Your Ultimate Guide to Global Distribution with Ingram Book Publishing
If you’re an aspiring author or a self-publisher dreaming of seeing your book on shelves worldwide, Ingram Book Publishing could be the game-changer you need. For decades, Ingram has been a giant in the book publishing industry, offering independent authors and professional book publishers a reliable way to reach readers around the globe. But how exactly does Ingram Book Publishing work, and what makes it such a powerful distribution partner?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through what Ingram Book Publishing is, how it works, what global distribution really means for your book, and how you can leverage its vast network to maximize your book sales.
What is Ingram Book Publishing?
Ingram Book Publishing is part of Ingram Content Group, one of the world’s largest and most trusted book distributors. With a history spanning more than 50 years, Ingram has become a backbone of the publishing industry, connecting books to thousands of retailers, libraries, and schools worldwide.
Ingram is not a traditional book publisher itself — instead, it works with professional book publishers, self-publishing authors, and indie presses to handle the critical job of distribution. Through IngramSpark, its self-publishing platform, even first-time authors can access the same global reach as big publishing houses.
Why Global Distribution Matters
Before we dig deeper, let’s break down what global distribution really means for your book publishing journey.
When you publish a book, getting it printed is just the first step. The real challenge is getting that book into readers’ hands — and that’s where global distribution comes in.
Here’s why global reach is essential:
Wider Audience: Your book becomes available not just locally but in international markets like the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and beyond.
Increased Sales: More availability means more chances for bookstores, libraries, and online retailers to stock and sell your book.
Professional Credibility: Working with reputable distributors like Ingram gives your book a stamp of legitimacy that readers and bookstores trust.
Print-on-Demand: Ingram’s print-on-demand services mean your book can be printed locally near the buyer, saving shipping costs and reducing waste.
How Does Ingram Book Publishing Work?
Ingram Book Publishing works as a behind-the-scenes powerhouse for professional book publishers and self-published authors alike. Here’s how the process typically works:
Create and Upload Your Book
Authors or publishers create their book files (interior and cover) according to Ingram’s specifications. These files are uploaded through IngramSpark, Ingram’s easy-to-use self-publishing portal.Set Up Distribution Channels
When setting up your book, you choose where you want it distributed. With Ingram, your book automatically becomes available to over 40,000 retailers, libraries, and schools worldwide — including major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores.Print-on-Demand Fulfillment
Instead of printing thousands of copies upfront, Ingram uses print-on-demand technology. This means when a retailer or reader orders your book, a copy is printed and shipped to them. This reduces upfront costs and storage headaches.Order Management and Royalties
Retailers order your book through Ingram’s massive catalog. Ingram handles the printing, shipping, and billing, and you receive royalties for every sale.Marketing Support
While Ingram doesn’t market your book for you, they do provide tools to help. You can list your book in key catalogs, set discounts and return options to attract bookstores, and even opt into global marketing programs.
Benefits of Using Ingram Book Publishing
Working with Ingram Book Publishing offers several advantages that can make or break your publishing journey:
1️⃣ Unmatched Global Reach
Ingram’s distribution network is one of the largest in the world. Your book can reach retailers and libraries on nearly every continent — far beyond what most indie authors could achieve on their own.
2️⃣ Professional Print Quality
Ingram is trusted by professional book publishers because they maintain high standards for print quality. Your book will meet the same professional standards as any traditionally published title.
3️⃣ Print-on-Demand Savings
Print-on-demand minimizes upfront costs and inventory risk. You don’t need to pay for large print runs or worry about storing unsold copies.
4️⃣ Flexible Formats
Whether you’re publishing a paperback, hardcover, or ebook, Ingram provides the tools you need to manage multiple formats under one account.
5️⃣ Access to Bookstores and Libraries
Many bookstores prefer ordering through Ingram’s catalog. Listing your book there means your title is where book buyers are looking.
How to Succeed with Ingram Book Publishing
Publishing through Ingram alone doesn’t guarantee sales. To succeed, you’ll need to pair Ingram’s powerful distribution with a clear marketing plan. Here are some tips:
✅ Invest in Professional Editing and Design
First impressions matter. Even though Ingram offers top-notch printing, readers won’t forgive poor editing or an amateur cover design. Hire professional editors and designers to ensure your book meets the standards of professional book publishers.
✅ Set the Right Pricing and Discounts
Research your genre and price competitively. Also, offer a standard wholesale discount (typically 55%) and enable returns to make your book attractive to bookstores.
✅ Promote Your Book Aggressively
Use social media, author websites, email lists, and book signings to create buzz. The more people know about your book, the more likely they are to request it from retailers.
✅ Leverage Reviews and Endorsements
Positive reviews build trust. Send out advance copies to reviewers, bloggers, and influencers. A few good endorsements can open doors to wider distribution opportunities.
IngramSpark vs. Amazon KDP: Should You Use Both?
Many new authors wonder whether they should choose between Ingram Book Publishing (via IngramSpark) or Amazon KDP. The best strategy is often to use both.
Amazon KDP is great for direct sales on Amazon, the world’s largest online retailer.
IngramSpark gives you broader access to bookstores, libraries, and international markets where Amazon’s reach is limited.
Many professional book publishers recommend using KDP for Amazon and IngramSpark for all other channels — just be careful not to enable expanded distribution on KDP if you’re using Ingram too, to avoid conflicts.
How to Get Started with Ingram Book Publishing
Ready to get started? Here’s a simple action plan:
1️⃣ Write and Polish Your Manuscript
Complete your book and invest in professional editing.
2️⃣ Hire a Designer
Create a compelling, professional cover and format your book interior according to Ingram’s specs.
3️⃣ Set Up an IngramSpark Account
Register on IngramSpark’s website, choose your book’s format, and upload your files.
4️⃣ Select Global Distribution
Opt for worldwide distribution and set your pricing and discount rates.
5️⃣ Order Proof Copies
Always order a proof copy to check for errors before approving for sale.
6️⃣ Launch and Promote
Plan your book launch, gather reviews, and promote your book widely.
Final Thoughts
Ingram Book Publishing is a trusted ally for authors and professional book publishers who want to make their books available worldwide. With its global reach, reliable print-on-demand services, and connections to tens of thousands of retailers and libraries, it can open doors that self-publishing alone often cannot.
Remember: publishing a book is just the start — distribution and marketing are what get your words into the hands of readers everywhere. With the right strategy and Ingram’s powerful network, your publishing dreams can go global.
