Free Interpreter Quote Template
Interpreters quote before events because simultaneous and consecutive interpreting carry very different day rates, and equipment hire for simultaneous work adds significant cost. A quote confirms the language pair, the format, and the travel and preparation fees before the event date.
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What should an interpreter put on a quote?
An interpreting quote sets out the planned assignment and the price before the event, such as simultaneous conference work, consecutive sessions, and preparation. List the mode, the hours, and prep time, and note that overruns add to the figure. Until the client accepts the booking, the price stays an estimate.
Typical line items
- Conference interpreting (simultaneous, 4 hours)
- Consecutive interpreting (2 hours)
- Preparation time and materials review
- Half-day or full-day rate
- Equipment hire (booth, headsets)
- Travel and accommodation (estimated)
- Overtime rate beyond booked hours
- Cancellation policy note
How the work is charged
Interpreters usually quote a half-day or full-day rate by mode, with preparation, equipment, and travel itemised. Time beyond the booked hours is charged at a stated overtime rate.
Payment terms and deposits
A quote often proposes a deposit to confirm the booking, with the balance after the assignment. The price holds for a stated period and is an estimate until accepted, so note the cancellation terms.
Tax and compliance
If you are registered for sales tax or VAT, show it as a separate line with your registration number. Confirm the tax treatment that applies to language services where you work.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a professional interpreter charge?
Conference interpreters charge €350 to €750 per day for consecutive work. Simultaneous interpreting (using a booth) costs €450 to €900 per day and typically requires two interpreters working in alternating 30-minute shifts. Telephone and video interpreting for shorter sessions costs €80 to €150 per hour.
What should an interpreting quote include?
Quote separately for preparation time (reviewing materials, glossaries), the interpreting session itself, travel and accommodation if applicable, and equipment hire. If you need a second interpreter for simultaneous work, include both fees. Clients often underestimate the preparation time needed for technical or specialised content.
Do interpreters charge for events that are cancelled?
Yes. Cancellations with less than 14 days' notice typically incur a 50% fee. Last-minute cancellations (under 48 hours) are often charged at full rate because the interpreter has blocked their calendar and turned down other work. State your cancellation policy clearly in the quote.
Related quote templates
Read the complete quoting guide to see how to price a job and turn an accepted quote into an invoice.
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