Ingram Series: Starting with IngramSpark
If you self-published, researched or asked about self-publishing, then you have heard or read about Ingram. Just like Amazon it is one of the largest book distributors in the world. Self-publishers use LSI (Lightning Source) to print and publish your books. IngramSpark and LSI are the same company, however, LSI caters to companies (publishers) that publish in bigger volumes. IngramSpark, are best suited for independent authors.
Disclaimer:
- This is not paid by Ingram, I will make another post for Createspace, KDP and a comparison. For now... IngramSpark...
- You need a designer, or to at least know Adobe Indesign to properly set your manuscript. You may also use Word.
- IngramSpark is a self-publishing platform. Here you do everything your self.
Why IngramSpark?
- YOU ARE YOUR OWN PUBLISHER!
- No more middle man, no need to call an agent to place an order.
- Most publishers are considered your middle man. Some publishers benefit from your royalties and some don't (100% Royalties?).
- When you take out your middle man you lower the book cost and more royalties for you.
- You get your books directly from Ingram.
- Your Ingram account will show monthly sales and royalty reports and this is also where you can order and publish your books.
- Bookstore Returnability Program - This is a guarantee that any unsold books are returnable. This also means they get their money back for unsold books.
- Better book quality.
- Wider distribution range. They also distribute with Amazon.
- Most bookshops, retailers and resellers prefer books distributed by Ingram because of the Returnability and they get to earn more compared to books from Amazon Createspace/KDP.
How much?
| Paperback + Ebook Set Up Fee | $49 |
| Hardback Set Up Fee | $49 |
| Ebook Only Set Up Fee | $25 |
| Extended Distribution (Recommended) | $12 |
| Bookstore Returnability (Recommended) | FREE |
What do you need to publish with Ingram?
1. Cover Spread (the front cover, spine, and back cover)
- Ingram will send you a guided template where you can place your book cover then send it back to them for upload
2. Your book interior
- Should be print ready pdf and Epub format
Setting Up Your IngramSpark account
Unlike createspace where they show a digital copy of how your book will look like inside and out upon submission, IngramSpark is more on the technical side. Don't worry, you will be notified if there is an error on your upload or your manuscript.
Royalties
Here is a sample computation for a book that costs $14.99
30% Discount
I will update this post for royalty information. For now please click the link below for the royalty calculator ( resellers, bookstores prefer to get 53% discount)
Ingram Book Price Calculator
Ingram Royalty Calculator
Royalties
Here is a sample computation for a book that costs $14.99
Book Price - IngramSpark Discount - Print Cost = Publisher Compensation (Royalties)
$14.99 - $4.50 (30%) - $4.56 = $5.93
53% Discount (recommended, preferred by resellers and bookstore owners)
$14.99 - $7.94 (53%) - $4.56 = $2.48
I will update this post for royalty information. For now please click the link below for the royalty calculator ( resellers, bookstores prefer to get 53% discount)
Ingram Book Price Calculator
Ingram Royalty Calculator
Need a video guide in uploading your book? Email me so I can send you the links.
Too much work but wants to use Ingram? Need help setting up? Email me!
iamauthorhelper@gmail.com
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