Timetable for Standard Distribution vs. Expanded Distribution
The chart below gives a rough estimate of how long some of the main elements of your book’s production may take. All are covered in more detail in the publishing contract, which we suggest you thoroughly read before choosing a package. Make sure you plan accordingly for the time each step will take as it relates to your book.
Please note that this chart does not account for how long it takes authors to review and resubmit material for revisions. It only shows our timeline once the material is received.
For a more in depth discussion of the differences between POD and Expanded Distribution, visit our Traditional vs. POD Distribution page.
| Service |
Standard Distribution |
Expanded Distribution |
Timeline # of Business Days |
| Assessment* |
Not included |
Yes |
10-15 |
| Editing |
Not included |
Yes |
10-20 per round |
| Cover design |
Yes |
Yes |
7-10 for initial concepts, 5-7 per round of tweaking chosen cover |
| Interior formatting |
Yes |
Yes |
5-7 for sample chapter, 15-20 for entire manuscript |
| Back Cover formatting |
Yes |
Yes |
5-7 for first round, then 5-7 days per revision |
| eProof |
Yes |
Yes |
10-15 days |
| Physical proof |
Yes |
Yes |
5-7 days for POD
7-10 days for Short Run
7-10 days for Offset** |
| First Print Run |
Not required |
At least 75 books |
7-10 days for POD/Short Run
21 days for Offset** |
| Registration with Distributor, Retailers, Wholesalers |
Yes |
Yes |
Books typically appear in systems 2-4 weeks after data upload which is done when book goes to print. |
*Manuscript is read and assessed by one of our in-house editorial staff members. This allows us, and our distributors, to determine which of our imprints (for which we offer expanded distribution) is most suitable for your title. It also allows us to offer suggestions pertaining to the contents of your manuscript. Once you review the assessment with our staff, you will be placed into one of our imprints. In some cases, your book may be recommended for an imprint that has marketing requirements that are not within your budget. If that is the case, you will be able to choose another imprint. The assessment stage takes between 10 and 15 business days.
** These times are only estimates and can vary based on existing jobs at the printer at time the print job comes in.
