FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. How much do you charge?

Rates vary according to language combination, complexity of the subject matter, volumes and amount of time required to complete the assignement.. The standard measurement is the “cartella” or page. However, in some instances (texts in PowerPoint, drawings, graphics, captions, tables or texts provided with translation memories, for example), we use the number of words. Costs for special projects such as graphic design are calculated according to the number of hours required to complete the job. At TDR Translation Company, we strive to provide the highest quality and most competitive translation rates in the industry.

2. What exactly is a “cartella”?

The “cartella” is the unit of measurement used for translation services according to the UNI EN 15038: 2006 standard. A “cartella” corresponds to 1,375 characters spaces included (equivalent to a page of 25 lines with 55 characters per line). To calculate the number of “cartelle” in a Word file, go to the main menu and click Word Count on the Tools menu. Divide the number of characters (with spaces) by 1,375.

3.How long does it take to complete a translation?

This varies according to the language combination and complexity of the subject matter. A professional translator can translate on average 10 pages (“cartelle”) per day or 2,100 words. If special services like graphic design are required, then slightly more time will be needed.

4. Do you provide editing/proof reading services?

Editing and proof reading are related services and can be priced seperately. For example, if you had a translation performed by another company or person, we can charge a rate that is lower than the standard translation rate. This rate depends on the quality of the translation and may vary from 50 to 70% of the full translation rate.

5. How much do interpreting services cost?

To calculate the cost of an interpreting job , we need to understand what type of service is required by considering the environment the interpreter will be working in, the number of languages, the number of speakers, the number of participants and the type of technical equipment required.

6. How are quotes handled?

Quotes can be requested by fax or email or by filling in the online estimate request form. We recommend attaching the file you want translated to get a quicker response. The quote is formalised by the sales manager who will send a detailed estimate listing costs, time required and method of execution. Once our project managers have received the signed and stamped estimate, work can begin.

7. How are any integrations or corrections handled once the translated document has been delivered?

TDR Translation Company will make any corrections to style and grammar free of charge whereas changes or integrations requested once the translated text has been delivered will be invoiced. Any changes to the layout sent by TDR Translation Company will also be invoiced.

8. How can I be sure that the contents of my documents will not be divulged to third parties?

The Code of Practice, for translation and interpreting companies who are members of Federlingue, obliges suppliers and translators to maintain confidentiality.
The contents of any type of document that is sent to TDR Translation Company become confidential and private.
All TDR Translation Company translators sign a confidentiality agreement and are bound by professional secrecy. As a further guarantee to clients, TDR Translation Company is willing to sign a specific agreement of non-disclosure to ensure discretion.

9. What type of professional resources are used for translations?

TDR Translation Company only assigns translations to native-speaking professional translators who specialise in a specific subject area. Our translators are selected in accordance with the UNI EN 15038: 2006 standard and our clients can ask for the same translators to ensure uniformity of style and terminology.

10. How can I be sure that the translated text is correct?

TDR Translation Company offers a free quality control service. All translations are edited and proof read by a second translator who checks their quality before they are delivered.

11. What is Computer Aided Translation (CAT)??

Computer Aided Translation enables translators to create and update a specific terminological database for each client so that terms that are used and approved in a specific translation can be reused in another project for the same company resulting in significant savings in time and costs.

12. What is a multilingual project?

TDR Translation Company offers its clients the opportunity to translate documents (i.e. brochures, press releases, websites, etc) into several languages. Our Project Managers are responsible for coordinating the client, translation team and the person who is responsible for the entire project. They must guarantee uniformity of style, terminology and quality and adapt the translated message to the culture of the country where it will be used.