The short answer
Send a sample, language pair, intended use, deadline and required output format. Compare total cost for the same volume, review level and deliverables.
Why do quotes differ?
File format and project details affect pricing, as explained by ATA — How Much Does a Translation Cost?. An editable document and a scan may require different preparation.
Separate translation, bilingual review, terminology checks, layout and final export checks. Two offers labelled “document translation” may cover different work. Ask each supplier to name the included tasks.
What belongs in your first enquiry?
- Source files or a URL, document count and current version.
- Source and target languages, plus the intended market.
- Use: internal reference, publication, sales or an official submission.
- Final deadline and any approval milestones.
- Output format and approved reference material.
If sharing the full document is premature, send a redacted sample and describe the remaining volume. Treat the initial estimate as provisional until the complete scope has been reviewed.
Compare against one common brief
Ask suppliers to define their counting method, revision allowance, exclusions, schedule and payment terms. A page-based quote needs a definition of a page; a word-based quote needs to specify the source or target count.
An illustrative example: a 12-page brochure must be delivered as a print PDF. An offer returning only Word cannot be compared directly with one including layout and PDF checks. Add the missing production work to your budget.
Handle urgent work by priority
Identify the pages needed first and the material that can follow. Confirm feasibility against actual files. Reserve time for your own team to answer terminology questions and approve drafts.
Confirm before commissioning
ATA — How to Choose a Translation Vendor discusses evaluating a supplier’s suitability. For your project, record the source version, output files, schedule and change process in writing.
When new material is added, ask for its cost and timing impact before work proceeds. Keep one person responsible for approvals so conflicting comments do not create avoidable rework.
Frequently asked questions
Can page count alone produce a firm quote?
It can support an estimate, but text density, scan quality and layout requirements need a sample.
Can I add another target language later?
Discuss it early. The extra language needs its own confirmed scope and schedule.
References
Project checklists and examples are written by LocalizeZone. Linked references support the specific statements marked in the article.
Discuss your project
Share a sample, language pair and deadline. We will review the material before confirming scope and pricing.