Packaging Translation Services

Packaging translation is becoming increasingly popular as it allows companies to reach new markets. When expanding its market, a manufacturer must successfully localize its products (adapt for the local market) and have the appropriate language translated and displayed to attract as many customers as possible.

The packaging translation process is not always straightforward.  Take, for example, a medical product.  The packages already contain a lot of information....ingredients, descriptions, warnings, directions, side effects, symbols, and even company branding is typically displayed.  Any of these words in English could be 3 or 4 words in another language, making the package's content layout a major consideration.

In addition, catalogs, websites, advertising copy, or any other place where the product name is visible must be translated. Furthermore, the translator must also consider local culture for a successful translation.

Another aspect of packaging translation is dual-language packaging.  Canada, for example, requires that all mandatory information on food labels be shown in both French and English. There are slight exceptions, such as pet food, cosmetics, certain test market products, and pest control products, but for the most part, it is required.  While the United States does not require bilingual packaging, many companies use multi-lingual packaging translation to appeal to multiple language markets.  These companies see revenues increase with new customers.

One issue to consider concerning multi-lingual packaging translation is the size of the product.  For instance, translating and then duplicating all the information for a home blood pressure monitor is less complicated than doing the same for a bottle of aspirin.  The size of the monitor box allows more room for text.  Consider translating and duplicating all the information on a small bottle of aspirin.  Ingredients, warnings, and directions must be translated and clearly displayed on the small package.  When we know space is an issue for a client, we recommend leaving 20% extra space for the translated copy or creating a larger package to accommodate the additional text.

As soon as a company determines that it will offer multilingual packaging, we suggest calling us for recommendations on layout, language preferences, graphics, or pictures. The consultation is free and can make for a smoother development process.