Your first major consideration in selecting a translator is to decide which of the three types of translators to select.
Independent Translators
I am an independent translator.
Independent or freelance translators hire themselves out as sub-contractors to translation service consumers. You call the independent translator directly and negotiate cost and delivery schedule and method. In most cases the translator's office location is unimportant since you can send the source language documents to the translator by overnight mail, fax or e-mail and the translator can return the translations in the same manner.
Agency Translators
Translation users don't actually hire translation agency or bureau translators; rather they contract with an agency that provides translators. You call the agency and describe the document(s) to be translated. The agency then determines if it can find a translator qualified and available to translate, and if so, will quote you a fee schedule and timetable. Some agencies have some in-house (employee) translators, but most agencies sub-contract most of their work to independent translators.
In-House Translators
Some translation users generate enough translation work to justify hiring in-house translators. These translators are actually employees of the translation user entitled to benefits and employer contributions to Social Security and Medicare and subject to all pertinent client (employer) regulations and codes.
Read on to learn some considerations that may help you determine what type of translator is best for you.