by Christine Bode
Publishing your book is a magical milestone, and choosing the right platforms can make all the difference. As a literary alchemist and author ally, I’ve helped many writers navigate the self-publishing labyrinth. In fact, one of my clients recently said, “Thank you for helping me solve this word puzzle!” Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and IngramSpark are two self-publishing platforms for indie authors. However, when it comes to KDP vs. IngramSpark, what should you choose? Whether you’re launching your debut novel or expanding your indie empire, this guide will teach you how to publish on KDP and IngramSpark with confidence and clarity.
Why Use Both KDP and IngramSpark?
KDP and IngramSpark serve different purposes, and together, they create a powerhouse distribution strategy:
- KDP (Amazon): Best for e-books and paperback sales on Amazon. KDP is fast, free, and author-friendly.
- IngramSpark: Ideal for wide distribution to bookstores, libraries, and online retailers beyond Amazon. IngramSpark offers hardcover options and professional-grade print quality.
Using both ensures your book is available everywhere your readers shop.
Step-by-Step Publishing on KDP
1. Prepare Your Manuscript
- Format your manuscript for Kindle (ePub or Word—ePub recommended: Best for reflowable text, clean formatting, and compatibility across Kindle devices and apps.) and paperback (PDF).
- Ensure clean layout, consistent styles, and embedded fonts.
2. Create a KDP Account
- Sign in at kdp.amazon.com with your Amazon credentials.
3. Set Up Your Title
- Enter book details: title, subtitle, author name, description, keywords, and categories.
- Choose whether to enroll in KDP Select (exclusive to Amazon for 90 days).
4. Upload Your Files
- Upload your manuscript and cover (JPEG or TIFF).
- Use KDP’s previewer to check formatting.
5. Set Pricing and Royalties
- Choose territories, pricing, and royalty rate (35% or 70%).
6. Publish and Promote
- Hit “Publish” and your book will be live within 72 hours.
- Promote using Amazon Author Central, ads, and social media.
What is a BISAC Category?
BISAC stands for Book Industry Standards and Communications. A BISAC category is a standardized label used to classify books by subject, helping retailers, libraries, and distributors know precisely where your book belongs.
Think of it as your book’s genre tag—but with industry-wide recognition.
Why BISAC Matters
- Helps readers find your book in the right section (e.g., “FICTION / Historical / Medieval”).
- Determines shelving and searchability in online stores and physical bookstores.
- Required by platforms like IngramSpark and used by Amazon to match your book with relevant categories.
Pro Tips for Choosing BISAC Categories
- Be specific: “FICTION / Romance / Historical / Regency” is better than just “FICTION / Romance.”
- Use up to three categories: IngramSpark allows multiple BISAC codes to refine your book’s placement.
- Match your keywords: Align your BISAC choices with your book’s metadata and marketing language.
You can browse the complete list of BISAC categories at bisg.org to find the perfect fit.
Step-by-Step Publishing on IngramSpark
1. Create an IngramSpark Account
- Register at ingramspark.com and verify your publisher status.
2. Purchase ISBNs
- IngramSpark requires you to supply your own ISBNs (available via Bowker in the U.S. or ISBN Canada).
3. Prepare Your Files
- Upload a print-ready PDF for interior and cover.
- Follow IngramSpark’s file specifications closely.
4. Enter Metadata
- Add your book’s title, author, description, BISAC categories, keywords, and pricing.
5. Set Distribution and Pricing
- Choose global distribution options.
- Set wholesale discount (typically 55%) and returnability.
6. Pay the Upload Fee
- IngramSpark charges a fee per title (waived during promotions or with a discount code).
7. Approve Proof and Go Live
- Order a proof copy, make final tweaks, and approve for distribution.
Pro Tips for Dual Publishing
- Avoid duplicate ISBNs: Use separate ISBNs for each format and platform.
- Disable Expanded Distribution on KDP if using IngramSpark for wide distribution.
- Sync metadata across platforms for consistency.
- Use your own imprint name to appear more professional.
Pros and Cons of Amazon KDP vs. IngramSpark
Choosing between KDP and IngramSpark—or using both—depends on your publishing goals, budget, and distribution strategy. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide:
Amazon KDP: Pros
- Free to use: No upfront fees for publishing.
- Fast turnaround: Books go live within 72 hours.
- Global reach on Amazon: Instant access to millions of readers.
- KDP Select perks: Exclusive promotions like Kindle Unlimited and Countdown Deals.
- User-friendly interface: Ideal for first-time indie authors.
Amazon KDP: Cons
- Limited bookstore distribution: Most brick-and-mortar stores won’t stock KDP titles.
- No hardcover option (unless using KDP Beta Hardcover, which has limitations).
- Expanded Distribution overlaps with IngramSpark, causing potential conflicts.
- Amazon-centric metadata: Less flexibility in pricing and categorization.
IngramSpark: Pros
- Wide distribution: Access to bookstores, libraries, and academic retailers.
- Hardcover availability: Professional-grade print options.
- Customizable metadata: More control over pricing, returns, and discounts.
- Professional publishing appearance: Ideal for serious indie publishers.
IngramSpark: Cons
- Setup fees: Charges for uploading and revising files (though often waived with promo codes).
- Steeper learning curve: More technical requirements for file formatting.
- Longer approval times: Books may take several days to go live.
- Requires your own ISBNs: Adds cost and complexity for new authors.
Christine’s Take
For most indie authors, publishing on both platforms is the golden ticket. Use KDP for Amazon visibility and IngramSpark for bookstore credibility. Together, they give your book the best chance to enchant readers everywhere.
Need help securing your ISBNs before you publish? Check out my guide to obtaining ISBNs in Canada and the U.S. for everything you need to know.
Summary: Ready to Publish Like a Pro?
Learning how to publish on KDP and IngramSpark empowers you to reach readers worldwide—on Amazon, in bookstores, and beyond.
As a thank-you for trusting me on your publishing journey, I’m offering a free 5,000-word edit to authors who publish on KDP or IngramSpark. Just mention this post when you reach out!
Let’s ensure your book launch is flawless!