Questions to ask print service

[Mateomono]

Hi, I'm working on my first book layout and dont have experience in this area. What are some key questions I should ask the print service?

The book is nonfiction and will be created in InDesign. I'll also be designing graphics for the book—are there any specific questions I should ask regarding that as well?

Thank you so much for your help!

[Willi Adelberger]

Ask for

1. PDF joboptions / PDF standard
2. Bleed settings
3. Color output profile
4. Minimum resoltion in PPI

[James Gifford—NitroPress]

Willi's list is a good basic start.

• What size do you plan to publish the book in (the "trim size" of the pages, cut for binding — 8-1/2x11, 6x9, etc.)?
• What binding or bindings do you want (perfect bound, casebound/hardcover, coil bound, etc.)?
• Do you want a printed color cover (any binding; called "laminate wrap" for hardcover)?
• For hardcover, do you want a traditional (cloth) binding and dust jacket?
• Do you want any color printing on the interior pages, or will it be black (text and graphics) only?
• Do you want to print a trade quantity (250-1000 or more), or use a print-on-demand fulfillment system?
• Do you intend to sell the books directly (through an Amazon Seller listing, for example), or do you want fulfillment as part of the print/POD service?
• Will you want an e-book edition as well as one or more print editions?

[Mike Witherell]

All print service companies publish a list of technical requirements, usually on their website.

[James Gifford—NitroPress]

True, and essential, but that's kind of Step Two, after you decide what general kind of book you want. Just reading the submission specs won't necessarily answer the broader questions, or at least answer them well.