As an APS member, you can obtain translations of philatelically-related material through the APS Translation Service. Almost anything philatelic can be translated: letters, cancellations, inscriptions on stamps, FDC cachets, etc. Translations of practically all major languages can be accomplished by the more than 100 members of the Translation Committee.

Nominal Fees: Short translations generally are provided at no charge; in some cases a small fee is assessed. For difficult or complex translations, higher charges are assessed. For example, because each Japanese character represents a word or even an entire idea, charges on all translations from Japanese will be based on the premise that one page of Japanese equals five pages of English.

Requests for translation of longer items will be negotiated with the committee members; the requesting member will be advised of the price before the translation is begun. To expedite translation, members requesting translations should agree to pay all charges up to a limit that they set in advance. Translation will not proceed if the charges will exceed the member's stated limit. Members using checks to pay for services MUST make the checks payable to an individual. Banks will not cash checks made out to the service.

Do not send original material unless it is impossible to make clear photocopies. If it is necessary to send an original document, send it either by registered or insured mail.

Postage Charges: All postage charges on translations must be paid by the member requesting the translation. As a general rule, three times the postage necessary to send the translation should be enclosed to cover all forwarding and return postage requirements. Requests will not be processed until such postage is provided.

You Can Help: If you are able to translate from or to another language and are willing to serve as a member of the Translation Committee, please offer your services directly to Chairman Dmytro Bykovetz Jr.

The Translation Service has established and cemented friendships among APS members and citizens of countries throughout the world.

In addition to the APS Translation Service, here's another source you may find useful for translations - http://babelfish.altavista.digital.com/