Isbnagency.com Review

Based on looking at the website, Isbnagency.com positions itself as a cost-effective solution for self-publishing authors seeking ISBNs and barcodes.

While it offers a seemingly straightforward service, a closer examination reveals several critical points that potential users should consider before committing.

The site aims to simplify the ISBN acquisition process, providing bundles that include an ISBN, a barcode, and some marketing assistance.

However, the core issue lies in the nature of the ISBNs provided—they are not directly assigned to the author but are rather part of a bulk purchase made by “Movement Publishing” from Bowker.

This arrangement means the author does not officially own the ISBN as a publisher, which can have significant implications for long-term control and official recognition.

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Here’s an overall review summary:

• Service Offered: Provides ISBNs and barcodes, along with some marketing support.
• Pricing: $34.99 for an ISBN and free barcode.
• Ownership Model: ISBNs are from “Movement Publishing’s” bulk purchase, not directly assigned to the author.
• Transparency: Acknowledges the ISBN is under “Movement Publishing” but assures authors can use their own publisher name on their book.
• Key Selling Point: Cost savings compared to direct purchase from Bowker.
• Potential Concerns: Lack of direct ISBN ownership for the author, implications for future publishing endeavors, and reliance on a third-party’s bulk purchase.
• Refund Policy: 30-day full refund available.
• Customer Support: Primarily via email.

While Isbnagency.com presents an attractive low-cost option for independent authors, the fundamental structure of how it provides ISBNs raises flags.

An ISBN is a unique identifier for a book, and traditionally, it’s linked directly to the publisher.

When an author’s book is tied to a third-party publisher’s ISBN, even if the author retains rights, it can complicate matters for official listings, distribution, and future professional branding.

For anyone serious about their publishing career, direct ownership and control over their ISBNs are paramount.

The “discount” comes with a trade-off that might not be immediately apparent but could impact the author’s autonomy and professional standing in the long run.

It’s akin to renting property when you truly aspire to own it—you have use, but not ultimate control.

Here are some ethical and practical alternatives for authors looking to publish their work, focusing on direct ownership, transparent practices, and tools that empower creators without compromising long-term integrity:

• Bowker:

  • Key Features: The official ISBN agency for the U.S. Direct ISBN purchase, allowing authors to be listed as the publisher. Offers various packages for single or multiple ISBNs.
  • Price: Starts around $125 for a single ISBN, with discounts for bulk purchases e.g., 10 ISBNs for $295.
  • Pros: Direct ownership of ISBN, full control over publisher identity, official recognition in industry databases.
  • Cons: Higher upfront cost compared to reseller services.

• KDP Kindle Direct Publishing:

  

  • Key Features: Offers a free ISBN for books published exclusively through KDP. Integrated publishing platform for eBooks and print-on-demand paperbacks.
  • Price: Free ISBN for KDP-published books. publishing platform is free to use with royalty-based earnings.
  • Pros: Easy to use, wide distribution to Amazon’s global audience, free ISBN for platform-specific use.
  • Cons: The free ISBN is KDP-specific and cannot be used for publishing elsewhere. Less control over some formatting aspects.

• IngramSpark:

  • Key Features: Offers print-on-demand and global distribution services. Authors can use their own ISBN purchased from Bowker or purchase one through IngramSpark directly though it’s still recommended to buy from Bowker for direct ownership.
  • Price: Setup fees apply for print and Ebook versions e.g., $49 for print, $25 for Ebook, but promotions often waive these fees.
  • Pros: Global distribution to thousands of retailers, libraries, and academic institutions. High-quality print options.
  • Cons: Requires a purchased ISBN for broader distribution. Can be more complex for new authors than KDP.

• Draft2Digital:

  • Key Features: Free ISBN for ebooks and print books distributed through their platform. Aggregator service that distributes to major retailers like Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and more.
  • Price: Free ISBN and publishing platform. D2D takes a percentage of sales.
  • Pros: User-friendly interface, wide distribution, free ISBNs that are more broadly usable than KDP’s free ISBNs, excellent customer support.
  • Cons: Less control over individual retail listings compared to direct uploads.

• Lulu:

  • Key Features: Print-on-demand and ebook publishing services. Offers free ISBNs for books published through their platform.
  • Price: Free ISBN for Lulu-published books. publishing platform is free to use.
  • Pros: Good for print-on-demand, user-friendly interface, global distribution network.
  • Cons: Free ISBN is tied to Lulu as the publisher of record, limiting independent control.

• Smashwords:

  • Key Features: Offers free ISBNs for ebooks distributed through their platform. Focuses on ebook distribution to various retailers.
  • Price: Free ISBN for Smashwords-published ebooks. publishing platform is free to use.
  • Pros: Wide ebook distribution, good for authors looking to get their work on many platforms, user-friendly.
  • Cons: Primarily for ebooks, not as robust for print-on-demand.

• PublishDrive:

  • Key Features: Global ebook and audiobook distribution platform. Can integrate with print-on-demand partners. Authors can use their own ISBN or purchase one through PublishDrive.
  • Price: Subscription-based model e.g., $9.99/month for unlimited distribution or royalty-share model.
  • Pros: Wide global reach, comprehensive analytics, supports various formats.
  • Cons: Subscription model might be a barrier for some authors. not as well-known as some competitors.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Isbnagency.com Review & First Look: A Deeper Dive into the Offering

When you land on Isbnagency.com, the immediate impression is one of simplicity and a clear value proposition: “Get an ISBN for $34.99 with FREE Barcode.” This headline is designed to grab the attention of self-publishing authors who are often navigating the complex and sometimes costly world of book production.

The site emphasizes affordability and ease, promising a one-time fee with no hidden charges, ever.

It highlights key inclusions like a print-ready ISBN barcode, a free web page for marketing, and guidance on listing books on major platforms like Amazon, iBooks, and Barnes & Noble.

The Catch in the Convenience Tron-income.com Review

While the initial offer seems incredibly appealing, especially when compared to the higher direct purchase costs from Bowker, a crucial detail on the homepage reveals the underlying structure: “Each publishing package includes an ISBN that Movement Publishing has purchased from Bowker in bulk, meaning the ISBN is listed on Bowker’s private website under the publisher name Movement Publishing.” This is the cornerstone of Isbnagency.com’s model and the most significant point of consideration for any author.

• The “Publisher of Record” Dilemma: When an ISBN is registered, it’s linked to a publisher of record. In this case, it’s “Movement Publishing,” not the author. This means that if a bookstore or library looks up the ISBN in the official Bowker database which is largely invisible to the public, as Isbnagency.com correctly states, “Movement Publishing” will appear as the publisher.
• Author’s Branding vs. Official Record: Isbnagency.com assures authors, “I don’t require you to use my publisher name. In other words, you are free to use your own publisher name on your actual book, book marketing, etc.” This is true for outward-facing branding. You can put your own imprint name on your book’s title page, copyright page, and marketing materials. However, the official, backend record with Bowker will still show “Movement Publishing.”
• Implications for Professionalism: For most self-published authors, this distinction might seem minor. However, for those aiming for a long-term publishing career, seeking traditional distribution channels, or dealing with professional library acquisitions, having their own direct publisher registration and ISBNs is generally preferred. It establishes a clear, professional identity and avoids any potential confusion or complications down the line.

What They Provide Beyond the ISBN

Beyond the ISBN itself, the agency offers a few extras that add to the perceived value:

• Free Print-Ready ISBN Barcode: This is a genuinely useful inclusion, as barcodes are essential for retail sales and would typically be an additional cost or require specific software to generate correctly.
• Free Web Page for Marketing: A dedicated page on Isbnagency.com for your book. While not a standalone website, it can serve as a basic online presence and a landing spot for potential readers.
• Information on Listing Books: Guidance on how to get your product listed on major online retailers like Amazon, iBooks, and Barnes & Noble. This can be helpful for new authors unfamiliar with the process.
• Quickstart Videos: Short, instructional videos on how to buy an ISBN, download the barcode, and claim the free web page. This visual guidance can be beneficial for users.

Overall, Isbnagency.com provides a budget-friendly entry point into the world of ISBNs and self-publishing, but it’s crucial for authors to fully understand the implications of not owning the ISBN directly from Bowker.

The convenience and low cost are the primary draws, but the trade-off is direct control over one’s official publisher identity. Vaadaymedia.xyz Review

Isbnagency.com Cons: The Hidden Costs of Convenience

While Isbnagency.com presents a compelling low-cost option for acquiring an ISBN, it’s vital to look beyond the attractive price tag and understand the potential drawbacks.

For authors serious about their publishing career, the “cons” of using such a service can outweigh the initial financial savings.

These aren’t necessarily “hidden fees” in the monetary sense, but rather a different kind of cost related to control, professionalism, and long-term implications.

• Lack of Direct Publisher Ownership: This is, without a doubt, the most significant drawback. When you purchase an ISBN directly from Bowker, you register as the publisher, and your imprint name is officially associated with that ISBN in the global database. With Isbnagency.com, the ISBN is registered under “Movement Publishing.” While Isbnagency.com states you can use your own publisher name on your book, the official record will still reflect “Movement Publishing.”

  • Impact: This can be a point of confusion for libraries, bookstores, or other professional entities looking to verify publisher information. It can also complicate matters if you later decide to establish a formal publishing company under your own imprint.
  • Control: True control over your publishing identity means having your own imprint registered with Bowker. This service essentially leases you an ISBN from another publisher’s block.

• Limited ISBN Block Ownership: Authors who plan to publish multiple books will find this model restrictive. Buying a block of 10 or 100 ISBNs from Bowker e.g., Bowker is significantly more cost-effective per ISBN in the long run and grants the author full ownership and flexibility for all future titles. Isbnagency.com’s offer is for a single ISBN from their block, tying each book you publish through them to “Movement Publishing.” Alsalim.org Review

  • Scalability: This model isn’t scalable for a prolific author or someone building a significant backlist. Each new book would require another purchase through them, continually linking your work to their parent publisher.

• Potential Perception Issues: While most readers won’t check the Bowker database, professional reviewers, librarians, or even some literary agents might. Seeing a different publisher of record than what’s on the book’s imprint could raise questions or give a less professional impression compared to an author with their own registered publisher name.

  • Credibility: For authors aspiring to bridge the gap between self-publishing and traditional publishing, or those seeking institutional sales, every element of professionalism counts.

• Reliance on a Third Party: Your ISBN is tied to “Movement Publishing.” While Isbnagency.com seems stable, any change in their operations, or even the eventual dissolution of “Movement Publishing,” could theoretically have an impact on the historical record of your ISBNs, though unlikely to affect the book’s availability. This reliance on a third-party for a core identifier adds a layer of indirectness.

• No Access to Bowker’s Self-Service Features: When you buy directly from Bowker, you get access to their MyIdentifiers account, where you can manage your ISBNs, update metadata, register your publisher name, and utilize other tools they offer for authors and publishers. Using Isbnagency.com means you don’t have this direct access or control.

In essence, the “cons” revolve around the fundamental concept of ownership and control.

While Isbnagency.com offers a cheap entry point, it doesn’t offer the same level of independent publisher status that purchasing directly from Bowker provides. Freedomphone.com Review

For authors for whom long-term branding, professional identity, and complete autonomy are priorities, these “hidden costs” of convenience are significant and warrant careful consideration.

Isbnagency.com Alternatives: Empowering Authors with Direct Ownership

When considering ISBNs, the golden rule for serious self-publishers is direct ownership. While services like Isbnagency.com offer a budget-friendly path, they typically involve using an ISBN block owned by a third-party publisher. This can subtly undermine your long-term control and professional identity. The best alternatives empower you as the true publisher of record.

Here are the top alternatives, emphasizing direct ownership and broad distribution capabilities:

• Bowker The Official Source

  • Key Features: The sole official source for ISBNs in the United States. Purchasing directly allows you to register your own imprint name as the publisher of record, providing complete control and professional legitimacy. Offers various packages from single ISBNs to blocks of 10, 100, or 1000. Includes free barcode generation and access to the MyIdentifiers account for managing your ISBNs and metadata.
  • Price: A single ISBN costs $125. A block of 10 ISBNs is $295 $29.50 per ISBN, and 100 ISBNs cost $575 $5.75 per ISBN. The per-ISBN cost drops significantly with larger blocks.
  • Pros: Absolute direct ownership and control, professional credibility, ability to use your own imprint name, essential for library and bookstore distribution, future-proof for multiple titles.
  • Cons: Higher initial cost for a single ISBN compared to reseller services or platform-specific free options.
  • Why it’s the best choice: If you want to be recognized as the actual publisher of your work, this is the way to go. For example, if you plan to publish just two books, buying a block of 10 from Bowker is already more economical per ISBN than two separate purchases from Isbnagency.com and gives you eight more for future projects.

• Kindle Direct Publishing KDP Platform-Specific Free ISBN

  Akridingsports.com Review

  • Key Features: Amazon’s self-publishing platform. Offers a free ISBN for both Kindle ebooks and print-on-demand paperbacks that are published exclusively through KDP. This ISBN is assigned by KDP and lists “Amazon KDP” as the publisher of record.
  • Price: Free for KDP-only use. no upfront costs for publishing.
  • Pros: Easy to use, seamless integration with Amazon’s vast marketplace, excellent for reaching a wide audience, cost-effective for single titles published solely on KDP.
  • Cons: The ISBN is proprietary to KDP. it cannot be used if you decide to publish your book on other platforms e.g., Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo. You would need a separate ISBN for each other platform. Less control over some formatting and distribution aspects compared to using your own ISBN.

• IngramSpark Global Distribution with Your Own ISBN

  • Key Features: A leading print-on-demand and global distribution service. Unlike KDP, IngramSpark encourages and essentially requires for broad reach authors to use their own ISBN purchased from Bowker. They offer powerful tools for print quality, metadata management, and distribution to thousands of retailers, libraries, and academic institutions worldwide.
  • Price: Setup fees typically apply e.g., $49 for print, $25 for ebook, though often waived via promotions. You must purchase your ISBN separately from Bowker.
  • Pros: Unparalleled global distribution reach, professional-grade print quality, excellent for authors serious about wide availability, integrates well with your own Bowker-purchased ISBN.
  • Cons: Requires a separately purchased ISBN. Can be slightly more complex for beginners than KDP. Setup fees exist though frequently discounted.

• Draft2Digital Aggregator with Free, More Flexible ISBNs

  • Key Features: A user-friendly ebook and print-on-demand aggregator that distributes your book to a wide array of retailers Apple Books, B&N, Kobo, etc. and libraries. Offers a free ISBN for both ebooks and print books if you publish through their service. These D2D-provided ISBNs are generally more portable than KDP’s free ones, allowing broader distribution through D2D’s network.
  • Price: Free to use. D2D takes a percentage of sales. Free ISBNs provided.
  • Pros: Very easy to use, wide distribution to numerous platforms beyond Amazon, free ISBNs are a good option for authors not ready to invest in Bowker, excellent customer support.
  • Cons: You don’t own the ISBN directly Draft2Digital is the publisher of record for their free ISBNs. Less direct control over individual retail listings compared to uploading everywhere yourself.

• Lulu Print-on-Demand Focused with Free ISBN

  • Key Features: Primarily known for print-on-demand services, Lulu also offers ebook publishing. They provide a free ISBN for books published through their platform.
  • Price: Free to use. Lulu takes a share of sales. Free ISBNs provided.
  • Pros: Good for print quality, user-friendly interface for creating print books, offers distribution to major retailers, suitable for authors creating physical copies.
  • Cons: The free ISBN lists Lulu as the publisher of record. While functional, it doesn’t confer direct ownership.

• Smashwords Ebook Aggregator with Free ISBNs Wpwebhost.com Review

  • Key Features: A long-standing ebook aggregator that distributes to Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and other major ebook retailers. Offers free ISBNs for ebooks published through their platform.
  • Price: Free to use. Smashwords takes a percentage of sales. Free ISBNs provided.
  • Pros: Extensive ebook distribution, good for authors focused purely on digital books, a pioneer in the self-publishing space.
  • Cons: Primarily for ebooks, not ideal for print books. The free ISBNs list Smashwords as the publisher of record.

• PublishDrive Global Reach with Subscription or Royalty Share

  • Key Features: A sophisticated platform for global ebook and audiobook distribution, with integration for print-on-demand. Authors can either use their own Bowker-purchased ISBN or acquire one through PublishDrive.
  • Price: Offers a subscription model e.g., around $10/month for unlimited distribution or a royalty-share model.
  • Pros: Very wide global distribution, comprehensive analytics, supports many formats, good for authors looking to expand internationally.
  • Cons: The subscription model might be a higher barrier for some new authors. While they offer ISBN acquisition, using your own from Bowker is still recommended for maximum control.

Choosing the right alternative depends on your publishing goals. If long-term professional control and direct ownership are paramount, Bowker is the essential first step. If you’re starting small and want to test the waters with a free, platform-specific ISBN, KDP or Draft2Digital are excellent choices. For comprehensive global print distribution, IngramSpark is the industry standard paired with your Bowker ISBN.

How to Cancel Isbnagency.com “Subscription” One-Time Purchase

Isbnagency.com explicitly states, “Is this a one-time fee? Yes. This is a one-time fee.

There are no additional charges or fees — EVER.” This means that technically, there is no “subscription” to cancel in the traditional sense of recurring payments. You pay for a service once, and that’s it.

However, if you’ve purchased an ISBN from Isbnagency.com and wish to “cancel” the transaction or perhaps return the ISBN because you no longer need it or are dissatisfied, you would be looking at their refund policy. Toddycafe.com Review

• Refund Policy: The website states: “If you are not satisfied for any reason, just email me within 30 days for a full refund.”
• Process:
  1. Email Michael: The stated point of contact for customer service and refunds is Michael. You would need to send an email to [email protected] within 30 days of your purchase.
  2. Clearly State Your Request: In your email, clearly state that you are requesting a full refund for your ISBN purchase and provide your order details e.g., date of purchase, name, email used for the purchase.
  3. Await Confirmation: They should process your refund and send you a confirmation.

It’s important to note that once an ISBN is assigned to a book and published, it becomes part of the public record, even if the book is later withdrawn. While Isbnagency.com facilitates the ISBN’s assignment from Movement Publishing’s block, a refund means you will no longer have access to that specific ISBN from them, and they will likely reclaim or reassign it from their block if it hasn’t been used. If you’ve already published a book using the ISBN obtained from them, canceling and getting a refund might not be practical, as the ISBN is already tied to your book. The refund policy is primarily for those who change their mind before active use or within the initial review period.

Isbnagency.com Pricing: A Look at the “Discount” Model

The core appeal of Isbnagency.com lies in its pricing model: a single ISBN and barcode for $34.99. This is presented as a significant discount compared to purchasing directly from Bowker, the official U.S. ISBN agency.

Let’s break down this pricing and what it truly means.

• The Flat Rate:

  • Cost: $34.99 for one ISBN.
  • Inclusions: This fee includes the ISBN, a free print-ready ISBN barcode, a free web page for marketing your book on their site, and useful information on how to list your book on major platforms.
  • One-Time Fee: They explicitly state there are no recurring charges or hidden fees.
• The “Discount” Explained: Bjbenterprises.com Review

  • Isbnagency.com highlights that Bowker charges $125 for a single ISBN. By offering it at $34.99, they claim to save you “‘$75 or more.” This is where the bulk purchase model comes into play.
  • Bulk Purchase: Isbnagency.com through “Movement Publishing” buys ISBNs in large blocks from Bowker. For example, a block of 1,000 ISBNs from Bowker costs $1,000, bringing the per-ISBN cost down to just $1. This allows resellers to offer individual ISBNs at a significant markup from their acquisition cost but still well below Bowker’s single-ISBN price.
  • The Trade-off: While you save money on the individual ISBN, you sacrifice direct ownership and the ability to register your own imprint with Bowker. Your book’s official ISBN record will show “Movement Publishing” as the publisher, even if you brand your book under your own imprint.

• Comparing to Bowker’s Pricing for context:

  • Single ISBN: $125
  • Block of 10 ISBNs: $295 $29.50 per ISBN
  • Block of 100 ISBNs: $575 $5.75 per ISBN
  • Block of 1,000 ISBNs: $1,000 $1.00 per ISBN

• When Isbnagency.com’s Price Makes Sense and when it doesn’t:

  • Makes sense if: You are publishing a single book, are on a very tight budget, and are not concerned with establishing your own official publisher imprint or publishing multiple books under the same ISBN block. You simply need an ISBN to get your book listed, and the “publisher of record” detail isn’t a priority for your specific goals.
  • Doesn’t make sense if: You plan to publish more than one book. If you buy just two ISBNs from Isbnagency.com, that’s $69.98. For an extra $25.02, you could have purchased a block of 10 ISBNs directly from Bowker for $295, giving you eight more ISBNs and full direct ownership. This quickly highlights that the “discount” is only significant for a single ISBN purchase, and even then, only if direct ownership isn’t a concern. For any serious author, buying a block from Bowker is the more economical and professional long-term strategy.

In summary, Isbnagency.com offers a price that seems attractive for a standalone ISBN.

However, this “discount” comes at the cost of not being the direct publisher of record and is only financially advantageous for a singular title where future publishing plans or professional branding are not a priority.

For authors aiming for a long-term presence in the publishing world, the investment in a Bowker ISBN block offers far superior value and control. Improvemychess.com Review

Isbnagency.com vs. Competitors: A Comparison of Approaches

Comparing Isbnagency.com to other services in the self-publishing ecosystem reveals distinct philosophies and offerings, primarily centered around ISBN ownership and distribution.

It’s not a direct apples-to-apples comparison with most, as Isbnagency.com is an ISBN reseller, while many alternatives are full-service publishing platforms or official ISBN distributors.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Isbnagency.com vs. Bowker Official ISBN Agency:

  • Isbnagency.com: Resells ISBNs from a bulk block owned by “Movement Publishing” at $34.99 per ISBN. You use their ISBN, and their parent company is the publisher of record.
  • Bowker: The official, authoritative source for ISBNs in the U.S. Sells ISBNs directly to authors who become the publisher of record at $125 for a single ISBN, or significantly cheaper per ISBN in blocks e.g., $29.50/ISBN for a block of 10.
  • Key Difference: Ownership. Isbnagency.com offers convenience and a lower upfront price but surrenders your identity as the direct publisher. Bowker empowers you with full ownership and control, which is crucial for long-term professionalism.

• Isbnagency.com vs. KDP Kindle Direct Publishing Platform-Specific Free ISBN:

  Thesparrows.me Review

  • Isbnagency.com: Provides a standalone ISBN from their block that can theoretically be used anywhere.
  • KDP: Offers a free ISBN if you publish exclusively through KDP. This ISBN is proprietary and lists “Amazon KDP” as the publisher. It cannot be used for publishing your book on other platforms e.g., Apple Books, Barnes & Noble.
  • Key Difference: Purpose. Isbnagency.com offers a transferable, albeit indirectly owned, ISBN. KDP offers a free, highly restrictive ISBN designed to keep your book within the Amazon ecosystem. For many, KDP’s free ISBN is sufficient if Amazon is their sole distribution channel.

• Isbnagency.com vs. IngramSpark Global Print-on-Demand & Distribution:

  • Isbnagency.com: Solely provides an ISBN and barcode, with basic marketing advice. Doesn’t offer publishing or distribution services.
  • IngramSpark: A robust print-on-demand and global distribution platform. While they can assign an ISBN for a fee, they strongly recommend and facilitate the use of your own Bowker-purchased ISBN for maximum control and professional standing. They are a distribution service, not an ISBN reseller in the same vein.
  • Key Difference: Service type. Isbnagency.com is an ISBN provider. IngramSpark is a comprehensive distribution channel that requires or highly prefers a properly acquired ISBN. Authors often use a Bowker-purchased ISBN with IngramSpark.

• Isbnagency.com vs. Draft2Digital Aggregator with Free, Flexible ISBNs:

  • Isbnagency.com: Offers a paid, externally sourced ISBN.
  • Draft2Digital: Provides a free ISBN for books distributed through their aggregation service. These D2D-provided ISBNs list “Draft2Digital” as the publisher but allow your book to be distributed widely to multiple ebook retailers.
  • Key Difference: Cost and breadth of service. D2D offers a free ISBN that functions across multiple retailers, along with robust distribution tools, whereas Isbnagency.com charges for an ISBN without the full publishing/distribution platform.

The market for ISBNs and self-publishing support is diverse.

Isbnagency.com carved out a niche by offering a cheap “entry-level” ISBN, primarily targeting authors who prioritize minimal cost over direct ownership or comprehensive publishing tools. Leosonline.com Review

However, for any author looking to truly build a publishing presence, the alternatives, particularly purchasing directly from Bowker and then using platforms like KDP and IngramSpark, offer a more professional, controlled, and scalable approach.

The initial savings from Isbnagency.com are often quickly offset by the limitations in ownership and the better long-term value provided by direct Bowker purchases or the free ISBNs offered by major publishing platforms that come with distribution services.

The Long-Term Implications of Not Owning Your ISBN Directly

While the immediate allure of Isbnagency.com’s low-cost ISBN is understandable, it’s crucial for authors to consider the long-term implications of not directly owning their International Standard Book Number. An ISBN isn’t just a number.

It’s a unique identifier that ties your book to its publisher in the global publishing database.

When you don’t own the ISBN directly, you’re effectively operating under another entity’s publishing umbrella, even if you retain all rights to your content. Secuneige.com Review

• Publisher of Record and Professional Identity:

  • Direct Ownership Bowker: When you purchase an ISBN directly from Bowker, you register your own imprint name as the publisher of record. This means that in all official publishing databases, your company or personal imprint is listed as the entity responsible for the book. This establishes your professional identity and credibility within the industry.
  • Indirect Ownership Isbnagency.com: With Isbnagency.com, “Movement Publishing” is the official publisher of record in the Bowker database. While you can brand your book with your own imprint on the cover and title page, this official backend record remains tied to Movement Publishing.
  • Implication: This discrepancy can create confusion for libraries, bookstores, and other professional partners who consult official databases. It might also hinder future opportunities if a traditional publisher or literary agent researches your work and sees a third-party listed as the publisher, which could imply a lack of full autonomy or control over your publishing operations.

• Metadata Control and Management:

  • Direct Ownership Bowker: Bowker’s MyIdentifiers platform allows you to directly manage your ISBNs and associated metadata title, author, format, publication date, description, etc.. This gives you immediate and complete control over how your book’s information appears in the global publishing ecosystem.
  • Indirect Ownership Isbnagency.com: You do not have direct access to manage the metadata associated with an ISBN from Isbnagency.com in the Bowker system. While you control the metadata you upload to distributors like Amazon or IngramSpark, the foundational ISBN record is managed by “Movement Publishing.” Any corrections or updates to the core ISBN data would theoretically need to go through Isbnagency.com/Movement Publishing.
  • Implication: This adds an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy and potential delay in managing your book’s most fundamental identifying information.

• Future Publishing Ventures and Scalability:

  

  • Direct Ownership Bowker Blocks: If you plan to write more than one book, purchasing a block of ISBNs e.g., 10 or 100 from Bowker is significantly more cost-effective per ISBN and provides complete flexibility. All books published under your own block will consistently show your imprint as the publisher.
  • Indirect Ownership Isbnagency.com: Each book would require another purchase from Isbnagency.com, continually tying your growing catalog to “Movement Publishing.” This lacks scalability and consistency for authors building a brand.
  • Implication: This model is fine for a one-off project where professional longevity isn’t a concern, but it quickly becomes cumbersome and less professional for authors with ambitions for a multi-title career.

• Resale and Subsidiary Rights: Aiminex.com Review

  • While Isbnagency.com states you retain all rights and royalties to your work, the official publisher of record can sometimes play a subtle role in complex rights negotiations e.g., foreign rights, film rights, especially if questions arise about the initial publishing entity. Having a clear, direct publisher identity simplifies these processes.
  • Implication: While not a direct barrier, it’s an additional consideration that could add minor complexities in advanced publishing scenarios.

In essence, using a reseller like Isbnagency.com prioritizes immediate cost savings over the establishment of a robust, independent publishing identity.

For authors viewing self-publishing as a serious business or long-term career, the investment in direct ISBN ownership from Bowker is a strategic move that pays dividends in control, professionalism, and simplified management over the life of their literary works.

The “cheap” ISBN can, paradoxically, come with a higher long-term cost in terms of autonomy and professional standing.

FAQ

What is Isbnagency.com?

Isbnagency.com is a website that offers ISBNs International Standard Book Numbers and barcodes to self-publishing authors at a discounted rate, primarily sourcing these ISBNs through bulk purchases made by “Movement Publishing” from Bowker.

Is Isbnagency.com legitimate?

Yes, Isbnagency.com appears to be a legitimate service in that they do provide a working ISBN and barcode. Quote2insure.com Review

However, it’s crucial to understand that the ISBN will be registered under “Movement Publishing” as the publisher of record, not directly under your own name or imprint.

What is the primary drawback of using Isbnagency.com?

The primary drawback is the lack of direct ownership of the ISBN.

The ISBN you receive is part of a block purchased by “Movement Publishing,” meaning they are listed as the official publisher of record with Bowker, not you.

Can I use my own publisher name on my book if I buy an ISBN from Isbnagency.com?

Yes, Isbnagency.com states that you are free to use your own publisher name on your actual book, marketing materials, and anywhere else outward-facing.

However, the official ISBN database record with Bowker will still show “Movement Publishing” as the publisher. Loops-ice.com Review

How much does an ISBN from Isbnagency.com cost?

An ISBN from Isbnagency.com costs $34.99, which includes a free print-ready ISBN barcode.

Is the fee for Isbnagency.com a one-time payment?

Yes, Isbnagency.com explicitly states that it is a one-time fee with no additional or recurring charges.

Does Isbnagency.com provide barcodes?

Yes, every ISBN publishing package from Isbnagency.com includes a free print-ready ISBN barcode in ISBN 13 format.

What else is included with an Isbnagency.com package?

Besides the ISBN and barcode, packages typically include a free web page for marketing your book on their site and useful information on getting your book listed on major online retailers like Amazon and iBooks.

How does Isbnagency.com compare to buying an ISBN directly from Bowker?

Buying directly from Bowker means you own the ISBN and register your own imprint as the publisher of record, providing full control and professional credibility.

Bowker charges $125 for a single ISBN but offers significant discounts for blocks e.g., 10 ISBNs for $295. Isbnagency.com is cheaper for a single ISBN but means you don’t directly own the ISBN as the publisher.

Can I get a refund from Isbnagency.com?

Yes, Isbnagency.com offers a 30-day full refund policy if you are not satisfied for any reason.

You would need to email Michael at the provided contact address.

Are the ISBNs from Isbnagency.com usable internationally?

Yes, the ISBN is an international number and can be used worldwide, including in the USA and UK, regardless of where it was acquired.

Why do self-publishers use Isbnagency.com despite the ownership issue?

Self-publishers often choose Isbnagency.com for its significantly lower upfront cost compared to purchasing a single ISBN directly from Bowker, especially if they are publishing only one book and are not concerned about establishing a formal publisher imprint.

What is “Movement Publishing” in relation to Isbnagency.com?

“Movement Publishing” is the entity that has purchased ISBNs in bulk from Bowker, and Isbnagency.com sells individual ISBNs from this block.

“Movement Publishing” is therefore the official publisher of record for the ISBNs provided by Isbnagency.com.

Can I manage my ISBN and metadata through Isbnagency.com’s service?

You do not have direct access to manage the ISBN or its metadata in the official Bowker database when using an ISBN from Isbnagency.com.

This management remains with “Movement Publishing.”

Is Isbnagency.com suitable for authors planning to publish multiple books?

Generally, no.

For authors planning to publish multiple books, it is far more cost-effective and professionally advantageous to purchase a block of ISBNs directly from Bowker, as this grants direct ownership and consistency for all future titles under your own imprint.

Does Isbnagency.com help with book distribution?

Isbnagency.com provides “useful information on getting your product listed on Amazon, iBooks, B&N, etc.,” but it does not offer direct book distribution services itself.

You would need to use separate platforms like KDP or IngramSpark for distribution.

How quickly do I receive my ISBN from Isbnagency.com?

Isbnagency.com states that every order is “instantly sent by email so you can get instant access to your ISBN barcode.”

Is there a free alternative to Isbnagency.com for ISBNs?

Yes, platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing KDP and Draft2Digital offer free ISBNs for books published and distributed exclusively through their respective platforms.

However, these free ISBNs come with specific usage restrictions.

What is the benefit of directly owning an ISBN from Bowker?

The primary benefit is full control and professional legitimacy.

Your own imprint is listed as the publisher of record, which is crucial for library sales, major distribution channels, and establishing a consistent, professional brand for your publishing endeavors.

Does Isbnagency.com use cookies?

Yes, Isbnagency.com explicitly states, “This site uses cookies to provide the best experience.

By using this site you agree to its use of cookies.” They also provide a “More Info” link about their cookie policy.