Softcover, Hardcover & Spiral Book Printing

What is Short Run Book Printing?

Short run book printing is a method of printing books that exists somewhere between print-on-demand and offset printing. It gets its name from the size of its typical print runs, which are "shorter" (meaning fewer in quantity) than traditional, offset print runs.

Our short run book printing process consists of sheet-fed, toner-based printers. Our optimum print runs are between 25 and 5000 books per order. We utilize state-of-the-art Canon Digital Presses that print at speeds of 177 pages per minute.

What is Offset Printing?

Compared to short run book printers, offset printers typically print on larger sheets of paper at considerably faster speeds. However, this process takes longer to set up and requires additional steps during the binding stage. With these additional requirements, offset printing only becomes efficient when printing roughly 5,000 or more books.

What are the Advantages of Short Run Printing Over Offset Printing?

As mentioned, with offset printing the price per book does not become price effective without ordering a larger press run. Having your money tied up in book inventory can be problematic, not to mention the additional storage space needed.

Short run printing allows you to be more flexible with your print run size because it stays cost-effective at lower quantities. Reprinting your book is also faster because there is less setup involved than offset printing.

What is Print-On-Demand?

Print-on-demand (POD) is a relatively new method of book printing. Until someone buys the book, it is not actually printed. When a print-on-demand book is purchased, a series of automated procedures are set into motion. Once printed, the book is shipped directly to the customer. The entire process is highly automated, requiring little to no intervention by a human to complete.

What are the Advantages of Short Run Printing Over Print-On-Demand?

Print-on-demand incorporates both printing and distribution, making it practical for authors who do not want to handle shipping. However, when comparing the price per book, printing one book at a time is more expensive than doing a full print run.

Short run printing allows for more quality checks and better color control during production. Short run printing also opens the door for more customization options, such as binding selections, book sizes, and paper stocks.

Which Printing Method is Right for You?

When comparing these three very different approaches to book printing, short run printing is a great option if you plan on printing between 25 and 5,000 books. If your initial print run requires many thousands of books, offset printing may be a more cost-effective approach. Some authors will opt to use a print-on-demand approach as it provides for a low budget means to distribute your book.

If you need at least 25 or more books, I encourage you to get a quote using Gorham Printing's Get a Price Tool. With great service and a huge range of customization options, we've got what you need to print your perfect book.