The cost of an animated explainer video depends on what needs to be designed, how much happens in each scene and what the finished project needs to include. Two videos of the same length can involve very different amounts of work.

At RPMotion, I quote each project individually. We agree the approach, deliverables and revisions before production starts. Here’s what affects your quote and what to ask when comparing animation services.

What affects the cost of an animated explainer video

For me, the biggest factors are the complexity of the artwork and how much is going on in each scene.

A scene with a few clear graphics and straightforward movement needs a different amount of work from one with detailed characters, several interacting elements and complicated transitions. Each element has to be designed or prepared, animated and checked.

Length matters too, but a 60-second animation isn’t a standard product with a standard price. A shorter, more intricate film can involve more work than a longer animation with simpler scenes.

The quote also depends on what you already have. An approved script and usable artwork provide a different starting point from an idea that needs developing through writing, storyboards and design. A storyboard is a sequence of images showing what will happen in the video.

Simple animation can still look excellent

A simpler style can be a good way to work within a smaller budget. Strong design, clear storytelling and well-timed movement can make a simple animation look polished and feel right for your brand.

If your budget is limited, we can discuss simplifying the artwork or reducing the activity in each scene while keeping the main message clear.

It helps to share your available budget early, if you know it. I can then suggest an approach that fits, rather than develop something that needs scaling back later.

What is included in an animation quote

I estimate the work needed for the agreed project and provide a project price. The quote should make clear which stages and deliverables it covers.

Depending on what you need, that can include developing the idea and script, storyboards, artwork, animation, voiceover, music and final delivery. If you already have some of these elements, tell me at the start.

You don’t need a finished brief to get in touch. I can help shape an early idea and work out what the video needs to say.

For example, on the Exponential Training explainer, I helped develop the script and worked with a graphic designer on the storyboards before handling the animation. The client said the finished film made conversations with potential customers easier because they had less to explain.

Voiceover and music

Voiceover and music are included in the quote according to the approach we agree. We’ll discuss whether licensed stock music suits the project or whether a bespoke composition would add something valuable.

For a polished soundtrack created specifically for your animation, I recommend Manike Music.

Tell me where you intend to use the film, including any paid advertising, so the audio options and relevant usage can be considered when quoting. Stock music and a bespoke score involve different work, so we agree the choice before production.

Approvals and revisions

I get your approval at each planning and design stage before building the animation. This gives us a chance to settle the message, visual direction and scene content before the more involved animation work begins.

Once the animation is built, I include two rounds of revisions. It helps to gather feedback from everyone involved and send it together for each round.

I try to accommodate small adjustments where they don’t require substantial reworking. Changing an approved script or design after animation has started can mean rebuilding completed scenes. If a change needs extra budget, I’ll discuss it with you before proceeding.

Social versions and shorter edits cost less when planned early

Extra versions are a separate cost. That includes things such as a vertical social video or a shorter edit of the main film.

They usually cost less when we plan them into the original brief than when they are requested after production. Knowing the formats in advance lets me consider layouts, timing and how the animation will work across them.

If you need a website film, a vertical version and a short advert, mention all three at the start. We can then quote for the full set of deliverables.

What to send when asking for an animation quote

Rough answers are fine. These seven things give us a useful starting point:

  • Your goal: What should the video explain, and what should viewers do afterwards?
  • Your audience: Who will watch it, and what do they already know?
  • Where you’ll use it: Your website, social media, presentations, events or paid adverts.
  • The content: What needs covering, any existing script and an approximate length if you have one.
  • Your preferred style: One or two examples, plus any brand guidelines or artwork you already have.
  • Your deadline: When you need the finished film and whether that date is fixed.
  • Your budget: An available range, if known, so we can discuss a suitable approach.

If you’re unsure about the style or length, I can help you decide. Tell me the outcome you need first.

Questions to ask before accepting an animation quote

When comparing quotes, check that they cover the same work. These are useful questions to ask any animator or studio:

  • What production stages are included? Check scripting, storyboards, artwork, animation, voiceover and music.
  • How many revision rounds are included, and at which stages? Ask what you’ll approve before animation begins.
  • What changes would cost extra? Clarify how changes to approved work are handled and how additional costs are agreed.
  • Exactly which versions and files will I receive? Confirm lengths, landscape or vertical formats, captions and any language versions you need.
  • Does the quote cover the intended use of the video and audio? Explain where the film will appear, including paid campaigns.
  • Are editable project files included? Agree this if your team needs to update the work later.
  • What is the delivery schedule, and when do you need my feedback? Make sure the review stages fit your team’s availability.
  • Is VAT included or added, and what are the payment stages? Make sure you understand the total and when payments are due.

A clear quote gives you something useful to compare: the work, the finished deliverables and the process for getting there.

Discuss your explainer video

I’m Richie Phillips, a freelance motion designer and animator based in Leicester, working with businesses and agencies across the UK.

You can explore my animated explainer video work and process, or get in touch about your project. Bring your idea, deadline and any examples you like, and I’ll help you work out the details.