How do I decide a fee

[Octavia]

Hello:

I was offered to translate a user's manual and I am not sure what I my fee should be.

Thus far I've done meeting minutes, birth certificates, resumes; etc. But this would be my first big project and I am at a loss on the rate.

Can anyone advise?

[Veronica]

Hi Octavia!

You started a pretty interesting thread here.

As far as I know, the rates are given by the languages you work in the first place, and then some other factors.
Generally experienced translators can charge more, because they base the expensive rate to the fact that they know the subject, offer a quality service, etc.
Also specific and difficult subject are more expensive, it's not easy to find an aerospace translator than one who can translate a kitchen recipe.
Finally, I usually give a discount on volume.

The rate you decide depends on many things, but it's ultimately, your choice.

Cheers!

[Hebe]

Hi Octavia. If it is a local client, I would start out on the bases of the local market rate and then I would take into consideration everything that veronica has pointed out (subject difficulty, volume, experience, etc.)

International clients are a different issue altogether, as the fees differ fom local fees and may depend on the countries involved

Hope this helps

[matkovichvanesa]

Hi everyone! I'd like to know how much should I charge(in argentina) per word for the following:a legal document containing 80 pages(approximately) and the deadline is 2 weeks. I'd appreciate it if you could help me decide on the fee. thanks! Vane

[andreap]

Hello Octavia,
I think you should judge by the level of difficulty and the number of words offered. Also, if you need to gain experience, maybe you can use these projects to learn.

[Coolplantman]

Hello Octavia. You´ve probably figured out your fees by now. However, I´d like to post my humble opinion...
You should work out a formula based on the going market rate, size of document (to establish minimum fee and discount fees) and figure out a way to preview job so you can establish the time it will take you to do the job. Ask yourself how much is your time worth. ie. 5 pages of legal work per hour. 500 words per page= 2,500 words per hour. If your time is worth $100pesos per hour your going rate will be 25 centavos per word.
If the going market rate is $XX per word you will then know where you stand in the general scope of pricing your services. Depending on your translation abilities you will have a greater return if you submit the completed job before the deadline.
I hope this makes sense.