Preserve the file structure
Main documents, attachments, drawings and linked files may refer to one another. Retain file names and folder structure and provide a translation list. For partial work, specify pages, sections or cell ranges.
Make scans complete and legible
Include edges, reverse sides, stamps, signatures and attachments. Avoid glare, blur and obstructions. Illegible material needs a query or an explicit note, not a guess; information absent from the source should not be invented.
Separate references and privacy instructions
Mark whether previous translations, glossaries and brand guidance are approved. Personal information unnecessary for quoting can be redacted, with complete files later transferred through the agreed channel. Provide separate instructions for password-protected files.
A checklist for your brief
- A list of files to translate
- Complete sources and attachments
- Approved reference material
A common question
Can a PDF be translated?
Usually, after inspection. Text-based PDFs and image scans need different handling. For close layout matching, provide editable source files if available.
This guide supports project preparation and communication; it does not replace legal, financial or specialist technical advice. Service scope, recipient requirements and delivery arrangements must be agreed for the specific project.
