Frequently Asked Questions
What are your working languages?
Our working languages are English and Spanish. If you require a different language combination, however, we can help you find a linguist for your project.
How much will my project cost?
Each project has its own needs and specifications. To present a quote we need to receive the whole text, as quotes are based on industry-standard rates and on the number of words in the source text, the complexity of the source text, the format, the turnaround time, and the amount of specialization involved.
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There is a minimum fee for all translation projects.
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Documents of one page are charged at the minimum fee.
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Sometimes we have to switch to our price per project if the per word structure is not suitable for the project text i.e. company names, slogans, and small projects where the word count is less than 200 words.
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Rush jobs, weekend work, and non-editable formats (i.e. PDF documents) may be subject to an additional charge.
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For proofreading and/or editing, we charge a flat rate per hour (approximately 1,000 words per hour); the total price will depend on the complexity of the documents. We will estimate the maximum number of hours required to proofread and/or edit your text when quoting. To present a quote we need the whole original text.
How long will it take for my documents to be translated?
Every project has unique needs and specifications. The time we take to translate your texts will depend on many factors such as our availability, the project size, the text complexity, the subject matter, and the condition of the original text (i.e. handwritten documents, PDF documents). We don’t offer a “one-size-fits-all” solution or service.
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Providing reference material, glossaries, style guides, or contact for terminology questions will speed things up and ensure consistency across your communications.
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Please send over your text(s) for a free quotation and estimated deadline.
Is there a minimum fee for translation?
Yes, the minimum fee for all translation projects is US $60.
What are your surcharges?
There is a surcharge of +30% for PDF and non-editable formats, as well as for weekend work, 24-hour work and same-day service. An additional charge may apply for projects after work hours.
What are your payment methods and terms?
You can pay through check, PayPal (client assumes fees), and bank transfer (for large projects and international clients only) in US dollars.
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Payment is requested in advance.
In what format should I send you my documents?
We can work with most formats, as long as it is editable. Working with source files such as .docx speeds up considerably the process and allows us to preserve the original layout. As for PDF files, we usually convert them into an editable format and then translate the editable file.
What is the difference between a certified and a notarized translation?
A certified translation is a document translated by a professional translator and accompanied by a signed Certificate of Accuracy. A notarized translation bears a notary’s seal and is an additional service that involves adding the signature of a notary to your document. We are here to help.
What is a sworn translator and do you have any available?
A sworn translator is a translator who has been certified by the government of his or her residence and can directly stamp their translations as accurate and faithful to the original document. The system in the U.S. and many other countries works differently and we combine our certification with a notary’s signature to achieve the equivalent standard.
Do I really need a proofreader or editor?
It is recommended, although the translator will do everything in its power to make sure your document is translated correctly, it is always a good idea to have a ‘second set of eyes’ review your document. Though this is a separately paid service, we highly encourage all of our clients to utilize it.
Do you work with documents generated through machine translation applications?
Please notice that we will not proofread or edit documents generated by machine translation applications. In recent times, some clients have gotten the idea that they can save money by running text through a machine translation application and then have a professional translation company or translator proofread or edit the work. Our experience has taught us that these requests are to be avoided, since it may take more time to achieve high-quality translations through proofreading or editing machine translations than translating from scratch
I am not sure what I need. Can you help?
Of course, we can help. We can set a time to chat and we would be happy to talk you through your options, from proofreading to in-depth editing, cultural adaptation and starting from scratch. Even if you don’t have a specific need right now, get in touch so that we can advise you and make sure we are free when you need us.
I don’t really like what I have. Can you use my ideas and start again?
Of course, we can help. We would be happy to take a look at your existing text and advise you on the options. We can look at editing, adaptation, or translating from scratch, depending on what you need and what it’s for. Even if you don’t have a specific need right now, get in touch so that we can advise you and make sure we are free when you need us.
When can I contact you?
We are available on weekdays between 9 am and 5 pm (EST). We aim to respond to emails within 24 hours on working days. If we are away or unavailable, we always set up an automatic response so you know when to expect a reply.