Self-publishing is becoming increasingly popular as more and more authors take control of their publishing process. In 2021, nearly 2.3 million new books were self-published in the US. As a self-publisher, it’s important to know the best book distributors to ensure your work reaches its fullest potential. In this article, we will be discussing the top book distributors for self-publishers and what sets them apart from the rest. But before that, let’s learn more about self-published books.
What Are Self-Published Books?
Self-published books are those that have been written, edited, and designed entirely by an author, and then published without the assistance of a traditional publishing house. A self-publisher is usually responsible for the entire process from start to finish, including printing and marketing the book.
Self-publishing is often seen as a more cost-effective option than traditional publishing. It also allows authors to retain complete control over their work. This gives them the freedom to create and release content in less time, with fewer restrictions. Additionally, self-publishing eliminates many of the financial risks associated with traditional publishing.
Now, let’s look at some of the top book distributors for self-publishers.
10 Top Book Distributors for Self-Publishers
Self-publishers have a number of book distributors available to choose from, each offering different services and advantages. Here are 10 of the top book distributors for self-publishers:
Print Bind Ship
Although not technically a book distributor for self-publishers, Print Bind Ship (PBS) does offer critical resources for authors. PBS is a one-stop shop for self-publishers offering printing, binding, and shipping services. We offer a comprehensive solution for not only turning your work into a physical hardcopy, but also getting it into the hands of customers. With book fulfillment services at your side, you can take the hassle out of managing orders and shipping them. Learn more about Print Bind Ship’s customized printing, binding, and shipping services for authors here.
Amazon
Amazon is one of the most popular book distributors for self-publishers and has a wide range of services available, including Kindle Direct Publishing, CreateSpace, and Audible. By using Amazon’s services, authors can easily reach a global audience and take advantage of Amazon’s vast range of promotional tools.
IngramSpark
IngramSpark is another popular book distribution service that allows authors to reach a global audience and take advantage of their extensive print-on-demand capabilities. It also offers various marketing options, including the ability to create custom digital catalogs and promotional emails.
BookBaby
BookBaby is an industry-leading book distribution service that provides self-publishers with access to over 40,000 retailers and libraries. It also offers marketing and promotional services as well as printing options for both digital and print books.
Dreame
Dreame is an online book distribution platform specifically designed for self-publishers. It allows authors to quickly and easily distribute their books to a wide range of retailers, including Amazon, Apple Books, Kobo, and Google Play. Additionally, Dreame provides useful tools such as automated sales reports and royalty payments, making it easy to stay on top of your book’s performance.
Baker & Taylor
Baker & Taylor is a book distributor that provides access to over 25,000 retailers, libraries, and schools. It specializes in providing distribution services for print books as well as eBooks. It also offers marketing tools such as custom displays and promotional materials.
Hoopla
Hoopla is an innovative book distribution service that offers authors the ability to reach a wider audience and increase their sales. It allows self-publishers to make their books available on streaming platforms as well as through its digital platform. Additionally, Hoopla offers promotional tools such as social media integration and analytics.
Storytel
Storytel is a digital book distribution service that specializes in audiobooks. It provides access to a wide range of streaming platforms and allows authors to set their own prices for their audiobooks. Storytel also offers marketing tools such as promotional campaigns and analytics.
Kobo
Kobo is a book distribution service that provides self-publishers with access to over 8 million readers across 190 countries. It also offers promotional tools such as discounts, email campaigns, and featured placements. Additionally, Kobo allows authors to create physical copies of their books as well as audiobooks.
Scribd
Scribd is a digital book distributor that provides authors with access to over 100 million readers worldwide. It offers promotional tools such as discounts and featured placements as well as the ability to create physical copies of their books. Additionally, Scribd allows authors to make their books available in more than 20 languages.
Factors Self-Publishers Should Consider When Selecting a Book Distributor
Self-publishing can be a great way to get your work out into the world without the restrictions of traditional publishing. However, it’s important to choose a book distribution service that fits your needs and budget. Listed below are some factors that you should take into account when choosing a distributor for your self-published book:
• Reach: Does the distributor offer access to a large audience?
• Services: What services does the distributor offer? For example, can it print physical copies of your book or create audiobooks?
• Pricing: Is the cost reasonable compared to other distributors?
• Marketing Tools: Does the distributor offer promotional tools such as discounts and featured placements?
• Customer Service: Does the distributor have solid customer service?
• Payment Process: Is the payment process easy to use and does it have multiple payment options available?
• Others: Is there a minimum number of books that must be printed?
Choosing the Right Book Distributor for Self-Publishers
Self-publishing can be a great way for authors to get their work out into the world without relying on traditional publishing houses. However, it is important to choose the right book distributor to ensure that you are getting the most out of your self-publishing experience.
In this article, we discussed some of the top book distributors for self-publishers and what sets them apart from the rest. With these services, self-publishers can easily reach a global audience and take advantage of their extensive range of marketing and promotional tools.
FAQ
Book distributors act as a middleman between authors and bookstores, providing books to retailers at wholesale prices. On the other hand, book wholesalers are companies that purchase large amounts of books from publishers and then resell them to retailers at discounted prices.
Print book distribution works by connecting authors with retailers, libraries, and other booksellers. Distributors typically acquire the books from the publisher and then market them to bookstores. They are also responsible for setting prices and providing promotional tools such as discounts, featured placements, and creating physical copies of the book.
There are several ways that you can distribute your self-published book. You can distribute it yourself by setting up a website to sell it, selling it on Amazon or other online retailers, using a print-on-demand service, or partnering with a book distributor.