Q: How much will it cost to translate my document?

A: Many factors come into play when drawing up a quote for a translation project, not least the length and level of difficulty. In Germany, prices are based on lines of 55 characters (including spaces). In the United States, translation fees are generally calculated per word. This fee includes translation, accuracy checks and proofreading. Documents requiring overnight turnaround may carry a surcharge. Print Translations does not a quote for a project without having seen the source text. Please contact me and we can discuss how to proceed. All transaction enquiries are handled as promptly and efficiently as possible. Please note that Kansas City is seven hours behind CET.

Q: Someone else offered to translate my document for a third of what you charge. Why should I pay you more?

A: Spending money on a high-quality translation by a specialised native speaker shows that you care about your image and how your company is viewed abroad. Translations are a bad place to start cutting corners. Bad translations can be costly and embarassing, while good translations can convey professionalism and credibility. I have in-depth, specialist knowledge of the environmental field that allows me to produce well-written texts and I never subcontract translation work. I work hard to forge strong relationships with my clients and time and again I am selected as their preferred translator.

Q: I am a German company that is a little concerned about working with a translator on the other side of the world. What can you do to allay my fears?

A: First of all, I should let you know that the time difference really does have its benefits. Kansas City is seven hours behind Germany, but I make sure that I get up early to check my e-mail well before the end of business in Europe. Any e-mails will be answered by 3pm in the European afternoon at the absolute latest. The time difference also means that you can send me documents (up to 2,000 words on average) to translate at the end of your workday and they will be back on your desk by the start of business the next day with no rush charge. Doesn't that sound nice?

Q: I have a document in English I need translating into German. Can you help me?

A: Print Translations only offers services from German into English. Try the website of your national translators' association (www.atanet.org in the U.S. or www.bdue.de in Germany) to find a qualified translator.

Q: Can you recommend an environmental translator working in a different language pair?

A: I am currently putting together a list of fellow environmental translators to refer to customers. If you are a translator and would like to be added, please send me a quick e-mail (you will find my address on the contact page).

Q: What methods of payment do you accept?

A: Print Translations has bank accounts in Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States. I prefer to be paid by wire transfer in Europe and by cheque in North America. All invoices should be paid no later than 30 days after the invoice date unless alternative arrangements have previously been made.