Factors Affecting the Translation Cost

The price is directly influenced by three main factors: the language combination, the complexity level of the source text, and the turnaround time. Let’s take a closer look at each of them.

1. Language Combination — from Common to Rare. The language combination refers to the original language and the target language of the translation. It determines the base rate per page or per 1800 characters including spaces.

2. Common languages such as English, German, French, and Spanish are usually cheaper. The ease of finding qualified translators and high competition lower the price.

3. Rare and exotic languages — for example, Hungarian, Korean, Arabic, Japanese, Finnish — require specific knowledge and often higher education. Such specialists are less common, so translation rates are higher.

4. Additionally, some language combinations require translation through a third language. This increases both cost and turnaround time.

5. Text Complexity — General Vocabulary or Specialized Terminology?

     •  Not all texts are the same in content and complexity. This directly affects the translator’s workload and, consequently, the price.

     •  General texts — personal documents, business correspondence, travel descriptions — usually have simple vocabulary and don’t require deep subject knowledge. Translating such texts costs less and is done faster.

     •  Specialized texts — technical manuals, legal documents, medical reports, scientific articles — require a deep understanding of terminology and precise, accurate translation. Such materials often undergo thorough editorial and linguistic review, adding to the cost.

     •  Creative and marketing texts: accuracy is important, but also is adapting the content to the target audience while considering cultural nuances. These projects demand skill and experience from the translator.

6. Turnaround Time

 The faster the translation is needed, the higher the price. Why?

    •  Urgent orders require rescheduling translators’ work hours, possibly including weekends and nights.

    •  Agencies often hire additional specialists to maintain quality and meet deadlines.

    •  The less time available, the fewer opportunities there are to review and proofread the material — this can increase the risk of errors, which is factored into quality control.

If a translation is ordered with sufficient time, the cost is usually optimal.

Translation cost is a complex figure derived from many interconnected factors. When you contact a professional agency, you will always receive consultation and help selecting the best option according to your budget and needs.

If you want an accurate cost estimate for your project, feel free to reach out to us. We will do everything to ensure the translation is high-quality, accurate, and as cost-effective as possible for you.