What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing Translation Services in New Zealand
Setting the right price for translation services in New Zealand can be challenging given the diversity of languages, document types, and client needs. This friendly, practical guide offers translators and language professionals useful tips to help price their services fairly while attracting and keeping clients locally.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Calculate Your Full Costs
Start with a full understanding of your costs, including software licenses, reference materials, ongoing training, and professional memberships.
For example, translators in Auckland may invest more in specialised software or workshops, while those in smaller centres might spend more time on marketing.
Factoring in your real expenses ensures your pricing is sustainable and reflects your efforts.
2. Research Current Market Rates
Research local and national rates on platforms like Yada, professional translator associations, or local directories to see what peers charge.
Rates vary by language pairs, expertise, and region-for instance, English to Maori translations may command different prices than less common language pairs.
Knowing market rates helps you stay competitive and set expectations with clients.
3. Charge by Word, Hour, or Project
Decide if you prefer charging by word count, hourly rate, or project flat fee, depending on the job type and client preferences.
Some Auckland translators charge per word for document translation, while offering hourly rates for localisation or consulting tasks.
Tailor your pricing model to fit your workflow and client needs.
4. Consider Content Complexity
Adjust rates for technical, legal, or highly specialised content requiring extra research or expertise.
For instance, legal translations in Wellington generally command higher fees than general correspondence.
Be clear with clients about how complexity impacts cost.
5. Include Proofreading and Revisions
Decide if basic proofreading and revisions are part of your price or separate services.
One Christchurch translator includes one revision round in her package but charges extra for additional edits.
Setting these guidelines upfront prevents misunderstandings.
6. Be Transparent About Extra Charges
Specify any additional fees for rush jobs, formatting, or travel if on-site work is needed.
Nelson translators often charge premiums for urgent deadlines or highly formatted document conversions.
Clear communication builds trust and smooth workflows.
7. Showcase Your Qualifications
Highlight certifications, language proficiency, and specialisations to justify your pricing.
A Tauranga translator advertises NAATI accreditation on her Yada profile, attracting higher-paying clients.
Credentials reassure clients and support premium charges.
8. Gather and Share Client Testimonials
Ask satisfied customers to provide testimonials and display these on your profiles and website.
An Auckland freelancer grew her business significantly after collecting positive reviews on Yada.
Social proof is invaluable in building client confidence.
9. List on Trusted NZ Platforms
Join platforms like Yada and TradeMe Services to increase visibility among local clients.
Yada charges no lead or success fees, letting you keep more income and offer honest pricing.
Its fast, mobile-friendly interface also makes client communication easier.
10. Communicate Pricing and Customise Quotes
Use Yada’s private chat or phone calls to discuss client needs and tailor quotes accordingly.
A Wellington linguist personalises pricing after thoroughly understanding the project’s goals and volume.
Personalised communication builds trust and encourages long-term relationships.
11. Avoid Low Pricing Pitfalls
Don’t undercut your value. Instead, emphasise quality, reliability, and professionalism.
Christchurch translators who maintain fair pricing and high standards attract steady, well-paying clients.
Kiwis appreciate honest rates backed by solid work.
12. Regularly Review Your Pricing
Update your pricing every 6 to 12 months to reflect market changes, experience growth, and client feedback.
Leverage Yada’s rating system and job insights to make informed adjustments.
Consistent reviews keep your business competitive and sustainable.
13. Build Networking and Referral Channels
Form partnerships with law firms, businesses, and community groups needing regular translation services.
An Auckland translator gained new clients by volunteering with local multicultural organisations.
Strong relationships foster repeat business and trusted referrals.