Have you ever wondered why you receive vastly different quotes for the same Japanese-English translation project from different translation services?
The answer lies in the intricacies of translation pricing. In this article, we will demystify the pricing process and provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions.
Understanding the Intangible Nature of Translation Services
Unlike purchasing a tangible item like a smartphone, translation is a service that can't be physically examined or compared by simply looking at specifications. This inherent intangibility makes it challenging to measure and compare quotes from different service providers. While some may argue that it's just a "Japanese to English translation project," comparing translations is more like comparing apples to oranges.
The Devil is in the Details: Factors Affecting Translation Pricing
To obtain an accurate price for professional translation services that can be compared across vendors, it's important to consider the following guidelines:
Translation Type: Translation services come in various forms, such as human translation, computer translation, post-editing machine translation, translation crowdsourcing, and translation cloud. Each type varies in quality and cost. Japanese human translation services provide the highest quality but come at a higher price, while computer translation offers lower quality and sometimes even free options (like Google Translate). Other types of translation fall somewhere in between in terms of cost and quality. To ensure an apples-to-apples comparison, use the same type of translation for accurate pricing.
Pricing Structure: Translation services in Japan typically use a standard structure to calculate pricing based on parameters such as language combination (e.g., English to Japanese translation), subject matter (e.g., finance, legal, technical), volume (number of words or pages), turn-around time (higher rates for express jobs), and applicable discounts. To compare prices effectively, ensure that all these parameters are consistent.
Express Jobs: If you require urgent translation services, be prepared for additional costs. Express delivery fees can increase prices by up to 100% above regular rates. To obtain comparable pricing across vendors, keep the turn-around time parameter consistent.
HINT
By planning ahead and avoiding rush jobs, you can save significantly.
Value Added Services: Sometimes, translation projects may require more than just translation. For instance, if you need professional web copywriting for your translated Japanese materials, additional costs may apply, similar to hiring a professional copywriter for the original content. Be aware of these additional services and their associated costs.
Putting an End to the Mystery of Translation Pricing
Now that you understand the factors influencing translation pricing, you can confidently request quotes from various Translation Services in Japan. Armed with the knowledge of what to compare, you'll be able to obtain apples-to-apples quotes and choose the best rate for your project.
In conclusion, translation pricing may have seemed like a mystery before, but now it's clear that understanding the specific parameters and types of translation involved is the key to making accurate comparisons. By following these guidelines, you'll be empowered to navigate the world of professional Translation Services Japan, and find the right provider that offers competitive pricing for your translation needs.
