Recently, I wrote about using CreateSpace to print Advance Reader Copy (ARC) books to share with potential reviewers before publication date. But as popular as CreateSpace is for printing and distributing POD books on Amazon, it is not the best choice for printing ARCs—unless you can live with their limitations. The better solution is IngramSpark.
IngramSpark addresses the two key weaknesses of CreateSpace:
- Printing limits: none. Print as many copies as you need*.
- ISBN: not required. You can use an IngramSpark ID number for your ARCs.
NOTE: This article addresses the unique differences between CreateSpace and IngramSpark. For more background on the role and need for ARCs, and why they should be part of your marketing plan, please read this post. There is also helpful information there about timing and timelines.
1. No printing limits
The point of ARCs is to get a copy of the book into the hands of media, influencers, and potential reviewers. The CreateSpace limit of 5 copies per order makes any meaningful effort of this sort cumbersome and time consuming, not to mention more expensive due to the additional shipping costs. While the number needed is a function of the size of your database, I would think a more realistic goal is at least 20 copies.
Clearly, a noteworthy book from a distinguished author will generate more interest. Just keep in mind that not everyone on your list is going to respond, or respond in a timely manner. Take comfort in the fact that this is some of the most cost effective marketing you can do.
2. No ISBN required
Of course you will need an ISBN to sell your book in a store. But you do not need an ISBN to print a book if you plan to giveaway copies (or for that matter sell outside of a store). This is precisely why this is such a significant point of differentiation between IngramSpark and CreateSpace when it comes to ARCs.
(Printing a book without an ISBN will not prevent its resale, but it does make it more difficult. Add to this the intentional labeling of the book as a draft and only the thriftiest consumer will be willing to buy it, assuming it is even offered for sale.)
The first time you set up your book on IngramSpark you have the choice to enter an ISBN or use a free Ingram-provided ID number.
Preparing your cover and interior files before submitting to IngramSpark
Your book does not have to be perfect—which reduces the burden of lengthy reviews—and you need to communicate it is not final. Make sure the cover has wording such as:
- Advance Reading Copy, or
- Uncorrected Proof, or
- Not For Sale
Inside the book you can add the same language, or take it a step further like I do. I add this phrase to the header of every page of the book before uploading the PDF:
ADVANCE READING COPY – NOT FINAL – NOT FOR SALE
The top two images in the photo collage shown here are from book covers and the lower one is the header of an interior page of an ARC.
Unlike the CreateSpace policy of printing the word Proof on the last page of the book, IngramSpark ARCs are indistinguishable from the final, approved book. (Personally, I prefer this approach because any extra copies are saleable, assuming there are no errors. Few people are willing to pay retail for a book stamped PROOF.)
IngramSpark ARC timing and timelines
Like CreateSpace—or any printer for that matter—you need to account for proofing and shipping times. Here’s a brief summary of the key steps unique to IngramSpark. (See my CreateSpace article for more details about approximate time requirements).
- Add the book to your IngramSpark account. In the final step—number 5—you will have the option of using an ISBN or assigning a “non-distributable SKU” to the book. Assign the free SKU.
- Complete the process as you would for any book. When you receive your book, the barcode on the back looks like this:
- When you are done ordering ARCs, call IngramSpark and ask them to change the SKU to the correct ISBN. Yes, you need to call.
What is your experience printing ARCs? Add your thoughts to the comments below.
Pre-order and ARCs go hand-in-hand
We work with self-publishers to help them set up and coordinate book distribution, pre-order and ARC production, as well as manage development and distribution of book metadata. It’s takes a lot of coordination. Contact us to learn more.
*CreateSpace vs. IngramSpark printing limits: The most ARCs you can order from CreateSpace in a single order is 5. To get more, you need to re-order. Each time you do this you pay shipping and wait several days.
After you’re done ordering ARCS through IngramSpark, do they let you upload new interior & new cover files? Do you think it’s worth having 2 different cover files made and do you think it’s neccesary to have all the book metadata on the back cover as I’ve seen suggested or is it OK to attach a separate sheet inside the book as I’ve also read?
Good questions Sara. Yes, you can re-upload files to overwrite the ARCs. Don’t create a new record. I usually have my designer create the official cover, then add the ARC wording. So 2 covers. Whether you put the metadata on the back, or include it in an insert, is a matter of personal choice or preference. It depends on your marketing plan, timing, type of book, who you are sending it to…lots of factors. Good luck.
If you can get your hands on some ARCs, from a helpful friend at a bookstore who can give you copies, or maybe a library giveaway, you can get a good idea of the sort of information publishers provide on ARCs. Such as detailed information about the publication, when it will be out, how much it will cost, marketing plans, etc.
Really helpful! Between this and the KDP/create space article, I got the ARC comparision I needed. I’m glad authors have options!
As an aside, some of my already self-published friends recommend Ingram Spark for distributing physical salable books (even if they use Amazon for ebooks). One said Ingram Spark shippers treated her cases of copies more gently.
Which is best/fastest service to order (1) personal copy (344 pg paperback), for my own use (no ISBN), that keeps alive option for a deal with a traditional agent/publisher?
IngramSpark is an option and use their SKU, not an ISBN. There are many printers that would be happy to do this as well. IBPA probably has a list in their resources.
I’m confused about why you’d use a SKU ratter than an ISBN on an ARC, if you want the option to sell it. Can you clarify? Thanks!
Never use a SKU if you want the option to sell it via a bookstore or online retailer. They require an ISBN.