For interpreting services, one of clients’ top concerns is the interpreting cost. Generally speaking, the daily cost for consecutive interpreting is approximately half of that of simultaneous interpreting. However, if you need to cover the same amount of content, the number of days would double for consecutive interpreting.
Below is a detailed comparison of the consecutive and simultaneous interpreting cost.
Interpreting cost: Consecutive and simultaneous
| Comparison Items | Consecutive Interpretation Cost | Simultaneous Interpretation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Interpreters* | $1600-2200/day | $2000-2400/day |
| Cost of Equipment | Small (or none if provides in house) | $1500 - 2000/day |
| Daily Fees | $1600-2200/day | $3500-4400/day |
| Number of Days** | 2n | n |
| Total*** | ($3200-$4400)*n | ($3500-$4400)*n |
Notes:
* For simultaneous interpreting, always use team interpreters unless the event is 30 minutes or less. For consecutive interpreting, we strive to use two interpreters. For late scheduling, it is possible that only one interpreter is available. The client and the interpreter will then collectively determine whether it is feasible to use just one interpreter.
When only one interpreter is hired, a 10-minute break every 45-50 minute session is mandatory to relieve interpreter fatigue. The interpreting fee remains the same as that for two interpreters, but the client may cut some costs on travel (mileage, travel time, air tickets, and hotel, etc.).
** The number of days doubles for consecutive interpreting if the same amount of content needs to be covered.
*** Travel costs are determined case by case and are not included here.
Other factors to keep in mind
Is the schedule set?
If attendees have made their travel arrangements, or if speakers’ time slots have been finalized, you may have to stick with the agenda and determine the interpreting mode based on the daily workload. If more than four hours of speeches is to be covered each day, simultaneous interpreting would be the choice.
Are there concurrent sessions?
What is listed in the table above is the interpreting cost for one meeting room. If there are breakout meetings, there will be duplicate costs for each additional concurrent session. In other words, each concurrent session needs a team of (two or more) interpreters.
Costs for speakers/attendees
As a meeting planner, you need to factor in the costs for speakers and/or attendees when selecting the interpreting mode. If you decide to choose consecutive interpreting and double the meeting time, the logistic costs for speakers and attendees may double.
If you have any questions related to a specific project, please contact us for a free quote. We encourage you to contact interpreting service providers early to facilitate your planning.
