Sell books online, signed by the author

1. 01

   One page per title, formats as options

   List each book once, with paperback, hardcover and signed copy as options, each with its own price and stock. Ebooks can be a separate download product.

2. 02

   Give the details readers check

   Blurb, page count, format, ISBN if it has one, series order, and the age range for children’s and young adult books. Add the first chapter or a few pages as a preview.

3. 03

   Offer what big stores can’t

   Signed copies, dedications on request, bookplates, series bundles and special editions give readers a reason to buy from you rather than a big retailer.

4. 04

   Take preorders for the next book

   Open a preorder with the publication month and a set stock, and ship signed copies on release day. Early orders also tell you how many to print.

5. 05

   Pick a book-friendly shipping rate

   In the US, USPS Media Mail is cheaper for books but slower; in the UK, a single paperback can often go as a large letter. Set fixed rates by format and number of books.

6. 06

   Add events and visits

   School visits, library talks and book club calls can be requests with the price hidden. Ask for the date, the audience and the place in the form.

• ISBNs

  You don’t need an ISBN to sell your own book from your own website, but most bookstores, libraries and distributors expect one, and each format usually needs its own.

• VAT on books

  Printed books and ebooks are zero-rated in the UK, and many EU countries give books a reduced VAT rate. Check the rate where you sell, and set up Stripe Tax before your first order.

• Media Mail rules

  USPS Media Mail is for books and a few other media only, can be opened for inspection and is slower than other services. Don’t add mugs or tote bags to the same parcel.

General information to help you get started, not legal advice. Rules differ by country, state and product, so check the ones that apply to you.