File Formats

Formats don’t stop with Word and Excel

Translations are needed for a variety of purposes. Press releases, websites and printed brochures are just a few of them. The source texts are prepared in extremely different file formats, depending on their ultimate use.

We translate smoothly into all standard file formats and can also convert more complex formats to ensure you receive your translations in the precise technical specs and layout you need. File formats can be assigned to two major groups: The content in one group can be edited; the content in the other cannot.

Editable file formats

Files with editable content can be translated directly, without any technical groundwork. Word, Excel, PowerPoint or InDesign documents are standard examples of this group. They can be analysed easily using CAT tools (Computer Aided Translation Tools). There are other benefits, also:

Non-editable file formats

Texts in non-editable formats – for instance PDF files – need to be converted into an editable format before the text can be translated. But the process will frequently remove the specific layouts such as headings, bullet points and links. They need to be restored in a separate process. This costs time and money.

CAT tools are unable to analyse non-editable file formats, or the analyses are unreliable. For example, the price calculation for your translation may be based on an imprecise word count. It may not be possible to use translation memories.

We can create a new file if you do not need your translation to satisfy any layout requirements. In these cases you will receive an unformatted translation, usually a Word file. In contrast, we need to recreate your source file if you require a layout identical to the original. This takes some time and comes with certain costs.

The best solution is if you produce your translation files in a workable format. This way we can start translating immediately, and there is no need for up or downstream stages to preserve the layout.

Website translations

Our technology allows us to import text files kept in a content management system directly and automatically from your specific CMS. The imported files (e.g. XML, YAML, PO, Xliff, CSV) are then easy to manage using CAT tools and can be translated directly in their native format. Then you simply import the translations back into your CMS. No conversion, no loss of data.

We are experienced in handling other formats, besides those mentioned above. We are delighted to convert your files into a translatable format and will happily deliver the finished texts in your preferred layout. Ideally, though, it is best if you provide us with the file in the format in which the text was produced. These formats are editable and can be translated at no extra effort.

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Translation Memories

Save time and money. Increase consistency.

Translation memories speed up the translation process, as entirely identical sections or wordings never have to be translated twice. They also ensure consistency in how your company communicates.

Desktop Publishing

Translation – Layout – Design: Everything from one source

Are you looking to have your company’s brochure translated into several languages and also need graphic artwork for the document? You have come to the right place ! After all, we are all too familiar with challenges these can pose, and know just how to deal with them: The key is the direct cooperation of specialist translators and graphic designers at Toptranslation.

API Interface

Your translation is just one click away

Are you looking to internationalise your company website or to run your e-shop in several countries? Our REST-API (programming interface) lets you simply transfer text directly from your content management system – or any other application – to our system.


Ciara Rodriguez, Team leader Account Management, Toptranslation
Our words open borders

We look forward to your projects!

Request a quote clients@toptranslation.com