For overseas authors looking to publish globally, picking the right distribution channel is an integral step. It demands striking a balance between the artistic desire to showcase your work and maintaining a reasonable profit margin. However, despite it being a crucial growth-driving factor, choosing between print-on-demand (POD) and bulk printing can be confusing.
This decision is no longer a choice. Modernisation and rise of middle-ground platforms are affecting the print industry all over the globe. According to a study on Spanish University Presses, institutions are leaning towards POD to tackle uncertain academic demands and reduce storage.
But that does not mean that the world is gradually shifting towards the same. Prince Harry’s memoir ‘Spare,’ released in 2023, sold over 6 million copies to become the fastest-selling non-fiction book in history. If not for bulk printing, it would have missed out on the record.
So, whether you are an aspiring writer, self-publishing overseas author or an established name, choosing the right production method demands your active input.
At Maneesh Media, India’s leading diaspora publishing house, we have a distribution network of over 40 countries. It has naturally allowed us to work with writers across continents; and one of the first queries we generally solve is shaping their book’s publishing journey.
Given that, let’s break it down in a practical and experience-driven way.
The Basics of Print-on-Demand and Bulk Printing
Print-on-demand is exactly what it sounds like. Books are printed only when a customer places an order. This removes the need to store or manage inventory. As a result, authors can avoid upfront costs and reduce financial risk.
Bulk printing requires printing a large number of copies upfront. It demands larger monetary investment. Logistics, international shipping and custom fees also impact the overall cost. However, this method keeps the per-unit cost significantly low.
From an aerial view, no method is better than the other. Both serve valid purposes. The correct choice depends on your work, situation and audience.
Should Overseas Authors Opt for Bulk Printing or Print-on-Demand?
For overseas authors, or for local writers aiming to go global, the challenges are the same as a debut writer. International distribution involves inventory management, storage, shipping, duty fees, and proactive coordination.
Before a decision is made, they need to honestly probe their work and answer whether they have a pre-existing audience. From our 26 years of experience, overseas authors typically fall into three categories:
1. First-time writers testing the market
2. Established authors with defined audience
3. Niche publications and academic content
Each group benefits differently from print-on-demand and bulk printing.
Why opt for Print-on-Demand?
- Low Financial Risk
Authors avoid investing heavily into production, logistics, storage and other costs, including the risk of unsold inventory.
- Global Accessibility
Get your work printed closer to the destination. This reduces shipping time and costs while keeping your book accessible to multiple countries at once.
- Option to Update
Remove, add or update content in your book almost immediately even after your book has hit the market. Maximize the potential of POD to print your life story, academic books, corporate stories, genealogy books, legal handbooks, etc.
Benefits of Bulk Printing?
- Lower Cost Per Book
It can significantly raise profit-margins. A reasonable difference can be noticed in the cost of bulk printing vs POD. When you print volume, the cost per book significantly dips.
- Control Over Quality
More control over quality – from paper and color accuracy to binding and finish. Print-on-demand can offer more options, but they usually come at the price of consistency.
- Physical Presence
Bookstores, seminars and academic distribution prefer readily available inventory. Bulk printing ensures you are always stocked up.
Convenience of print-on-demand is immense. But for established publishers, renowned authors and high-demand titles, bulk printing is a powerful option.
A perfect example is the trajectory of The Martian by Andy Weir. It was originally released in 2011 on Weir’s blog and Amazon’s POD service. However, a rise in demand led to a deal with Penguin’s subsidiary and bulk runs. It has sold over 3 million copies till now.
Maneesh Media recommends the Hybrid Approach
It’s rarely a strict choice between print-on-demand and bulk printing. For overseas authors, the most effective strategy is the hybrid method.
Here’s how it works:
- Start with print-on-demand to test different markets and generate initial traction.
- Alter production based on amount of sales and audience response.
- Only shift to bulk printing in the countries where demand becomes predictable.
This method reduces costs and risks while allowing you to put your work out in the global market. Sure, POD raises the average production price, but without large investments and international shipping costs.
At Maneesh Media, we have implemented this method for many international authors.
Publishing as an overseas author is no longer as complicated as it once was. Writers operating across borders have significantly increased in recent years. With print-on-demand and models like Shopify, nearly 30% of them are selling directly to customers.
Nevertheless, POD and bulk printing are both beneficial, only when one sees them as complimentary tools to your publishing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is bulk printing better or print-on-demand services for Indian diaspora authors?
Despite the genre, Print-on-Demand (POD) serves as the best starting point for self-publishing overseas authors. It allows a global reach without inventory, logistical and customs costs. Bulk Printing works best only when you have a guaranteed audience.
What is the cost of bulk printing vs POD?
The cost of bulk printing vs POD varies depending on the country you are based in. However, bulk printing usually comes with MOQ (minimum order quantity), demanding a larger investment than POD, which bills according to the number of books.
Our 27 years of experience has provided us with ample resources to make the most out of your budget.
