ISBNs

What’s It Cost To Get An ISBN For A Self-Published Book? (UK)

If you’re self-publishing in the UK, one of the practical questions you’ll quickly face is: how much does an ISBN cost, and do I actually need one? The answer depends on your publishing route, whether you’re going for maximum control and whether you want your book available beyond Amazon.

As a company that’s helped countless authors bring their ideas to life, we thought we’d put together this guide to help you understand the exact costs of ISBNs, so you know exactly what to expect.


Start your ISBN registration with Spiffing today – the only self-publishing company recommended by Nielsen.
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How Much Does An ISBN Cost?

In the UK, ISBNs are issued by Nielsen ISBN Agency, and they aren’t free. The pricing structure (as of 2025) is:

  • Single ISBN – £93 (inc. VAT)
  • Block of 10 ISBNs – £174 (inc. VAT)

You’ll also need a publishing imprint (essentially your publisher name), which Nielsen registers for free when you first apply. If you plan to release multiple formats, paperback, hardback, and eBook – you’ll need a separate ISBN for each. That’s why most self-publishers choose the block of 10.

It’s worth noting that ISBNs bought in the UK are a one-off cost. They don’t expire, and you can use them whenever you’re ready to publish.

Can You Get A Free ISBN?

Yes, if you publish through platforms like Amazon KDP, or Draft2Digital, you can accept a free ISBN. These are convenient, but they come with compromises:

  • The publisher name listed will be Amazon or Draft2Digital, not you.
  • You can’t take that ISBN to another platform.
  • It looks less professional to retailers and libraries.

Some DIY authors may consider buying ISBNs second-hand or from resellers. In short: don’t. ISBNs are non-transferable, so if you don’t buy directly from Nielsen (or receive one legitimately from a platform), it isn’t valid, and you will not be officially recognised as the publisher of your own work.

Downsides Of Free Or Ultra-Cheap ISBN Options:

  • Locks you to one platform (Amazon or Ingram only).
  • Doesn’t give you your own publishing imprint.
  • Harder to get into bookshops or libraries.
  • Less professional on bibliographic records.

So, while free ISBNs might work out fine for hobbyists or writers testing the waters, we do not recommend them for most authors.

ISBN Number For A Self-Published Book

What Does A Professional ISBN Setup Include?

For serious self-publishers, buying ISBNs directly from Nielsen is the gold standard. Not only do you keep control of your imprint, but you also gain flexibility to distribute through:

  • Amazon KDP
  • IngramSpark
  • Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble
  • Wholesalers like Gardners (used by UK bookshops)

The professional route does cost more upfront, but it’s a small investment compared to the overall publishing process. Most UK authors would buy 10 ISBNs for £174 direct from Nielsen.
It’s also worth remembering: your ISBN record is what libraries, shops, and wholesalers see. Having your own publisher name rather than “Amazon” can make all the difference to credibility.

ISBNs With Spiffing Publishing (our collaborative approach)

At Spiffing Publishing, we treat ISBNs as part of the bigger publishing picture. Some of our authors want complete independence, so we help them set up their own Nielsen account and guide them through the process. We also have experience buying ISBNs for non UK residents via International suppliers like Bowker.

Because we’ve worked with hundreds of authors across genres, we’re able to advise not just on ISBNs, but on how they connect to distribution, metadata and discoverability. For example, making sure your ISBN is correctly tied to your eBook and print versions, and that retailers pull accurate information into their catalogues. In the UK this is most simply done via Nielsen’s Title Editor service – something else Spiffing can assist and advise on.

Benefits Of Working With Spiffing:

  • Clear guidance on buying ISBNs
  • Help registering your publishing imprint with Nielsen.
  • Ensuring each book format is assigned correctly via Nielsen’s Title Editor service
  • Seamless integration with Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Draft2Digital and wholesalers.
  • Metadata and category advice to maximise discoverability.

The goal is always the same: you stay in control, but with expert support to avoid the pitfalls.

self published books

What’s The Best ISBN Route For UK Self-Publishers?

So, how much does it cost to get an ISBN in the UK? The short answer is: between free and £93 for one ISBN or £174 for ten, which is the best value for most authors. Free ISBNs are fine for hobby projects or perhaps Amazon only publishing, but if you want your book in shops, libraries or across multiple platforms – owning your own ISBNs is the necessary and professional route.

At Spiffing Publishing, we help authors navigate the options, balancing cost with flexibility. The ISBN itself is a small piece of the puzzle, but it makes a big difference in how your book is perceived.
If you’re planning your self-publishing journey and aren’t sure which path to take, we’d be delighted to chat and help you decide the best approach for your book.

If you’d like to explore your publishing options and get your ISBNs set up properly, feel free to get in touch with us today on 01206 585200

SEE ALSO: How To Get An ISBN Number For A Self-Published Book

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