Pricing guide
Translator Pricing Guide
How translators can price per-word work, localization, proofreading, rush projects, and minimum fees.
Start with a floor rate
A translator should first calculate the minimum hourly rate needed to cover income goals, expenses, taxes, time off, and non-billable work. The floor rate is not always the quote; it is the line below which the work becomes unhealthy.
Costs to include
- research
- terminology checks
- proofreading
- rush scheduling
Package ideas
- per-word translation
- localization review
- document proofreading
Pricing checklist
- Define the deliverable, revision limit, and response time.
- Charge more for rush work, unclear scope, or high coordination load.
- Use a deposit or milestone billing when delivery risk is high.
- Review the margin before accepting fixed-price work.
After calculating your floor rate, use the profit margin calculator to test whether a project quote still works after direct costs and payment fees.