ShipMyBook
Free toolsGenerate a book

Publishing glossary

What an ISBN is and when your book needs one.

An ISBN is a 13-digit book identifier that retailers, libraries, and distributors use to catalog your title.

Checked:

ISBN-13 is the current formatFree ISBNs exist on KDPEbook and paperback need separate ISBNs

ISBN basics for self-publishers

KDP offers a free ISBN for paperbacks, which lists Amazon as the publisher of record. Buying your own ISBN lets you keep the publisher name on record and reuse it across distributors.

  • Ebook ISBNs are not required on Amazon
  • Each format needs its own ISBN
  • An imprint name appears as publisher

Where the ISBN appears

The ISBN appears on the copyright page and as the EAN-13 barcode on the back cover. Keeping it consistent between your files and KDP metadata prevents listing errors.

Next release checks

Publishing glossary

ISBN barcode: the EAN-13 code on the back cover.

The ISBN barcode is the EAN-13 symbol printed on the back cover that retailers scan at sale.Open check

Free KDP metadata checklist

Check KDP book metadata against the cover before upload.

A clean interior can still be delayed by mismatched title or author text, excessive fields, URLs, or promotional claims. Review one release set locally before copying it into KDP.Open check

Publishing glossary

Imprint: the publisher name on your book.

An imprint is the publisher brand shown on the title page, copyright page, and store listing.Open check

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to buy an ISBN for KDP?

Not necessarily. KDP provides a free ISBN for paperbacks. If you want your own publisher of record or plan to distribute outside Amazon, buy one from your country's ISBN agency.

Can I reuse one ISBN for ebook and paperback?

No. Every format and edition needs its own ISBN. Reusing one causes cataloging conflicts.

Put the definition to work for free.

Run your manuscript through the matching free check and see how the term applies to your own book.

Check your book free