At Stepes, we are committed to providing exceptional translation and localization services that cater to a diverse range of client needs, while ensuring transparency and competitiveness in our pricing structure. Our pricing philosophy is rooted in offering value, efficiency, and accuracy, tailored to the unique demands of each of our clients’ projects.

Key Features of Our Pricing Approach:

1. Transparent Pricing: Stepes believes in clear and upfront pricing. Our clients are provided with detailed quotations, breaking down costs without hidden fees. This transparency ensures that you know exactly what you are paying for, aligning with industry best practices.
2. Competitive Rates: Leveraging our extensive network of professional translators and state-of-the-art technology, we are able to offer rates that are competitive within the industry. Our pricing is designed to deliver the best value for your investment, balancing cost with quality.
3. Customized Pricing Models: Understanding that each project is unique, we offer various pricing models to suit different translation needs. Whether it’s per-word rates for straightforward projects, hourly rates for specialized tasks, or project-based pricing for comprehensive assignments, our models are flexible and client-centric.
4. Technology-Driven Efficiency: Stepes leverages advanced translation technologies to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Our use of translation memory tools, glossaries, and AI-driven processes ensures that we can offer competitive pricing while maintaining the highest quality standards.
5. Market Adaptability: Our pricing strategy is adaptive to market trends and client feedback. We regularly review and adjust our pricing to stay aligned with industry standards, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible service at the most reasonable cost.
6. No Compromise on Quality: Despite our competitive pricing, there is no compromise on the quality of our translations. We adhere to strict quality control processes, employing only professional translators with expertise in their respective fields.

Stepes is strongly committed to quality, efficiency, and client satisfaction. Our pricing approach aligns with the best practices and standards of the translation industry.

1. Per Word Rate

At Stepes, our per-word rate pricing model is primarily used for translation services. The cost per word ranges from $0.09 to $0.20, depending on several key factors:

• Language Pair: The combination of source and target languages significantly influences the rate. Common language pairs might be priced at the lower end of the scale, while less common or more complex languages tend to be at the higher end.
• Content Complexity: The nature of the content being translated plays a crucial role. General text may be priced lower, whereas technical, legal, medical, or other specialized content, which requires specific expertise, may incur higher rates.
• Specialized Requirements: Any additional requirements, such as industry-specific terminologies or certifications, also affect the pricing.

This model offers flexibility and transparency, making it suitable for most standard translation projects.

2. Hourly Rates

Our hourly rates, ranging from $30 to $55, are designed for projects that require more than just straightforward translation. This includes:

• Specialized Expertise: Tasks that require specialized knowledge or skills, such as technical writing, localization consulting, or content adaptation, are billed hourly.
• Unusual Formatting and Layout Work: Projects that involve complex formatting or graphic design work, like typesetting or layout adjustments in different languages, fall under this category.
• Editing and Proofreading Services: When detailed review and editing are required, particularly for content that is highly technical or sensitive, hourly billing is applied.

Hourly rates are best for projects where the scope isn’t strictly quantifiable in words or for tasks that involve a significant amount of non-translation work.

3. Project-Based Pricing

For comprehensive projects with a defined scope and timeline, Stepes may offer a project-based flat rate. This approach is considered under circumstances like:

• Large-Scale Projects: When dealing with extensive projects, such as entire website localizations or large document translations, a flat rate provides a clear and predictable cost structure.
• Complex Projects with Multiple Components: Projects that include a mix of translation, localization, formatting, and consultation, where individual pricing would be too complex, are ideal for this model.
• Long-Term or Recurring Assignments: For ongoing projects or regular assignments from a client, a project-based rate can be more efficient and cost-effective.

Project-based pricing is beneficial for clients looking for cost certainty and for projects where the deliverables are well-defined and extend beyond simple per-word or hourly tasks.

1. Language Pair

The choice of language pair is a significant factor in determining the pricing of translation services. At Stepes, we consider the following aspects:

• Common Language Pairs: Widely spoken languages (e.g., English-Spanish, English-French) generally have a larger pool of translators available, which can lead to more competitive rates.
• Rare Language Pairs: For less common languages or language pairs with fewer translators available (e.g., English to Icelandic), the rates tend to be higher. This is due to the specialized expertise required and the lower availability of qualified translators.

We strive to offer the most competitive rates for all language pairs while ensuring the highest quality of translation.

2. Content Complexity

The complexity and specialization of the content being translated play a crucial role in pricing:

• General Content: Standard, non-specialized content typically falls into our lower pricing range.
• Specialized Content: Content that requires specific expertise, such as legal, medical, or technical translations, will be priced higher. This is due to the need for translators with specialized knowledge and experience in these fields, ensuring accuracy and adherence to industry standards.

Our pricing reflects the level of expertise and research required to deliver translations that meet the highest standards of quality and accuracy.

3. Urgency and Turnaround Time

The timeframe for completing a translation project can also influence pricing:

• Standard Turnaround: Projects with standard deadlines are priced normally, reflecting our regular workflow and resource allocation.
• Expedited Services: For projects requiring a quicker turnaround than usual, we charge a rush fee. As previously mentioned, this is typically a 20% additional charge but may increase for extremely urgent requests or projects that require work during evenings, weekends, or holidays. The fee compensates for the additional resources and efforts needed to meet the tight deadlines.

In all scenarios, we prioritize delivering high-quality translations within the required timeframe, balancing urgency with precision and accuracy.

1. Rush Fees

At Stepes, we understand the importance of meeting tight deadlines. In situations where clients require expedited translation services, rush fees may apply. These fees cover the additional resources and efforts required to prioritize and complete projects within a shortened timeframe. Rush fees typically apply in the following scenarios:

• Extremely Tight Deadlines: When a project needs to be completed in a timeframe significantly shorter than the standard turnaround.
• Large Projects on Short Notice: If a large-volume project requires urgent attention, necessitating the mobilization of additional translators and resources.
• Standard Rush Fee: We typically charge a 20% extra fee for rush services. This fee compensates for the additional efforts and resource allocation needed to prioritize and expedite the project.
• Increased Fees for Exceptional Urgency: For extremely tight deadlines, especially those requiring work during evenings, weekends, or holidays, the rush fee may increase beyond the standard 20%. The exact rate is determined based on the severity of the deadline and the additional resource demands it entails.

In all cases, we maintain transparency with our clients, clearly communicating any additional costs before proceeding with the project. This approach ensures our clients are fully informed and can make decisions that best suit their needs.

2. Bulk Discounts

Stepes values long-term partnerships and large-volume projects. To acknowledge this, we offer bulk discounts for clients who entrust us with extensive or ongoing translation work. These discounts are designed to provide cost-effective solutions for:

• Large-Volume Projects: Significant reductions in per-word or project rates for projects with a high word count or substantial scope.
• Long-Term Contracts: Special rates for clients who commit to long-term contracts or recurring assignments, recognizing the value of a sustained partnership.

Our bulk discount structure is tailored to each project’s specific requirements, ensuring the best value for our clients. 

3. Recurring Client Benefits

We highly appreciate our recurring clients and offer exclusive benefits as a token of our gratitude for their continued trust in our services. These benefits are not only a reflection of our commitment to fostering lasting relationships but also our way of saying thank you. Benefits for repeat clients include:

• Discounted Rates: Special pricing options for clients who regularly use our services.
• Priority Service: Preference in service delivery, ensuring faster turnaround times without compromising on quality.
• Customized Service Options: Tailoring our services to match the specific needs and preferences of recurring clients, based on our understanding of their requirements over time.

These benefits are our way of ensuring that our recurring clients receive the best possible service, reflecting our commitment to long-term client satisfaction.

1. Payment Methods

At Stepes, we aim to make the payment process as convenient as possible for our clients. To this end, we accept a variety of payment methods, ensuring flexibility and security in all transactions. Our accepted payment methods include:

• Credit Cards: We accept major credit cards, offering a fast and secure way to make payments. Credit cards offer a fast, secure, and streamlined way to make payments. This method is particularly beneficial as it facilitates a fully automated payment process, significantly simplifying the billing and invoicing experience for our clients.
• Bank Transfers: We accommodate direct bank transfers for clients who prefer traditional payment methods. Particularly for our US clients, we recommend ACH payments due to their ability to automate payment tracking, making the process more efficient. You can easily locate Stepes' ACH account number within the Finance section of your Stepes account. This ensures a straightforward and secure transaction process.
• Online Payment Platforms: Understanding the need for digital convenience, we also accept payments through popular online payment platforms like PayPal. This option is ideal for clients who seek quick and easy transaction processes.

Our diverse payment options are designed to meet the varying needs and preferences of our global client base.

2. Payment Terms

Stepes adheres to standardized payment terms to ensure clarity and consistency in our financial transactions. Our standard payment terms are as follows:

• Net 30 Days: For most of our clients, we offer a net 30 days payment term. This means that the payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date, providing ample time for clients to process the transaction.
• Extended Terms for Enterprise Clients: Recognizing the complexities of larger organizations, we offer customized payment terms for enterprise clients with significant volume. These terms can be extended up to 45 days, accommodating the specific accounting processes of these clients.

Our payment terms are structured to balance the needs of our clients with efficient financial operations.

3. Deposits for Large Projects

For large-scale translation or localization projects, Stepes implements a policy of requiring an upfront deposit. This approach is essential for managing the resources and planning required for substantial assignments. Here’s how it works:

• 50% Upfront Deposit: We require a 50% deposit before commencing work on large projects. This deposit is a part of our risk management strategy and helps in allocating the necessary resources effectively.
• Assurance for Both Parties: The deposit serves as a commitment from the client and provides financial security for both parties involved. It ensures that Stepes can dedicate the appropriate resources and attention to the project from the outset.
• Clear Communication and Agreement: Prior to the start of the project, clear communication regarding the deposit requirement, total project cost, and payment schedule is provided to the client. This transparency helps in building trust and understanding between Stepes and our clients.

This deposit policy is in line with industry standards for handling large projects, ensuring a smooth workflow and mutual commitment.

1. Getting a Quote

At Stepes, we understand that every translation project is unique. To ensure that our pricing and services meet your specific needs, we offer personalized quotes. Here’s how you can request a quote:

• Online Quote Request: Visit our website and fill out the quote request form. Provide details about your project, such as the type of content, language pair, and any specific requirements.
• Direct Contact: You can also reach out to us directly via email () or phone (+1 800 611 5698). Our team is available to discuss your project and understand your specific needs.
• Response Time: Once we receive your request, our team will evaluate your project details and respond promptly with a customized quote that reflects the complexity, urgency, and specific requirements of your project.

Our aim is to provide a transparent and fair quote that ensures the best value for your translation needs.

2. Consultation Services

For complex projects or special requirements, Stepes offers specialized consultation services. These services are designed to address specific challenges and tailor our translation and localization solutions to your exact requirements. Our consultation services include:

• Project Assessment: Our experts assess your project to understand the scope, challenges, and specific needs, ensuring the most effective translation strategy is employed.
• Specialized Expertise: We provide access to consultants with expertise in various fields, such as legal, medical, technical, and more, to ensure that your project benefits from specialized knowledge.
• Customized Solutions: Based on the consultation, we develop customized solutions that address your project’s unique aspects, from language nuances to industry-specific terminologies.

Our consultation services are an integral part of our commitment to delivering high-quality, bespoke translation solutions that meet your specific project needs.

For further inquiries regarding pricing and payment options, please contact our team here. Alternatively, you can reach us by phone at +1 800 611 5698.