Document translation tips: how to translate better and cheaper

Here are some tips on how to reduce translation costs and get the best price

We explain how much it costs to order a text translation, where to find document translation services and how to do it at the best price. We are looking for the best possible option! Our tips for finding a translation agency and translator are for those who want to translate as cheaply as possible.

In our opinion, the best option for cheap text translation is Google Translate, but it will only be suitable for private purposes, for example, to understand the meaning of the text. We will discuss this in more detail at the end of the article. First of all, let’s find out how much professional translation costs and how the price of text translation is formed.

How much does it cost to translate a text?

First, let’s look at how much it costs to translate a text from English into Russian. Determining a specific translation price is difficult because the topics and types of text to be translated can be different.

You can read more about the types of translations in the article “What are the types of texts to be translated?”

For example, there are translation agencies that deal with the translation of legal texts, just as there are agencies that deal with the translation of technical texts. So if you need to translate a legal text, you will definitely be able to do it cheaper in an agency that specializes in it, but to see it the first time is almost impossible.

Each translation agency has its own price list. For example, translation from English into Russian will not be expensive, because this combination of languages is common, so there are enough translators. It is therefore advisable to inquire about translation prices at different translation agencies.

Checklist before you order a document translation

Before you send your files to a translation agency, go through this short checklist. It will help you save money, avoid corrections and receive a translation that is ready to submit to authorities or business partners.

1. Check the final version of your document.
   Make sure names, dates, numbers and addresses are correct. Every change after translation means extra costs and extra time.
2. Prepare clear scans or PDFs.
   Blurry photos, shadows or cut-off stamps make it harder and slower to work. If possible, send a clean PDF instead of several phone pictures.
3. Tell where you will submit the translation.
   USCIS, Home Office, embassy, court, university or employer – each has slightly different rules. Mention this right away so the translator can prepare the correct format and certification.
4. Decide if you need certified, notarized or simple translation.
   Not every document needs notarization or Apostille. Asking the agency which option is enough for your case can reduce the final price.
5. Bundle documents together.
   If you know you will need several translations (for example, birth certificate, marriage certificate and diploma), order them in one project. Many agencies offer better prices for bigger jobs.
6. Ask for a written quote and deadline.
   A clear price per word or per page, plus the delivery date, protects you from surprises and helps you compare offers between agencies.
7. Clarify the delivery format.
   Do you need a signed PDF only, or also printed copies by post or courier? Agree this in advance to avoid last-minute stress before your appointment with the authority.

If you follow this checklist, you will make the translator’s work easier and usually pay less for the same quality. You can also request a price quote from Littera24 and compare it with other providers.

Common mistakes when trying to save money on translation

Everyone wants cheaper translation, but some ways of “saving” create much bigger problems later. Here are common mistakes we see and how to avoid them.

• Using machine translation for official documents.
  Free tools are fine to understand the meaning of a text, but they are not accepted by authorities or courts. A wrong date or mistranslated term can cause rejection of your application.
• Choosing the lowest price without checking experience.
  Extremely low rates often mean no quality control and no responsibility. Always check how long the agency has been working and whether they specialise in legal, medical or other sensitive fields.
• Not explaining the purpose of the translation.
  If you simply say “translation needed” and do not mention USCIS, Home Office or university, the agency may prepare a basic translation that is not certified or formatted correctly for your case.
• Sending unfinished drafts to translate.
  When you change the original text after translation has started, you pay twice for the same sentences. Always try to send the final version.
• Ordering at the last minute.
  Urgent jobs are more expensive because translators have to work evenings or weekends. If you plan ahead and give a realistic deadline, you usually get a better price.

Smart savings come from planning, not from cutting quality. If you are unsure what level of service you need, you can always ask Littera24 to recommend the most cost-effective option for your situation.

Translate a text with a discount

Sometimes it is possible to encounter discount promotions from translation agencies.

• There are translation agencies where special promotions appear from time to time, within which it becomes especially advantageous to translate a text. Such campaigns usually take place in January.
• There are a lot of budget options when you get special offers when you sign up for news.
• Another way is if you are planning to translate texts constantly and are looking for a translation agency.

You can sign a cooperation agreement and receive a special price. This type of cooperation is more suitable for legal entities.

What is important when working with translation agencies and how to choose a translation service provider?

Here are some criteria for finding the best translation agencies:

1. Online translation agency finder
2. Flexibility
3. Experience
4. Test translation request

1. Order and pay for translations online

Why is a translation agency more expensive? The reason is the human factor – cunning and dishonest employees in companies encourage the client to buy more expensive translations in every possible way. They basically do not want to sell cheap translations for 10–20 euros – they do not have enough money for such transactions, they need more gold!

Where to look for cheap online translation agencies? Recommendation: Google, Yandex and Littera24. All three options are reliable and easy to use. Choose the option that suits you best.

2. You are flexible in terms of deadlines and dates

Clients often have many restrictions on fixed translation deadlines. However, we recommend ordering a translation with a time reserve. If the translator has to work at night, be prepared to pay extra for the speed. Timely translations will help you save money.

You can read more about how to order a translation online in this article: “How to order a translation online?”

3. Pay attention to the experience

If you have already chosen a translation agency, it is worth finding out how many years this translation agency has been operating in the field. This is important because professionalism comes with experience.

For example, the translation agency Littera24 has more than 10 years of experience in translation and many satisfied clients. Littera24 is your online translator that has many professional native translators. All translators have relevant education and/or professional translation experience in the translation field.

4. Test translation request

If you need to translate large amounts of text, we recommend that you request a translation test from a translation agency. Please note that the volume should not exceed 1 page, which is usually no more than 250 words.

Now you know the tips on how to reduce translation costs and you will be able to independently, quickly and easily find a high-quality and profitable translation agency at the best price.