How to Publish Your First Ingram Book Publishing: A Step-by-Step Guide
Publishing a book is a dream for many writers, but the process can seem overwhelming if you’ve never done it before. Fortunately, with Ingram book publishing, you can turn your manuscript into a professionally distributed book available worldwide. Whether you’re an author looking to self-publish or you want to understand how professional book publishers do it, this guide will break down every step you need to take.
Below, we’ll cover how book publishing works, why it’s trusted by professional book publishers, and exactly how you can publish your first book through Ingram.
What is Ingram Book Publishing?
Ingram is one of the largest book distributors in the world. Through its platform, IngramSpark, independent authors and small publishers can publish print books and e-books that are distributed to major retailers, bookstores, and libraries globally.
Ingram book publishing stands out because it bridges the gap between self-publishing and traditional publishing. Authors maintain control over their work but gain access to the same professional distribution network used by big publishing houses.
Why Use Ingram for Book Publishing?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s look at why so many writers choose Ingram:
✅ Wide Distribution — Your book can reach Amazon, Barnes & Noble, independent bookstores, and libraries worldwide.
✅ Print-on-Demand (POD) — No need for large upfront printing costs. Books are printed when ordered, reducing your risk.
✅ Professional Quality — Ingram offers quality print options, including hardcover, paperback, and color books.
✅ Control — Unlike traditional publishers, you keep your rights and have full creative control.
✅ Trusted by Professional Book Publishers — Many small presses and professional book publishers use IngramSpark to manage printing and distribution.
Step-by-Step Guide to Publish with Ingram
Let’s break down the process of publishing your first book with Ingram book publishing. Follow these steps to make your publishing journey smooth and successful.
Step 1: Finish Your Manuscript
It may sound obvious, but your manuscript must be 100% finished before you upload it. Revise your work thoroughly, edit it carefully, and get feedback. Consider hiring a professional editor — even professional book publishers know that good editing is what separates an amateur book from a professional one.
Step 2: Get a Professional Book Cover
First impressions matter. A poorly designed cover will hurt your sales. You can design it yourself if you have the skills, but it’s wise to invest in a professional designer who understands book cover standards.
Make sure your cover meets Ingram’s technical requirements for size, bleed, spine width, and resolution.
Step 3: Format Your Interior
Your manuscript must be properly formatted for print. You can hire a typesetter or use design software like Adobe InDesign. Ingram also provides templates for interior layout.
Keep these tips in mind:
- Use a legible font.
- Include front matter (title page, copyright page) and back matter (about the author, acknowledgments).
- Create a table of contents if needed.
Step 4: Set Up Your IngramSpark Account
Go to IngramSpark.com and create an account. You’ll need to provide your personal or business details, tax information, and banking info for royalties.
Step 5: Buy ISBNs
You’ll need an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for each version of your book — paperback, hardcover, and e-book all require separate ISBNs. Ingram offers ISBNs for purchase, but many professional book publishers prefer to buy directly from Bowker (in the US) to own their ISBNs outright.
Step 6: Upload Your Files
In your IngramSpark dashboard, you’ll upload:
- Your print-ready PDF manuscript
- Your print-ready PDF book cover (including the back cover and spine)
- Metadata: title, author name, description, keywords, BISAC categories, and price
Take your time to write a strong book description and choose relevant keywords — this helps your book appear in searches.
Step 7: Set Your Pricing and Distribution
Pricing is key for successful Ingram book publishing. Set a retail price that makes sense for your genre and audience. Remember that Ingram will take a percentage, and bookstores typically expect a discount (usually 40-55% off the retail price).
You’ll also choose which markets and retailers can order your book. The wider your distribution, the more potential readers you reach.
Step 8: Order a Proof Copy
Before making your book available for sale, always order a proof copy. This lets you check print quality, layout, and colors in real life. Review every page — even professional book publishers catch errors at this stage!
Step 9: Approve and Publish
Once you’re happy with your proof, approve your book for distribution. Congratulations — your book is now live in Ingram’s catalog! Retailers and libraries can order it, and readers can buy it through their favorite bookstores.
Step 10: Market Your Book
Publishing is just the beginning. You’ll need to promote your book if you want it to sell.
Here are a few proven strategies:
- Build an author website and share your journey.
- Use social media to connect with readers.
- Reach out to bloggers and reviewers for book reviews.
- Run promotions and giveaways.
- Consider paid ads on Amazon or Facebook.
Professional book publishers invest heavily in marketing — you don’t need a big budget, but you do need a plan.
Bonus Tips for Ingram Book Publishing Success
✔️ Keep Learning — Ingram offers free resources, webinars, and guides. Take advantage of these to improve your publishing skills.
✔️ Stay Professional — Even if you’re self-publishing, aim for the standards of professional book publishers. Great editing, cover design, and formatting all add up to a book that readers trust.
✔️ Monitor Sales — Use your IngramSpark dashboard to track sales and adjust your marketing strategy as needed.
Final Thoughts
Publishing your first book doesn’t have to be complicated. Ingram book publishing gives you the tools that professional book publishers use — but with the freedom to keep control of your work.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can transform your manuscript into a professional book available worldwide. Remember, the effort you put into editing, design, and marketing will pay off in the quality of your final product and your sales success.
So, if you’ve been wondering how to publish your book, don’t wait. Start today. The world is waiting to read your story.
