Frequently Asked Questions.

Below are answers to some of the most common questions concerning our services. If you would like a free estimate, please click here. If you have any further questions, please contact us.

What is the difference between a translator and an interpreter?

A translator transposes written text from one language to another, while an interpreter takes oral communications from one language to another. To negotiate with foreign investors, to help a doctor with a non-English speaking patient, to convey a conference presentation, you will need an interpreter. To translate books, newspaper articles, contracts, correspondence, you will need the services of a translator. Interpreters concentrate in accuracy and speed. Translators focus on producing a clear, error-free, legible document in the style of the original version.

How much will a translation or interpretation cost?

This is a very hard question to answer because each project is different. There are many factors that have to be considered in the cost in addition to the translation or interpretation. These can include project management (in case of large projects) file preparation, editing, dialect or terminology research, desktop publishing, travel expenses, and other similar factors. The cost depends on the availability of the qualified interpreter or translator, the complexity of the issues to be translated or interpreted, and any specific requirements that the client may add. While translations are usually charged by the word, interpretations are charged by the hour. Desktop publishing is charged on an hourly rate.

How long will a translation take?

Although we try our best to deliver the translation as quickly as reasonably possible, there are many factors to consider: The subject matter (the more technical the job, the longer it will take to translate) format, graphics, specialized review of the project, etc. Translators are human so the speed at which they can translate is limited and varies from translator to translator.

How much notice do you need if I want to hire an interpreter?

As much notice as possible. It could be difficult to find the right interpreter depending on the type of interpretation, subject matter, language, and location. Legal interpretations require of a court certified interpreter. Good certified interpreters are very busy.

What happens if I don’t like my translation?

We believe in a close interactive relationship with the client. We will be happy to work with you throughout the entire process in order to adapt the translation to your specific needs, terminology, and style. To assure your satisfaction with our product, when the project requires it, we prepare a glossary ahead of time, and submit it to the client for comments and observations. We are willing to work with you until the project meets your approval.

How much will a transcription cost?

It depends on the media where the recording is contained, the quality of the video/ audio, and the content. Although poor quality recordings will take longer, an average recording can be transcribed at about 10 to 15 minutes for each minute recorded. The transcription is charged by the time spent transcribing. After the recording is transcribed, that transcription must be translated. Translations are charged by the word as mentioned above. At the end, the transcription/ translation fee is the result of the total time spent transcribing, and the total words of the translation in the target language.

How do I know what kind of interpretation equipment I need?

We can help you make that decision. Just contact us, explain the type of event you are going to have, answer some questions, and we will provide you with several options or a recommendation that in our experience will cover your needs. Small gatherings are usually covered using small portable units. Larger events may need a booth for the interpreters to work during the presentations.

Why should we hire your voice talent instead of using our bilingual staff?

Voice-overs and dubbings are more difficult than you think. Hiring professional voice talent guarantees you that there will be no wasted studio time, that the project will be completed according to schedule, and that native speakers will understand and like the final product. Recording studio time is expensive, missing a deadline can be disastrous, a poorly read or pronounced voice-over could become the laughing stock in your field.   All these problems can be avoided by hiring our professional talent.

How do you deliver your translations and transcriptions?

We deliver the way you tell us to deliver. Our translations can be delivered on a hard copy by regular mail, UPS, Federal Express, DHL, Airborne Express, or electronically by e-mail in MS Word, Excel or pdf formats. Different shipping and handling charges apply depending on the type of delivery.

You can submit your documents for translation by any of the above-mentioned means. We do not need an original document; we just need complete legible copies.

When and how do I pay you?

In the case of most interpretations and large translation projects, you are required to put a down payment, and payment of the balance is due upon the rendition of the interpretation services, or the delivery of the translated documents. Small translation projects such as birth certificates, school transcripts, etc. must be paid in full at the time you request the service.

You can make your payments by U.S. check or money order via regular mail, or by credit card following the steps indicated in this website. We can only accept cash when a payment is made in person. Some states charge a sales tax for the services rendered.