Book Returnablity

books Bookstores will often not order books that are not returnable. If a title does not sell within a period of time, they want to be able to return the unsold copies for full refund. If you intend to sell only through online retailers like Amazon.com, returnability is not an issue. Online retailers do not stock books. They order them when someone buys them. However, if you plan to sell your book through brick and mortar stores, it is important to accept returns. This is a huge market. 80% of books are sold through brick and mortar bookstores. 

Self publishing companies sell you a returnability program. The following is what Xlibris charges

  • 12-month Term - $699
  • 24-month Term - $999
  • 36-month Term - $1299


Felibri also offers returnability policy. However, we offer this service for free.

Print-on-demand books are more expensive than traditionally printed books. When a book is returned, you pay, not only the cost of the book but also all the shipping expenses (from printer to the store, from store to Ingram warehouse and then to you). Unless you can resell the retuned books through other means, they are your losses. One returned book can eat up the profit that you make on, three, four or five book. Should you also absorb more losses any pay so much to your publishing service provider just to have this option? You don't have to if you publish your book with Felibri.

We have a different philosophy. We want our authors to succeed so we can share their success. We think of them as our partners and not as our customers. It is this philosophy that distinguishes Felibri from other self publishing service providers and defines whatever we do.

In order to reduce your risk we suggest you sell only small quantities (two to three copies at a time) to each store. If your book sells well, they will be able to quickly replenish their stock.

Having your book displayed on the shelves of bookstores increases the chance of it getting noticed. However, it is no guarantee that it will sell.  In order to sell your book you have to promote it, get reviews, do book signings, write articles, give speeches and appear on radio talk shows. You must create a buzz and build a momentum in order to increase your sale volume.  Start a blog at Felibri and write short articles about the subject of your book. Enter a few keywords.  Search engines will pick your blog and people will learn about you and your book.