When it comes to getting quotes for professional Japanese translation, three really is the magic number.

But simply gathering three quotes isn’t enough to secure the most competitive rates. To make those quotes meaningful, you need to ensure they are comparable—and that means focusing on key factors like your requirements, the type of translation, and the translation company you choose.

Ensure the Translation Company Meets All Your Requirements

Does the Japanese translation company have the expertise and resources to handle everything your project needs? If not, they might outsource part or all of the work, which could increase costs. Choosing a professional translation company with in-house capabilities ensures better control over pricing and quality.

Specify the Type of Translation You Require

This is one of the most critical aspects of getting meaningful quotes. Different types of translations—such as certified, technical, or creative translations—come with varying costs. To compare quotes effectively, make sure all companies are quoting for the same type of Japanese translation service.

Don’t Overlook Quality vs. Cost

Once you have comparable quotes, it’s time to apply a measure of common sense. The highest price doesn’t always guarantee the best quality, but a rate that’s too low might be a red flag for subpar results. Balance affordability with the assurance of professional translation to avoid costly reworks down the line.

Compare Apples to Apples, Not Apples to Oranges

The key to meaningful quotes is consistency. Ensure that each company’s quote aligns with your project’s requirements, so you can make an informed decision without comparing mismatched services. This means providing the exact same project requirements to all the vendors you are requesting a quote from.

Conclusion

By focusing on your needs and getting three comparable quotes—either all apples or all oranges—you’ll set yourself up for success. Add a pinch of common sense, and you’ll find a competitive rate for high-quality Japanese translation from a reliable company. Importantly, the right quote is about more than just price; it’s about finding the right partner to deliver the results you need.

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About the Author
Ivan Vandermerwe is the CEO of SAECULII YK, the owner of Japan, Tokyo based Professional Japanese Translation Visit SAECULII for the latest professional case studies, articles and news on Japanese Translation Services

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