How can I find an Interpreting Agency with very competitive pricing?
The single most important factor in obtaining competitive pricing is the MINIMUM SESSION. Most interpreting agencies charge a 2-hour ‘minimum session’. That means you will be charged 2 hours even if the interpreting session only lasts 15 minutes. (American Sign Language or ASL always has a 2-hour minimum. This is a national requirement). A company that only requires a 1-1/2 hour minimum, for example, will cost approximately 25% less.* A 1-hour minimum will cost approximately 50% less.*
*This calculation assumes both companies charge the same amount per hour. If the interpreting agency that requires the 2-hour minimum also charges more per hour, then the difference could be much higher.
A second factor in choosing an interpreting agency with very competitive pricing, is to review their list of languages offered. Do they offer the language needed? If the answer is affirmative, inquire about the price.**
**Most interpreting agencies have at least a 2-tier pricing schedule. Certain languages cost less than others. Each interpreting agency determines for itself which languages are in each of the categories. If the needed language is in the Tier 2 pricing in one interpreting agency, you may be able to reduce your cost if the needed language is in the 1st-Tier category with another company.
