Buying tips

If this is the first time you have commissioned a translation, you may find the following tips useful:

Do you need a translator or an interpreter?
Translators work with written text. Interpreting is spoken. If you need an interpreter you can search the ITI database.

How much will it cost?
In the UK, translators charge per 1000 words. The price will also depend on the complexity of the text, how soon it is needed and any elaborate formatting requirements. If you have a specific job in mind, please contact me for an estimate.

How long will it take?
Again, this will depend on complexity and formatting, but you should allow at least one full working day for 2000 words. Good translations require time, concentration and thorough checking. The more time you allow, the better.

How can you save money?
- Weed out any unnecessary text before sending it for translation.

- If the German or French text is still being written, wait until it has been finalised. 

If you don't read French/German, how do you know which bits you want translated?
Ask me! I can help you identify which parts of a text are relevant to your requirements so that you won't end up paying for pages that you don't need.

How can you recognise a good translation?
A good English translation should read like an original piece of English writing. This is why professional translators translate only into their native language.

What you can do
There are several things you can do to ensure you get the best possible translation result:

- Say what the translation is for.

- Provide background material and/or in-house glossaries if you have any.

- Identify a contact person to answer any queries.

For further useful advice on buying translations you can download the free short guide "Translation - Getting it right" from the ITI website.