Is Ingram Book Publishing Right for You Pros Cons and Real Author Experiences

In the ever-evolving world of book publishing, independent authors now have more choices than ever before. Among the many options, Ingram Book Publishing stands out as a major player, trusted by professional book publishers, indie authors, and small presses alike.

But is it the right choice for you?

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore what Ingram Book Publishing actually is, the key pros and cons, and what real authors are saying about their experiences. By the end, you’ll be able to decide if Ingram fits your publishing goals.

What is Ingram Book Publishing?

Before we dive into the good and bad, let’s clarify what Ingram Book Publishing means. Ingram is not a traditional publisher — it’s one of the world’s largest book distributors.

Ingram works through its self-publishing arm, IngramSpark, which allows authors and small publishers to print, distribute, and sell their books worldwide through Ingram’s vast network. This includes major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, indie bookstores, libraries, and even some big-box stores.

In short: with Ingram, you handle the book publishing yourself — writing, editing, designing — then use IngramSpark to print and distribute. For many indie authors who want professional book publishers’ reach without a traditional publishing contract, Ingram can be a powerful tool.

Pros of Using Ingram Book Publishing

Let’s start with the positives. Here are the biggest advantages of publishing through IngramSpark.

1. Massive Distribution Network

One of Ingram’s strongest selling points is its unbeatable distribution reach. Ingram’s catalog feeds into over 40,000 retailers, libraries, and online sellers globally. This means your book has a chance to appear anywhere readers buy books — both online and in physical stores.

Compared to going Amazon-only, Ingram opens more doors for indie authors. Many bookstores prefer ordering through Ingram because they already work with them for big traditional publishers.

2. Professional Printing Options

Quality matters in book publishing, and Ingram delivers. Authors can choose hardcover, paperback, or even color printing. The print quality is comparable to what professional book publishers offer their authors.

Plus, Ingram uses print-on-demand (POD). This means books are printed as orders come in, so you don’t have to buy boxes of inventory upfront or worry about unsold stock.

3. Control Over Pricing and Discounts

With IngramSpark, you can set your own retail price and choose your wholesale discount. This gives you flexibility to price competitively or to maximize royalties.

You can also decide whether to allow returns — a big deal for physical bookstores. Many stores won’t stock a book unless it’s returnable, which Ingram enables.

4. Better Access to Libraries and Bookstores

Many brick-and-mortar stores and libraries won’t order from Amazon’s print services (KDP Print) because they prefer to work with Ingram’s catalog. If you dream of seeing your book on shelves, Ingram may be your best shot.

5. Global Reach

Your book won’t be limited to your home country. Ingram has print facilities worldwide, which helps keep shipping costs reasonable for international orders.

Cons of Using Ingram Book Publishing

Now, let’s look at the other side of the coin. While Ingram Book Publishing has major benefits, it’s not perfect.

1. Learning Curve and Setup Costs

Unlike working with a full-service publisher, you handle the publishing process yourself. You’ll need to format your manuscript, design a cover, and upload files that meet Ingram’s specifications.

If you don’t have experience with book publishing, this can feel overwhelming. Many authors hire freelancers to help — which adds cost.

IngramSpark also charges setup fees (around $49 per book) and fees for file revisions. While they sometimes offer free setup codes, it’s an expense to keep in mind.

2. Customer Support Complaints

Some authors report mixed experiences with Ingram’s customer support. Response times can be slow, and getting help with file errors or distribution hiccups sometimes requires persistence.

3. Distribution Delays

Because Ingram feeds book data to multiple retailers, it can take time for changes (like new cover files or price updates) to appear everywhere. This is less instant than Amazon KDP.

4. Returns Risk

Making your book returnable helps stores feel safe stocking it — but if the book doesn’t sell, you may have to pay for returned copies. This is the same risk traditional publishers take, but as an indie author, it’s on your shoulders.

Real Author Experiences: What Do Writers Say?

Hearing from real authors can help you decide if Ingram is worth it for you. Here’s what some self-published writers have shared about using Ingram Book Publishing:

✔️ The Hybrid Author

“I use both Amazon KDP and IngramSpark. KDP is great for quick sales online, but Ingram gets me into local bookstores and libraries. I like having both.”

✔️ The Indie Bookstore Fan

“My dream was to see my book in indie bookstores. I wouldn’t have achieved that with Amazon alone — stores order through Ingram. It took work to pitch my book, but it was worth it.”

✔️ The Frustrated Beginner

“I didn’t expect how picky Ingram is about file setup. My files kept getting rejected for tiny issues. I had to pay someone to fix my PDF and cover files. It was stressful, but the end result looked great.”

✔️ The International Author

“I’m based in the UK but have readers in the US and Australia. With Ingram’s global print network, they can order locally without crazy shipping fees. That’s a big win for me.”

Should You Choose Ingram Book Publishing?

So — is Ingram Book Publishing right for you?

✅ Choose Ingram if…

• You want your book in bookstores and libraries.

• You want professional-quality printing options.

• You’re ready to handle the learning curve or hire help.

• You’re comfortable managing the business side — pricing, discounts, and returns.

❌ Maybe skip Ingram if…

• You only care about selling on Amazon (then KDP alone may be easier).

• You’re not comfortable handling file prep and distribution details.

• You want a full-service publisher to handle editing, design, and marketing for you (Ingram does not provide these).

Tips for Success with Ingram Book Publishing

If you decide to publish with IngramSpark, here are a few pro tips:

• Hire professionals for editing and cover design. A polished book sells better.

• Understand print specs. Follow Ingram’s file guidelines carefully to avoid upload rejections.

• Set a realistic budget. Factor in setup fees, potential returns, and design costs.

• Promote your book actively. Distribution alone doesn’t guarantee sales — marketing is key.

• Consider using both Ingram and Amazon KDP. Many authors do this to get the best of both worlds — Amazon’s ease plus Ingram’s bookstore reach.

Final Thoughts

Ingram Book Publishing, through IngramSpark, gives indie authors the tools to compete with professional book publishers — but success depends on how well you handle the process. For many writers, the chance to reach bookstores and libraries makes the extra effort worth it.