FAQ

How quickly will I receive my transcripts?

We provide high quality, affordable transcription services to you with your deadline in mind. We offer standard (3-5 business days), rush (2 business days), next day, and same day service, all of which are priced very reasonably. With our large team of expert transcriptionists, we can typically meet almost any deadline without any problems at all. Completed transcripts are emailed to you as Microsoft Word documents.

What types of audio recordings can you transcribe?

Verbal Ink can transcribe almost any audio format! While most transcription services only handle digital files, we can transcribe video tapes, microcassettes, cassette tapes, DVDs, or nearly anything else. In some cases, we may have to convert your audio into a digital format before we transcribe it. For this reason, we highly recommend digital files - they'll save you time, save you money, and result in quicker turnaround.

Why are digital recordings so great?

Digital recordings are crisper and cleaner than tapes and microcassettes. They also save you both time and money by essentially eliminating the need for physical tapes, storage space, and shipping. All of your files can be stored and catalogued electronically and uploaded to Verbal Ink for transcription almost instantaneously.

How can I get the best recording possible?

You can help us provide you with affordable, accurate transcripts by sending us clear audio recordings. Here are some helpful hints:

1. Record your audio in a quiet place. Background music, silverware, street noise, air conditioners, and ice makers can make transcription more challenging.

2. Use an external microphone to capture voices more clearly.

3. If possible, if you have several people speaking in your audio, have them introduce themselves by name.

What makes Verbal Ink different from other transcription services?

1. We’re honest. 2. We’re quick. 3. We’re accurate. 4. We publish our transcription rates on our site. 5. All of our friendly employees, staff, and transcriptionists are U.S. citizens.

What are time stamps and time code?

Time stamps and time code are both used to easily link the content of your written transcript to the particular moments of your audio or video file. Time stamps are used for audio files; as each minute of the recording passes, the transcriptionist types that minute as its own line within the written transcript. The frequency of the time stamps is up to you - most of our clients have them added either at every minute or at every five minutes. 

Time code is used for video files; a sequence of numbers representing the hour, minute, second, and video frame (00:00:00:00) is superimposed on top of the original video. The transcriptionist then types this number sequence into your transcript at every minute, every thirty seconds, or in some cases, even every line. Generally speaking, if you don't work with video files, you'll never need to use time code - but don't hesitate to contact our friendly Account Executives if you have any questions!

How do your prices compare to other transcription services?

Verbal Ink sets the standards for reliable - and accurate - transcription. We bill by audio minute, so you'll never be surprised when you get your final bill.  We believe in maintaining consistent quality and not gouging our clients.  As a result, we keep our rates low and attract thousands of amazing clients like yourself. 

Why charge per audio minute?

Charging our clients a flat transcription rate for each recorded minute of audio keeps them from getting ripped off by page counts, work hours, etc. We publish our transcription rates so there aren't any surprises when you get your bill. We want to save you time not just by using our services, but also in finding the transcription provider that is best for you. 

How accurate are you?

We guarantee a 98% or higher rate of accuracy with good audio; typically our accuracy is closer to 99+%. We only hire the best transcriptionists in the industry and because we do not outsource any of our work overseas, your recordings are always transcribed by native English speakers.

How do I get my material to you?

From London to New York, LA to Paris, our clients span the globe. You are welcome to either upload your digital files or mail in your audio material - simply open a new account with us (there is no charge to do this) and you'll be up and running.

Why are your prices so much lower than other transcription services?

We believe that a good business is more than just about making money. By passing savings onto our clients, we allow them the opportunity to give back to their community with the money they save. 

How do I know you’ll keep my sources confidential?

We take great measures to ensure the highest degree of client confidentiality. Many transcription services claim that they will keep your material confidential by simply signing off on a standard non-disclosure agreement. This is the minimum requirement and only the first step to ensure your privacy. Verbal Ink has put strict confidentiality procedures into place to guarantee that your information will remain private. If your information is private, it’s important for you to ask any transcription service company you’ll be using what procedures they have in place to guard that valuable information. 

Where do I mail physical audio recordings?

Please send all physical audio recordings directly to us at:

Verbal Ink
2901 Ocean Park Boulevard
Suite 215
Santa Monica, CA 90405

 

Is there any sort of form or paperwork I need to submit with my electronic or physical audio sources?

If your files are digital, simply log into your account and upload everything directly to us. If you are submitting physical audio, you can print a submission form from within your account.

How often will I be billed?

We can bill you for our transcription services after the completion of each project or keep a running invoice for you and bill at the end of each month. You may pay either by credit card or check, but we do require a valid credit card on file for all clients.

Can you handle a large project? Like, really large?

Verbal Ink has been in business for many years and we only hire the best transcriptionists. We are confident that we can accurately transcribe virtually any size project for you. If you have a high volume project or specific needs, just give us a call or send us an email!

Should I send you my original recordings?

We immediately make digital copies of the physical audio recordings that we receive. It is advisable to make a copy of your master tapes just to protect yourself from the slim chance that tapes may be damaged in shipping, etc. If you are not able to make copies or do not want to, rest assured that we treat your masters with the greatest of care.

Do real people transcribe my audio?

They sure do! Believe it or not, the robots haven't taken over yet - voice recognition technology is still a long ways away from being as accurate as our team of transcriptionists. All of our transcriptionists are 100% human, and they love it when they receive well-recorded audio files.

How do you determine the cost of a translation project?

We charge on a per-word basis rather than by the duration and complexity of your project to give you the most accurate price possible.

Can you provide an estimated cost for my translation project?

Yes! We can provide the exact cost for document translation if you contact us with the document’s word count. For audio and video translation, we can provide a range based on findings that an average person speaks at 120-150 words per minute.

What is the difference between audio transcription and audio translation?

When we transcribe a file, we type what is being spoken in the same words and same language as the audio file. When we translate a file, we convert the words being spoken in your files into text in another language.

What languages can you translate?

We currently offer translation to and from Spanish, French, German, Italian, Polish, and Russian, with several additional languages planned for the future.

Do you have a minimum size for translation projects?

No - we will accept on projects of any size. Call us at (877) 267-0990 with the details of your project and one of our team members will give you an estimated price and turnaround time.