How to Translate PDF Documents

translate pdf

To translate PDF documents can sometimes lead to panic due to their unique challenges.

At our professional translation agency, we’ve honed our expertise over the years, enabling us to handle various document types, from classic Word files to those demanding specialized tools.

However, it’s essential to note that PDF (Portable Document Format) files can be particularly tricky.

We frequently encounter this format at BeTranslated and have developed effective strategies to address them.

Discover how we upload, download, and support PDF files online instantly to deliver top-quality service to our clients.

The Importance of Client-Provider Communication

The PDF format excels in seamlessly integrating text and images within a single document.

When faced with the task of translating PDF documents, be it from French to English or any other language, we don’t start from square one.

Instead, we choose to work with the source text that the PDF was generated from. This approach allows us to maintain the integrity of the original document.

That’s why our first query will be whether you possess the original files, such as PPTX, DOCX, or any other source format.

A reputable professional translation agency, like ours, is well-versed in handling various PDF file types.

We keep an open dialogue with our clients, ensuring a smooth translation process while avoiding potential issues associated with this file format, whether you need to select Japanese or any other language.

Translate PDF Exported From MS Office

When it comes to PDFs created from Microsoft Office applications like PowerPoint, Excel, and Word, they can be conveniently reverted to their original formats, if required.

Nevertheless, at our agency, we have a preference for working with the source files directly.

Whether it’s Adobe or AutoCAD, as soon as a client shares a PDF file with us, we consistently request the original document.

This approach allows us to maintain the document’s initial layout and deliver high-quality translations.

Translate PDF Exported From InDesign

Translating documents such as marketing brochures, promotional leaflets or tourist brochures from English to Spanish or German is a straightforward process when you know what you’re doing.

Instead of working from the lighter PDF file, which can be difficult to convert without losing the original formatting, we will ask the client to provide us with the original InDesign package.

Note that the .indd file itself cannot be translated, however InDesign provides a file type called .idml, which is an export of the textual content of the document.

The .idml file is easily translated in our CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tool.

Once the .idml is translated, we can insert it back into the original InDesign package and recreate your PDF in the target language(s).

We also provide you with a proofreading service (a “print-ready” check) to guarantee the quality and accuracy of the final document.

Translate PDF of a Scanned Document

At BeTranslated, we translate PDF scanned files (mainly legal or financial in nature) provided by companies and professionals from different sectors. These could include sales contracts, merger and acquisition, etc.

If the scan quality is more or less acceptable (legibility is key and must be assured before the project is accepted), our experienced translators will use their OCR software such as ABBYY Finereader or Adobe Acrobat Pro to create a Word version of the file, which can then be translated.

BeTranslated – Your Language Service Provider for Translating PDF

BeTranslated is a reliable translation agency that proves the skill of its language professionals with every finished translation. Versatility and flexibility are the key to providing our clients with punctual, cost-effective language solutions.

Our team of seasoned linguists have years of experience, specializing in a wide variety of areas, always working with your final reader or client in mind to provide a fluent, accurate translation.

Not afraid of a challenge, our native translators are happy to cater for all kinds of linguistic needs, whether you represent a company, local organization or small business.

Need to Translate PDF Files? There Are Several Options Available to You

Do you have access to the original source file? If so, send us that file and we’ll send back the translation in the same file format, with a perfect layout and ready for print.

This can be any electronic format including InDesign and all MS Office formats.

No access to the source file? No problem! If it is editable (try selecting text in the PDF – if you can, then it’s editable), then we can export it to Word, translate, and recreate the original format, ready to print.

If it is not editable then we have the tools to convert it to Word, where we can translate and reformat for printing.

Depending on the quality of the scan, this can involve more or less manual intervention, such as typing the content into Word where it hasn’t converted properly.

No matter the file type, we’ve got you covered.

So, what are you waiting for? Request a free quote today and find out just how BeTranslated can help you with your translation and localization needs!