Hi readers! Since last week’s blog post provided 5 Reasons to Self-Publish with IngramSpark, I thought it would be helpful to provide a similar blog post about Amazon KDP. Amazon KDP is another option for self-publishing authors who are searching for a POD company. According to the Self-Publishing School, “Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is Amazon’s book publishing platform that can be used to self-publish a book online, which readers can purchase as an eBook or print-on-demand book.”
1. ISBNs are provided for free.
There are other POD companies like IngramSpark that require the author to purchase an ISBN to use their services and distribute their book. On Amazon KDP, purchasing ISBNs is not necessary so you can publish your novel without spending any money. (Although this is not recommended, especially if you intend on making a living from your books).
2. There aren’t any uploading or revision fees.
On IngramSpark, the cost of uploading an eBook is $25, a print book is $49, or a combination to upload both print and eBook formats is $49. This cost doesn’t sound like much at first. However, self-publishing authors should keep in mind that IngramSpark also charges $25 for any revisions needed after uploading. Amazon KDP allows self-publishing authors to revise their book files, cover, and all metadata at any time for free.
3. Many indie authors receive most of their book sales from Amazon.
In fact, as specified on the Self-Publishing School’s website, “Amazon KDP is a major player in the publishing industry, currently holding at least 80% of the eBook market.” If you don’t plan on publishing wide (on multiple platforms), then Amazon is a good option.
4. You can earn up to 70% in royalties.
Your eBook royalties can be as high as 70%, while paperback royalties can be up to 60%. Royalty rates partially depend on how you price your books, but also, for paperbacks, how expensive it is to print them. The Self-Publishing Mastery website explains, “eBooks…priced between $2.99 and $9.99 earn 70% royalties for their authors.” If you don’t want your royalty rate to drop to 35%, then I suggest pricing according to Amazon’s recommendations.
5. The self-publishing process is quick with KDP.
As stated on Amazon KDP's website, after you create your account, upload the files, the files are approved, and you click “Publish,” it only takes between 24-48 hours for your book to be available for purchase. IngramSpark’s website says it can take 3-5 days for them to process and approve your files. Afterwards, it can take weeks for your book’s metadata to be sent to online retailers and available for purchase online.
If you’re a self-publishing author, then deciding which POD company to use is one of the most important decisions you will make. However, don’t let the process stress you out! There is lots of helpful information available online to help you choose the right POD company.
If you have already published, which POD company did you choose? Or if you’re an aspiring author, which POD company are you considering?