KDP vs IngramSpark Print Requirements
Quick answer
KDP and IngramSpark both require print-ready PDFs, but they differ in template workflow, cover handling, barcode expectations, and preflight strictness. Do not assume a KDP-ready cover or interior is automatically IngramSpark-ready. Compare trim size, bleed, spine width, barcode placement, PDF export settings, and final preflight before moving files between platforms.
When this matters
This matters when publishing the same paperback through both platforms, switching from KDP to IngramSpark, reusing a cover template, or diagnosing why one platform accepts a file and the other rejects it.
Common causes
- Trim size exists on one platform but not under the same setup on the other.
- Cover templates use different spine and barcode assumptions.
- Bleed is applied differently between cover and interior exports.
- Barcode area is handled manually on one workflow and automatically on another.
- PDF preflight expectations differ for color, fonts, transparency, or page boxes.
How to check
Start with the platform dashboard settings. Compare trim size, paper, binding, page count, and bleed mode. Then regenerate cover dimensions for each platform instead of reusing a template blindly. Check barcode placement, full cover spread dimensions, embedded fonts, and final PDF page boxes before upload.
Tool
Use the Spine Width Calculator, Cover Dimensions Calculator, and pre-upload checklist for cross-platform review.
Related platform pages
Before uploading again
Use the pre-upload checklist and run the risk scan before submitting files to a second platform.