Understanding Pricing for Spoken Translation: A Comprehensive Guide

When you need interpreting services, understanding how pricing works can save you time and money. Costs vary widely depending on several factors, from the type of interpreting service to the urgency of delivery and topic. This guide breaks down the key elements that influence pricing, helping you make informed decisions and avoid surprises.

What Influences Interpreting (spoken translation) Costs

Interpreting services differ from document work because they involve live communication. Pricing depends on several unique factors:

Mode of Interpreting

The way interpreting is delivered affects costs:

• Remote interpreting (via phone or video) usually costs less due to no travel expenses and travel time.

• Online interpreting platforms may have fixed rates or subscription models - these may be born by the client or the interpreter.

• On-site interpreting requires the interpreter to be physically present, adding travel and time expenses.

  
  

On-site interpreting tends to be the most expensive option.

Type of Interpreting

Different interpreting styles require different skills and resources:

• Consecutive interpreting involves the interpreter speaking after the speaker pauses. It is common in business meetings and legal settings.

• Simultaneous interpreting happens in real time, often with specialized equipment. It is used in conferences and large events.

• Conference interpreting combines simultaneous and consecutive methods and may require multiple interpreters.

  
  

Simultaneous and conference interpreting usually cost more due to the skill level and equipment involved.

Travel and Transport Considerations

When interpreters travel to a location, additional costs apply:

• Travel expenses such as flights, taxis, or mileage.

• Accommodation and meals if overnight stays are necessary.

• Time spent traveling may be billed as part of the service.

  
  

For example, an interpreter traveling to a remote site for a full day will charge more than one working locally.

Topic and Liability Factors

The subject matter and legal risks influence pricing:

• Highly specialized topics like medical, legal, or technical fields require expert interpreters.

• Interpreters may charge more for sensitive or high-liability assignments.

• Confidentiality agreements or certifications can add to the cost.

  
  

Clients should expect higher fees for complex or sensitive topics.

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Tips for Managing Costs

• Provide clear, interpreting brief (who are the speakers, programme, topics, timings, locations, etc.)

• Avoid last-minute requests to prevent rush fees.

• Specify the exact type of service and mode of interpreting needed.

• Ask about minimum fees upfront.

• Consider remote interpreting to save on travel costs, even though, on some occasions, this is not advisable.

  
  

Understanding how pricing works for interpreting helps you plan your budget and choose the right provider. By considering the type of interpreting, mode, location, and interpreting mode, you can get fair pricing and quality results. Always communicate your needs clearly and ask for detailed quotes before committing.

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Vasiliki is a translator, interpreter, consultant and director of Greek to Me Translations Ltd. She works with English, Greek and French herself and has a team of trusted colleagues who can cover other languages. The offered language services serve mainly the legal, creative, marketing & advertising, fashion and media industries, including voiceover direction.

Greek to Me translations are official and certified for Greece, Cyprus, UK, Spain, Ireland, France, and EU countries, the English speaking world including the US and Canada.

Vasiliki is a Chartered Linguist, member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL), and the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI). She is registered with the Greek Consulate in the United Kingdom as a certified translator and interpreter.

She holds a BA in English Language and Linguistics and Masters in Business Translation and Interpreting. As Member of Council to the CIOL and Board Member of the IoL Educational Trust she overseas and supports the organisations' strategic goals.

Contact: +44 (0)741 1371 524, vp@grtome.com