Listing a Book as Returnable

What are returns?

Returns are copies of your book that have been sold to, and later returned by, a wholesaler or retailer. Titles are typically returned because the books did not sell at a particular retailer. Returns are only processed if the books are in saleable condition. The inventory that comes back can be resold by an author, used for promotional purposes, added back to fulfillment inventory, or used for whatever purpose you'd like.

Why should I list my book as returnable?

 Many bookstores will not accept titles that do not offer returns, so being able to list your book as returnable makes it more attractive to buyers. If you are participating in our Expanded Distribution Program, you are required to offer returns.

What does the Mill City Press Returns Program offer?

If you purchase our Returns Service, it means that your book will be listed as returnable (in good condition) to wholesalers and retailers. The $199 fee covers listing the book as returnable for two years. Additionally, the fee covers the tracking and documentation of returned books. The returns program operates a bit differently depending on whether you are in distribution. Please see below for details.

For Mill City Press authors (no Expanded Distribution):

Returned books for Mill City authors are sent back to the publisher. If a returned book comes back to Mill City and you are not using our Website Order Fulfillment service (where the book is added back into inventory), you will be offered the option of having the book shipped back to you, or destroyed. You can use any books returned to you for anything that you'd like.

For authors in the Expanded Distribution Program:

The book must be listed as returnable, which means that purchasing the returns service is required to participate in the program. Any books that are returned will simply be added back to the distributor's inventory for resale.