A Beginner’s Guide to Self-Publishing Book Distribution

For authors new to self-publishing, book distribution can be an intimidating task. At Rowanvale, we understand the complexities of the process, which is why we’ve created A Beginner’s Guide to Self-Publishing Book Distribution to guide you through.  

What is Book Distribution?  

Put simply, book distribution is the process in which books are delivered to wholesalers, retailers and bookstores, ready to be sold directly to the consumer. For beginners to self-publishing, book distribution can seem like an impossible hurdle. After spending tireless months writing, editing and redrafting your novel, worrying about how your book will be distributed is an added stress that many self-published authors fall victim to. Book distributors specialise in this operation, meaning much of the strain on self-published authors can be alleviated by the distributor’s expertise and know-how. 

Distributors, Wholesalers and Aggregators: Self-Publishing Lingo for Beginners 

1. Distributor  

A distributor, more often than not the key figure in book distribution, will manage the logistics of distributing your book to all the key areas, making your book readily available to consumers. Distribution can be wide-ranging or purposefully targeted, with bookstores, libraries and online retailers acting as the target market. While there are some companies that specialise in book distribution alone, with our self-publishing services at Rowanvale, we can ensure global distribution as simply a part of the package.  

2. Wholesaler  

Not to be confused with a distributor, a wholesaler’s role is to purchase books on behalf of relevant bookstores, businesses and libraries.  

3. Aggregator 

A term most often used in eBook distribution, an aggregator’s role is to provide and sell books to multiple distributors simultaneously, giving self-published authors scope for accessing online retailers. Having chosen an aggregator, authors can upload their electronic manuscript or eBook file and choose which networks they wish to distribute to. Typically, aggregators take a percentage of your royalties for the use of their service, which is generally estimated at 10-15%.  

The Importance of Book Distribution  

Book distribution is a key element in the market success of most books. Without a thoughtful distribution strategy, some books are at risk of falling flat. For most authors, this can be a devastating blow. Knowing the amount of hard work and dedication that goes into writing and publishing a book, at Rowanvale we want to ensure that book distribution is a seamless process that allows our authors’ books to become accessible to readers across the globe.  


With our expert team and services, we aim to make this possible for all new authors. For self-published indie authors, eBooks are a fantastic starting point for getting your book out there. Distributing an eBook can be significantly less complicated than print, and with our eBook Publishing Package, authors can focus their sales on Amazon specifically or distribute to other major retailers like Apple and Kobo. For authors who wish to take a more traditional approach, or those who wish to combine both, some of our recommended packages are our eBook & Paperback/Hardback Publishing Package, as well as our KDP Publishing Package, which has been specifically designed to help your book stand out among millions on Amazon.  

As professionals in the self-publishing industry, our expert team are on hand to ensure successful global eBook, paperback and hardback distribution. With connections to over 39,000 retailers worldwide and links to some of the biggest names in the industry, our unlimited book printing and distribution services can ensure successful book distribution for all of our self-published authors.  

While you’re here, why not check out a few more of our blog posts here. Alternatively, if you’re interested in the services we offer, our plethora of packages can be found here.

Can’t find an answer? Not to worry! Feel free to contact us at info@rowanvalebooks.com or call us on 029 2128 0200 where we are more than happy to answer any other questions.