and need to rent camping gear. One rental place charges a flat rate per item, while another offers a 'first item free' deal. By calculating the total cost for each option, just like Bryan did with the shipping companies, you can quickly determine the most cost-effective choice for your group, ensuring you save money for more important things like snacks and gas!