IngramSpark publishing that puts your book where bookstores order
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What we handle
- IngramSpark account set up in your name, with your imprint as publisher
- Print-ready interior and cover files built to IngramSpark's template for your exact trim and page count
- Metadata: title, subtitle, description, BISAC categories, keywords and author bio
- List price, wholesale discount and returns modeled so every channel stays profitable
- Paperback, hardcover and ebook editions, each on its own ISBN
- Coordination with your Amazon KDP listing so both platforms work together
- Printed proof review before your book goes live
IngramSpark or Amazon KDP?
They do different jobs. KDP is the simplest route to Amazon. IngramSpark reaches the rest of the book trade: independent and chain bookstores, libraries, and international retailers that order through Ingram.
| Detail | Amazon KDP | IngramSpark |
|---|---|---|
| Main reach | Amazon storefronts | Bookstores, libraries and online retailers through Ingram |
| Returnable to bookstores | No | Yes, if you enable it |
| Wholesale discount | Set by Amazon | You choose |
| Hardcover options | Case laminate | Case laminate and dust jacket |
| ISBN | Free KDP ISBN or your own | Your own, for bookstore credibility |
Most authors use both
Publish on IngramSpark first with an ISBN you own.
Publish the same edition on KDP with the same ISBN, so Amazon sells it directly at KDP royalty rates.
Turn off KDP Expanded Distribution for that edition, so it doesn't compete with your IngramSpark listing.
The settings bookstores look at
55% wholesale discount
Most bookstores expect the standard trade discount. Lower discounts raise your margin but most shops won't order.
Returns enabled
Stores rarely order books they can't send back. If you enable returns, you pay the wholesale cost of returned copies.
An ISBN you own
Your imprint shows as publisher. A platform's free ISBN signals self-published to buyers.
A trade-ready cover
Correct spine width, barcode and bleed for IngramSpark's printer, plus a cover that holds up face-out on a shelf.
How it works
Consultation
We confirm your formats, markets, and whether you're also publishing on KDP.
Account and ISBNs
We set up your IngramSpark account and assign an ISBN you own to each format.
File preparation
Interior and cover files built to IngramSpark's specifications.
Pricing model
We run the compensation math per channel before you pick a list price.
Metadata
Descriptions, categories and keywords written for retailer and library search.
Proof copy
You approve a printed proof before distribution is switched on.
Go live
Distribution enabled and listings checked across major retailers.
Costs
IngramSpark's own fees plus our service fee. You pay IngramSpark directly from your own account.
| IngramSpark fee | What it covers | Current rate |
|---|---|---|
| Title upload | Print or ebook | Free |
| Revisions | Updated interior or cover files | Free |
| Market access fee | Per print copy sold through distribution | 1.875% of list price |
| Printing | Each copy, sold or ordered | Depends on specs |
From IngramSpark's price sheet effective February 1, 2026. Last verified September 2026.
| Our package | Includes | Service fee |
|---|---|---|
| Setup only | Account, metadata, pricing, distribution settings | Custom quote |
| Setup and files | Setup plus IngramSpark-ready interior and cover | Custom quote |
| IngramSpark and KDP | Both platforms, one ISBN strategy, coordinated launch | Custom quote |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it cost anything to upload a book to IngramSpark?
Not currently. IngramSpark's February 2026 price sheet lists title uploads and revisions as free. You pay printing on copies you order, and a market access fee is deducted from distribution sales.
Can I use the same ISBN on IngramSpark and Amazon KDP?
Yes, if you own the ISBN. A free ISBN from KDP or IngramSpark only works on that platform and lists them as publisher.
Will bookstores stock my book?
IngramSpark makes your book available to order. Stocking is each store's decision. The right discount and returns settings make it possible; local outreach and marketing make it likely.
Do I have to accept returns?
No, but most bookstores won't order non-returnable titles. If you enable returns, you pay the wholesale cost of any copies sent back.
Whose IngramSpark account is it?
Yours. The account, the titles and the compensation stay with you, and you can remove our access whenever you want.
Does IngramSpark distribute ebooks too?
Yes. It distributes ebooks to major retailers. Many authors publish the Kindle edition directly on KDP and use IngramSpark for other ebook stores.
Get In Touch With Us
Have a story to tell? We're here to help bring it to life.
We create books that connect with audiences. From the initial outline to publication and marketing, we support our clients throughout the entire process.
SERVICES
- Fiction Ghostwriting
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- Book Editing
- Book Printing
- Book Marketing
- Audiobook Publishing
- Hybrid Publishing
- IngramSpark Publishing
- ISBN and Copyright Registration
- Book Cover Design
- eBook Writing
- Self-Publishing for Tech Founders
- Amazon Publishing
- Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing
- Book Publishing Timeline & Process
- Book Publishing Cost USA
- Author Success Stories & Case Studies
- Biography Writing
- Novel Writing