The first fully online interpreting agency
Customers often ask us "How do I avoid surprises when booking an interpreter?", "How quickly does an interpreter respond?" and “Why do the hourly rates differ?”. We are happy to answer those and more questions.
How quickly do the interpreters respond to an availability request?
The interpreters always reply within a few hours. Usually even within 20 minutes!
Why do the hourly rates of the interpreters differ?
The interpreters are freelancers and determine their hourly rates themselves. Some interpreters ask more than others.
Why do the hourly rates differ per situation?
The situations differ in intensity. For example, simultaneous interpreting at a conference is much more difficult than interpreting at an excursion. The heavier the work, the higher the hourly rate.
What are the travel costs?
The travel costs consist of the transport costs and the costs for travel time. The transport costs are, for example, the car costs or the public transport costs. Traveling also costs the interpreter time. This time must be paid. Both costs are included in the interpreter's kilometer rate. This rate is also determined by the interpreters themselves.
How is the all-in rate calculated?
The all-in rate includes interpreters, travel and service costs. It is exclusive of VAT and exclusive of any additional work. The interpreting costs are at least 50 euros. Above that, the costs are per minute. Travel time and travel costs are per kilometer as the crow flies. The service costs of Tolk2Go are on top of all other costs.
How is the additional work calculated?
Most assignments are executed and settled exactly according to the all-in rate. (Please note that the rate on the interpreter overview page is exclusive of VAT. We do this because mainly companies use our services.) For some assignments, Tolk2Go has to invoice additional work afterwards. We know different types of additional work:
See "How is preparation time calculated?".
Various other things. See "What other costs are still being charged?".
End of service. See "What if the interpretation service takes longer than booked?".
Service costs are charged for the additional work.
How is preparation time calculated?
Sometimes an interpreter has to prepare for an assignment. Sometimes the interpreter will receive a briefing in advance. Sometimes the interpreter has to go through documents. Sometimes the interpreter needs to read up on a specific topic. Tolk2Go invoices such work as preparation time. Please agree in advance with the interpreter how much time this will and may take. N.B. At the notary (passing a deed), the preparation time is included in the hourly rate of the interpreter.
What various other things are still calculated?
Various other matters is a broad concept. Often it involves the use of a whisper set. It can also be a parking fee, when it is very high. It could also be something else. Please discuss in advance with the interpreter how much it will and may cost.
What if the interpretation service takes longer than booked?
If the service takes LONGER than booked, Tolk2Go will charge you for the extra time. Note that some interpreters have also booked other appointments on the same day.
What if the interpretation service is shorter than booked?
If the service lasts SHORTER than booked, Tolk2Go will charge you the full quoted amount. This is because an interpreter has reserved that time for you and has not taken on any other assignments.
Go to www.Tolk2Go.com enter your details to find an interpreter and see how the costs are accrued. To see the total cost, you can go to the profile page of an interpreter and find it under the heading “Book me”.
