Top 7 Print On Demand Book Companies for Shopify Store in 2025

Books are making a comeback, and not just in bookstores. For Shopify sellers in 2025, print-on-demand books offer one of the easiest ways to launch a product without managing inventory or upfront costs. 

In this guide, we’ll cover the top 7 print-on-demand book companies for Shopify in 2025, including options for both physical books and ebook print-on-demand. If you’re planning to sell books online, this list is where you start.

Why Print-on-Demand Books Are a Profitable Niche for Shopify in 2025

The print on demand market is heating up. In 2024, it was valued at $6.59 billion and is projected to reach $8.16 billion by the end of 2025, growing at a compound annual rate of 23.9%. That explosive growth includes books, journals, and guides, making print-on-demand books a timely way to tap into this trend.

Why it works:

• Zero inventory: No bulk printing, no storage—books are printed per order.
• Low startup costs: Launch with little more than a manuscript or design file.
• Customization: Offer branded journals, coloring books, or guides tailored to niche audiences.
• No shipping headaches: Fulfillment is handled by the POD provider globally.

Built for Shopify sellers:

• Most print-on-demand book companies integrate seamlessly with Shopify via apps or APIs.
• Orders and fulfillment update automatically.
• You can scale effortlessly: from 1 copy to 10,000 with no change in workflow.
• Combine with ebook print-on-demand to offer digital bundles and upsells.

What to Look for in a Print-On-Demand Book Company (2025 Standards)

Not all print-on-demand book companies are created equal. If you’re building a print-on-demand book Shopify business in 2025, here’s what matters:

• Print Format Variety: Select providers that support a range of formats beyond just paperback. In 2025, popular formats include:
  • Hardcover: Case wrap, dust jacket
  • Spiral-bound notebooks or planners
  • Guided journals and workbooks
  • Children’s books and coloring books
  • Print + ebook print-on-demand bundles

• Global Fulfillment & Shipping Speeds: Look for providers with multiple print hubs (e.g., US, UK, EU, Australia) to reduce shipping times and costs. Most top-tier services now offer 3–7 business day delivery in major regions.
• Seamless Shopify Integration: Avoid manual order uploads. Leading platforms like Lulu, Bookvault, and Gelato offer native Shopify apps or plug-ins that handle everything, from listing sync to fulfillment tracking.
• Branding & White-Label Options: Your name, not theirs. Make sure the POD partner allows for custom packaging, branded shipping labels, or “no logo” invoices.
• Customization & Print Quality: High-quality printing keeps customers coming back. Look for options like:
  • Paper choices: matte, glossy, recycled, 80–100 gsm
  • Interior: black-and-white or full-color
  • Custom covers, spine text, and trim sizes
  • ISBN assignment for self-publishing
• Pricing & Profit Margins: Watch out for hidden fees. Some platforms (like IngramSpark) charge setup or revision fees, while others (like Printify) rely on third-party print partners with varying price points. Always check margin calculators.
• Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Printing: Gelato and Bookvault now offer FSC-certified paper and carbon-neutral delivery options.

Top 7 Print-On-Demand Book Companies for Shopify Stores in 2025

A Quick Comparison Table: Best POD Book Companies for Shopify [2025]

Company	Key features	Pricing	Producing times	Shipping times	Best For
Bookvault	– Shopify app integration- Hardcover, spiral, saddle-stitch, special editions- Retailer metadata support- Sales analytics	– Setup: £19.95- Indie: £24.95/mo- Pro: £89.95/mo- Print from £1.17 (paperback)	3–7 business days	UK: 1–5 daysUS/EU: 3–8 days	Indie authors, custom planners, and branding control
Lulu xPress	– Global print hubs- Paperback, hardcover, magazine formats- Shopify app (Lulu Direct)- Ebook print on demand	– Free to use- 200p B&W paperback ~US $5.34- Hardcover ~US $12.30	3–5 business days	Varies by region and carrier	Self-publishers, global reach, print + ebook bundles
Printify	– 90+ third-party vendors- Journals, notebooks, planners- Free mockup/design tool- Shopify app	– Free plan or Premium $29/mo- Notebook ~$2–5 depending on vendor	2–7 days (vendor-base)	3–10 business days	Notebook sellers, vendor flexibility, and fast turnaround
Blurb	– BookWright + Adobe plugins- Trade & photo books- Retail via Amazon, Ingram- Offset printing options	– No setup fee- Trade paperback ~$5–9.50- Layflat photobook $125+	4–5 business days	1–5 days, depending on location	Photo books, creatives, design-focused content
Gelato	– 140+ local print hubs- Eco-focused production- Shopify app integration- Wide non-book product range	– Free / Gelato+: $14.99/mo- Gold: $99/mo- Discounts up to 50%- Notebook ~$6–8	3–4 business days	3–5 days globally	Eco-friendly sellers, planners, and international Shopify stores
IngramSpark	– Paperback, hardcover, and ebook support- Retail/library distribution- Royalties + wholesale settings- Returnable options	– No setup fee- B&W paperback ~$4–6- Revision fee: $25/file- 1.5% wholesale fee	~5 business days	Region-based + retailer delays	Authors needing bookstore access, global wholesale distribution
Shirtigo	– Fast EU production- Shopify + Etsy integration- Custom notebooks/planners- Eco packaging options	– Free app- Notebook ~€7.50- Extra fees for branding, express, inserts	1–5 business days	EU: 2–7 business days	Stationery brands, EU-based sellers, fast-branded delivery

1. Bookvault

Bookvault is a UK-based print-on-demand platform tailored for indie authors and small publishers. It offers global shipping through fulfillment hubs in both the UK and the US and connects seamlessly with Shopify. The platform manages printing, order fulfillment, sales analytics, and retailer distribution without requiring minimum print runs.

Key Features

• Integration with Shopify (and more): One-click install app that auto-syncs products, orders, and fulfillment.
• Format Flexibility: Offers paperback, hardcover (cloth or dust jacket), spiral-bound, wiro-bound, saddle-stitched, and book jackets from a single copy.

• Special-edition printing: Available for single-copy bespoke features like sprayed edges, foil stamping, ribbons, slipcases
• Global fulfilment: Multiple print hubs (UK, US, AU); standard shipping takes 3–5 days in most regions, 72 hrs in the UK
• Data-Driven Insights: Sales metrics show order origin, pricing, and margins for smarter strategy.

Pricing

• Setup: £19.95 one-time for “myBookVault” (free tier).
• Monthly Plans:
  • Indie: £24.95/month, £4.95 per title setup
  • Pro: £89.95/month, no setup fee, higher discounts (3–15%)
• Per-Unit Print Costs: Paperback from £1.17; Hardcover from £3.82; Spiral-bound from £1.52; Saddle-stitch from £0.49

Printing & Shipping Time

• UK facility:
  • Standard: 5–7 business days
  • Express: ~3 business days
  • Priority (UK-only): same-day or next-day dispatch
• US production: Paperbacks dispatch in ~5 days; hardcovers in ~7 days
• Delivery:
  • UK: DPD next-day; Royal Mail 2–5 days
  • Europe: FedEx 3–5 days
  • US: UPS Ground 1–5 days; USPS Media Mail 2–8 days

Best For

• Indie authors selling through Shopify or WooCommerce
• Small-volume publishers wanting luxury or special editions
• Sellers prioritizing brand control and profit margins

2. Lulu xPress

Lulu xPress is one of the oldest POD book platforms, known for its global print network and strong Shopify integration via the free Lulu Direct app. With production hubs in the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and India, Lulu xPress handles everything from book printing to shipping and retailer distribution.

Key Features

• Wide Format Options: Supports paperback, hardcover (case wrap or dust jacket), coil- and saddle-stitch binding, plus photo books, magazines, and calendars.

• Global Production Hubs: Multiple printing locations allow you to reduce shipping time and costs worldwide.
• Ebook Fulfillment: Sell ebook print on demand alongside physical books—downloads are available instantly after purchase.
• Shopify App Integration: The Lulu Direct Shopify app syncs catalogs, orders, and shipment tracking in real-time.
• Retail Distribution: Offers optional distribution through retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble, tapping into wholesale networks.

Pricing

• Setup & App: Lulu Direct app is free; only pay for printing and shipping.
• Print Costs: Example book (200-page paperback, B&W matte): ~US $5.34 per copy; hardcover ~US $12.30; color interior and premium binding incur additional costs.

Printing & Shipping Time

• Production: 3–5 business days, depending on format and region.
• Delivery estimates: Varies by carrier, region, and selected shipping option (e.g., US mail, FedEx, international customs).

Best For

• Self-publishers offering both print and ebook print on demand
• Shopify stores wanting global production and shipping
• Publishers needing optional retail distribution

3. Printify (via third-party book vendors)

Printify links Shopify stores to a global network of third-party print providers, including those who produce notebooks and journals. Although it’s not a dedicated book POD service, it still offers flexible, book-style products. This makes it a great choice for selling print-on-demand notebooks, planners, and some softcover formats.

Key Features

• Extensive Vendor Network: Access to 90+ print providers globally, allowing you to choose the best quality and pricing.
• Non-book Print Products: Best for journals, spiral-bound notebooks, planners, coloring pads.
• Shopify Integration: Free Shopify app with order sync, product mockups, and shipping integration.
• Designer Tools: Built-in mockup and design generator, no minimum order volume.
• Flexible Pricing Plans: A free plan is available; the premium plan offers volume discounts starting at $29 per month.

Pricing

• Free Plan: No monthly fee; pay per product ordered.
• Premium Plan: $29/month; up to 20% discount on select vendors/products.
• Example Print Cost: Typically $2–5 per notebook; pricing varies by vendor and customization.

Printing & Shipping Time

• Production & Dispatch: 2–7 days (vendor-dependent).
• Delivery Time: Matches vendor’s shipping— 3–10 business days, depending on geography and carrier.

Best For

• Shopify merchants selling notebooks, journals, planners, coloring & activity books
• Stores needing varied vendor options for quality and price
• Sellers wanting fast turnaround without minimum print volume

4. Blurb

Founded in 2005, Blurb is an American self-publishing platform, offering both physical and digital books through its proprietary BookWright tool, Adobe plugins, and a robust online API. It supports over 70 countries, enables global distribution via the Blurb Bookstore and Ingram, and integrates seamlessly with popular creative software.

Key Features

• Creative Tools: Includes BookWright software plus plugins for InDesign, Lightroom, and Photoshop.
• Format Range: Offers trade paperbacks, hardcovers (with dust jacket or ImageWrap), lay-flat photo books, magazines, notebooks, calendars, and coloring/activity books.
• Global Distribution: Orders can be sold via Blurb’s storefront, Amazon, Ingram’s 39,000+ bookstore network, and select retail partners.
• Volume Discounts: Discounts start at orders of 10+ copies; offset printing is available at 750+ units, lowering per-unit cost significantly.
• Self-Service API: Offers a public API with no setup fees, allowing custom integration for Shopify stores wanting to connect through redirect or backend sync.

Pricing

• No Setup Fees: Free to upload and publish—pay only for printing and shipping

Example Costs:

• Trade paperback (~150–200 pages, B&W): $5.20–9.50 per copy.
• Hardcover photo book (layflat, 100 pages): $125.50–289

Printing & Shipping Time

• Production: 4–5 business days for printing and binding.
• Delivery: Typically 1–5 additional business days, varying by location and shipping method. Total estimated time: 6–10 business days from order to delivery.

Best For

• Creatives and authors producing photo-heavy or design-focused books
• Sellers needing integration with Adobe tools and aesthetic quality
• Shopify merchants willing to direct buyers via link/app, not native checkout

5. Gelato

Gelato is a globally distributed POD network with 140+ production partners across 32 countries, designed to deliver localized printing and fulfillment. It integrates natively with Shopify and other major ecommerce platforms, automatically routing orders to the closest print hub for faster, greener shipping. 

Key features

• Ultra-Local Fulfillment: Orders are produced close to customers, reducing lead times and carbon footprint.
• Wide Product Range: Includes photo books, notebooks, calendars, cards, apparel, and more (though traditional novels are limited).
• Shopify Integration: Direct Shopify app with one-click installation, real-time order syncing, and shipment tracking.
• Sustainability Focus: Eco-friendly options include carbon-neutral delivery, local production, and on-demand printing to reduce waste.
• Discounts for Businesses: Gelato+ (≈$14.99/mo) and Gelato Gold (≈$99/mo) unlock 25–50% discounts on shipping and product pricing

Pricing

• Free Plan: $0/month.
• Gelato+: $25/month or $249/year – up to 20% off products, premium mockups, branded packaging.
• Gold: $129/month or $1,285/year – up to 25% off, 30% off branded inserts, advanced pricing tools.
• Platinum: Custom pricing – includes dedicated support and implementation services.

Printing & Shipping time

• Production: 3–4 business days (varies by product and region).
• Delivery: 3–5 days on standard shipping, available globally via multiple carriers.

Best for

• Merchants wanting eco-conscious, localized fulfillment
• Stores selling photo books, notebooks, calendars, and non-novel print items
• Shopify sellers needing fast production with integrated sustainability

6. IngramSpark

IngramSpark is a print-on-demand (POD) and distribution powerhouse, combining Lightning Source’s printing capabilities with Ingram’s global wholesale network. It supports hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats, enabling authors to reach retail and library markets worldwide using a single upload.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Format Support: Print in hardcover, trade paperback, and ebook formats with built-in ISBN assignment.
• Global Distribution: Available through Ingram’s retail network (including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and libraries) and via wholesale with flexible returnability settings.
• Wholesale Agreements: Publishers can set wholesale discounts; typically, 53–55% of books are sold into brick-and-mortar stores.
• Proofing Options: Low-cost physical proofs; handling fees apply (~$1.99 plus printing for 2–5 day turnaround).
• Analytics Dashboard: Includes a Publisher Compensation Calculator and monthly royalty statements.

Pricing

• Account & Upload: Free to sign up and upload eBooks or print titles.
• Print & Ship Costs: Vary by specs—use online calculator to estimate; typical B&W paperbacks start at ~$4–6 plus shipping.
• Revision Fees: $25 per file revision after the first 12 months.
• Wholesale Fee: 1.5% retail sale fee effective April 2025.

Printing & Shipping Time

• Print Time: Standard print is ~5 business days; rush available at additional cost.
• Shipping & Retail Orders: Shipping times vary by destination; retail orders can take longer due to retailer processing.

Best For

• Authors seeking brick-and-mortar bookstore access
• Stores selling both print books and ebook print on demand
• Publishers needing flexible returnability and global distribution

7. Shirtigo (Germany-based with book options via integrations)

Shirtigo is a Germany-based print-on-demand service built on Industry 4.0 production, supporting Shopify, WooCommerce, and other platforms. While primarily known for apparel, its system also supports notebooks, posters, and stationery.

Key Features

• Multi-channel Integration: Connects with Shopify, Etsy, eBay, Amazon, Orderdesk, and more via API or native apps—products and orders sync automatically.
• Express Production: In-house manufacturing allows 1–5 business day production lead time—fastest in the EU.
• Branding & Packaging Options: Supports micro-branding inserts, custom labels, stickers, and blind shipping—enhances brand identity without revealing Shirtigo.
• Eco-conscious Materials: Uses organic textiles, vegan Kornit inks, and climate-neutral shipping—Plastic-free primary packaging.
• Inventory & Order Visibility: Real-time stock info and tracking updates are visible within the Shopify admin, from raw goods to shipment.

Pricing

• App: Free to install on Shopify.
• Product Costs: Vary by item. For example, a custom notebook runs approximately €7.50 per unit (plus shipping in USD).
• No Monthly Fee: Pay per order only; branding inserts, returns handling, and express service may incur additional fees.

Printing & Shipping Time

• Production: 1–5 business days in Germany—all manufacturing in-house.
• Shipping: Europe-wide delivery within an additional 2–7 days, depending on the carrier and region.

Best For

• Merchants selling notebooks, planners, and stationery
• Shopify stores needing fast, branded production in Europe
• Sellers are prioritizing eco-friendly materials and local fulfillment

How to Integrate POD Book Companies with Your Shopify Store

Method 1: Manual vs. App-Based Integration

App-Based (Recommended)

Use native Shopify apps like Lulu Direct, Gelato, Printify, or Shirtigo Cockpit.

• Step 1: Go to Shopify Admin → Apps and sales channels
• Step 2: Click Shopify App Store (top-right corner)

• Step 3: Search for the POD provider and click Install
• Step 4: Follow the onboarding steps inside the app
• Step 5: Sync your products and set up fulfillment rules

→ New orders will automatically sync to your POD provider for printing and shipping.

Manual (Fallback Option)

Use only if the provider doesn’t offer a Shopify app.

• Step 1: Export orders from Shopify as CSV
• Step 2: Upload orders manually to your POD dashboard
• Step 3: Handle fulfillment and tracking updates yourself

Method 2: Use of Zapier, Order Desk, or Native API

Zapier

Use Zapier to connect Shopify with a POD provider that doesn’t have a native app.

• Step 1: Set the trigger: “New Order in Shopify”

• Step 2: Set the action: “Create Order” (if your POD service supports it)
• Step 3: Works well for Blurb, IngramSpark, or hybrid setups

Note: Not all POD platforms support direct Zapier actions. Check their Zapier app page first.

Order Desk

Order Desk is a third-party app that acts as a bridge between Shopify and many POD services.

• Step 1: Install the Order Desk and connect it to your Shopify store

• Step 2: Set rules for routing orders, matching SKUs, and syncing tracking
• Step 3: Ideal if you’re using multiple POD vendors or need custom routing logic

Native API or Webhooks

If your POD provider offers an API (e.g., Blurb, IngramSpark):

• Step 1: Set up a Shopify webhook for orders/create
• Step 2: Use the POD provider’s API to push the order data
• Step 3: Requires developer support or a platform like Make.com for a no-code setup

Method 3: Automating Order Sync, Fulfillment Tracking, Customer Notifications

1. Enable automatic fulfillment in Shopify:

• Go to Shopify Admin → Settings → Checkout → Order processing
• Check the box: “Automatically fulfill the order line items.”

2. Ensure tracking info is synced back:

• If using a native POD app (e.g., Lulu, Printify), tracking updates automatically
• If using Zapier or API, you’ll need to push tracking info manually to Shopify (via webhook or admin)

3. Shopify handles customer notifications:

• Once fulfillment and tracking are updated, Shopify will send automatic emails to the customer

Tips for Managing Shipping Rates, Taxes, and Print Specs inside the Shopify 

Managing logistics well helps your print-on-demand books Shopify store avoid customer complaints and protect your margins. Here’s how to stay on top of it:

• Set accurate shipping rates: If your POD provider doesn’t support live rates, create flat rates based on average shipping costs. For example: $4.99 for domestic orders and $7.99 for Europe. Don’t forget to include both printing and delivery time in your estimate.
• Include production time in delivery estimates: Print-on-demand books usually take 3–7 days to print. Add this to your shipping time to avoid unrealistic expectations. A message like “Ships in 6–10 business days” builds trust and avoids confusion.
• Set up tax rules by region: Use Shopify’s built-in tax settings to apply the correct rates. For EU/UK, enable VAT if you’re registered. For U.S., Shopify auto-applies state taxes, but check your nexus rules to stay compliant.
• Show complete print details on each product page: Include page count, book size (e.g., 6″ x 9″), interior type (color or B&W), binding format, and paper quality. This sets clear expectations and reduces refund requests, especially for journals and premium editions.
• Use the correct product weight: If your POD app calculates shipping by weight, make sure the weight entered in Shopify matches the actual product. You can usually find the correct weight in the provider’s documentation or pricing tool.
• Test your checkout process before launching: Run a test order to see what the customer sees. Confirm shipping rates, taxes, and fulfillment timing all display correctly. Catching small issues early saves you from major customer headaches later.

Ending Words

Print-on-demand books on Shopify open the door to low-risk, high-potential publishing, whether you’re a creator, coach, or entrepreneur. With the right platform and setup, turning your content into a physical product is easier than ever. Now’s the time to build, ship, and scale, one book at a time!

Print-On-Demand Books on Shopify: FAQs