KDP Paperback Print Specifications
This page summarizes the official Amazon KDP print requirements for paperback books.
KDP print specifications define the required geometry, export format, and resource rules for production-ready files. Following these formatting requirements helps ensure your interior and cover PDFs pass automated validation and print with correct trim, bleed, and spine alignment.
These specifications apply to:
- interior PDF files
- cover PDF files
- print-ready book layouts
If your file does not meet these specifications, KDP may reject the upload during the validation process.
KDP Print Requirements
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bleed | 0.125 inches |
| Minimum Margin | 0.25 inches |
| Image Resolution | 300 DPI |
| File Format | |
| Color Mode | CMYK preferred |
| Font Embedding | Required |
Common KDP Formatting Errors
Review these related error guides when uploads fail preflight checks:
Common KDP Trim Sizes
| Trim Size | Use Case |
|---|---|
| 5 x 8 in | small books |
| 5.5 x 8.5 in | trade paperback |
| 6 x 9 in | most nonfiction |
| 8 x 10 in | workbooks |
Your interior PDF must match the selected trim size exactly.
Bleed Requirements
Bleed ensures background artwork extends past the trim edge.
Required bleed size:
| Edge | Bleed |
|---|---|
| Top | 0.125 in |
| Bottom | 0.125 in |
| Outer | 0.125 in |
Interior pages without bleed should keep artwork inside the trim edge.
Cover Dimensions
A full cover file includes:
- back cover
- spine
- front cover
- bleed
Spine width depends on page count and paper type.
Cover dimensions must stay synchronized with trim size and final page count. If either value changes, spine width changes, which updates the total cover width and can trigger upload rejection if the PDF is not regenerated.
Useful Formatting Tools
You can calculate dimensions using:
These tools help ensure your files meet KDP print specifications.
FAQ
What resolution should images be for KDP?
Images should be 300 DPI for print quality.
Do KDP books require bleed?
Bleed is required when artwork reaches the page edge.
What file format does KDP accept?
KDP accepts PDF files for interior and cover uploads.
Why does KDP reject my PDF file?
KDP usually rejects PDFs due to trim-size mismatch, missing bleed, incorrect cover dimensions, unembedded fonts, or other print-specification conflicts.