Book Distribution Costs Explained (UK Guide for Self-Publishing Authors)
How book distribution works for self-published authors
Understanding book distribution costs is key for any self-published author in the UK. Here’s how pricing, wholesale terms, and print-on-demand services work.
Once your book is beautifully edited, typeset, and designed, the next big question is: how do readers actually buy it? That’s where book distribution comes in. For self-published authors in the UK, it’s about getting your title available through the major online retailers — and potentially into bookshops — without the need to hold or ship stock yourself.
There are two main types of distribution available to independent authors: Print on Demand (POD) and Wholesale Distribution. Both come with different cost structures and benefits, depending on your goals.
Print on Demand distribution (Amazon KDP & IngramSpark)
Print on Demand (POD) means your book is printed only when someone orders it. This removes the need for bulk print runs, warehousing, or handling postage yourself — no more boxes of books crammed into your garage.
The two main POD distributors for UK authors are:
- Amazon KDP – free to set up, automatically lists your paperback and eBook on Amazon.
- IngramSpark – charges a small setup fee but offers wider distribution in the UK via the British book wholesaler Gardners, making your book available to retailers like Waterstones, Foyles, and Blackwell’s, as well as the majority of smaller independent bookshops.
Typical costs
| Service | Setup Fee | Distribution Reach | Royalty Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon KDP | Free | Amazon UK, US, EU | Usually ~60% of list price minus print cost |
| IngramSpark | Free, but amendments may be charged | Bookshops, wholesalers, libraries | 45–55% trade discount typical |
You’ll also need to factor in your print cost per copy, which depends on page count, paper type, and trim size — usually between £2.50 and £5.00 per book for a standard paperback.
Wholesale distribution and extended reach
If you choose our Extended Distribution service via IngramSpark, your book enters databases used by UK retailers such as Gardners, Waterstones, and Blackwell’s. This doesn’t guarantee shelf placement, but it means your book can be ordered by any retailer using those systems. Gardners is the wholesaler used by small bookshops across the country, which gives you access to your local stores as a ‘local interest’ item.
Typical wholesale expectations
- Retailers expect a trade discount (usually 40–55%)
- Many also expect sale-or-return terms (they can return unsold copies)
- Remember that Gardners also takes a margin before the retailer’s share
- You’ll receive payment only for net sales
For most authors, IngramSpark’s network is the most practical route into retail channels without managing logistics personally.
Direct sales and private distribution
You can also order author copies from KDP or IngramSpark at print cost and sell them yourself at events, talks, or through your own website.
Some authors also choose to:
- Partner with local bookshops on consignment (they take a small percentage of each sale)
- Distribute directly through their website using Shopify or WooCommerce, with fulfilment by IngramSpark (books printed and shipped directly to the buyer)
- Use IngramSpark’s new UK-based author website eCommerce options (ask us for details!)
While these options involve a little more admin, they can improve your profit margins and create a more personal connection with readers.
Typical costs at a glance
| Distribution Method | Typical Setup | Main Ongoing Costs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Distribution with Amazon KDP | Free | Printing only | Best for Amazon visibility |
| Extended Distribution (via IngramSpark) | Free | 40–55% retailer discount | Access to Gardners, Waterstones, and independent retailers |
| Direct Website Sales | Variable | Hosting, shipping, print cost | Best for higher margins – but you may need to handle returns |
| Bookshop Consignment | None | 20–40% shop commission | Great for local exposure |
Which book distribution option is right for you?
If your primary goal is Amazon visibility and simplicity, KDP alone is sufficient.
If you’d like your book to appear in bookshop catalogues and have the potential for retail orders, adding IngramSpark is essential.
Authors that work with us usually use both — KDP for Amazon and IngramSpark for everywhere else — to maximise coverage and royalties.
Need help setting up your book distribution?
At Spiffing Publishing, we manage all aspects of distribution for our authors — from file setup and ISBN registration through to print-on-demand configuration and retail pricing.
We’ll guide you through choosing the best options for your goals, making sure your book is listed correctly across Amazon, Waterstones, all major UK outlets and beyond.
