How to Find the Best Foreign Language Translation Service

The search for a timely, accurate foreign language document translation service at a reasonable cost can be challenging. For simple tasks for personal use, online tools such as Google Translate can be sufficient. In the event that you need a more complex project translated, or accuracy is a must, there are many translation services to choose from. Here are my six rules for your search for a good certified translation service.

1. You should be able to make personal contact with the document translation service you contract easily and promptly.

The speed in which the translation company is able to respond to your request, arrange a quote with a translator and subsequently turn around the project is a sure-fire indicator of the service's professionalism. If you are unable to get in touch with a representative that same day, move along.

2. Look for translation companies that are large enough to handle your request, but not TOO large.

You should be wary of a service that claims to offer document translation to and from hundreds of foreign languages. How likely is it that they have hundreds of translators ready and able to professionally handle such variety? Not likely. A good document translation service will have a large number of translators so they can match the subject matter of your document with a qualified translator.

3. Don't be afraid to demand that the company have a physical address.

You want to make sure that the translation company is credible, and a physical address is one of the best ways to verify this. Another way to verify credibility is to look up the name of the company on the Better Business Bureau website. Are they even listed?

4. Ensure that your service will notarize and certify your translated document.

It's crucial that the translation you are looking for will be certified by the translation company and notarized by a notary public. This ensures that 1) multiple eyes have reviewed the document, 2) the company stands behind its work and 3) you have recourse and contact information if discrepancies are found.

5. Stay away from the highest AND lowest price.

With translations, you usually get what you pay for. On the other hand, companies that charge too much are often doing so to compensate for the incredibly high marketing expenses that have attracted you to their site. The highest price isn't necessarily the highest quality.

6. Do they stand by their quote 100%?

A discrepancy between a quoted price and the price you are charged is certainly undesirable. A company that stands behind its original quote is confident in its work. By making sure the customer is able to rely on a set price, the company shows dedication to customer service. Make sure your translation company puts you at the top of their priorities with a willingness to stand behind their work.

By following these simple guidelines, you can certainly find a trustworthy, fairly-priced certified translation service for your documents. Once you have found a good company to do business with, don't hesitate to give them positive reviews and good referrals to help others also find a reputable translation service as well.


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Sam helps customers save money and avoid getting ripped off in a variety of industries, including foreign language document translation services. You can request a free quote from a certified translation service today.