What is an ISBN?  

ISBN, which stands for International Standard Book Number, is a unique 13-digit numeric identifier for books, much like an ID number. Just as your ID Number is unique to you, even though you may share the same name with someone else, so too is an ISBN unique to a particular book.

An ISBN is assigned to each edition and format of a particular book. This means that different formats of the same title (e.g. ebook (PDF), ebook (ePub), ebook (Kindle), softcover, hardcover) will each need their own ISBN number. And a revised edition of a book will need a different ISBN to the previous edition.

A different ISBN is not required when you are simply reprinting a book.

Do I need an ISBN?

If your book is to be sold through the usual channels of distribution, such as bookstores, online stores, libraries, and distribution warehouses, you will need an ISBN. You will also be required, by law, to submit one copy of your book to each of the five Legal Depositories (national libraries) once it has been printed. eBooks must also be submitted to the five Legal Depositories - these can be supplied in digital format, on a disk.

If you intend printing and distributing your book privately, or publishing for personal or internal use within an organisation, then an ISBN is NOT required. 

Do magazines use an ISBN too?

No. Magazines, or any publication that is serial in nature (has different issues), will have an ISSN (International Standard Serial Number). For ISSN applications, click here.

Where can I obtain an ISBN for my book?

You can take advantage of our hassle-free 24-48 hour* service by applying for your ISBN through us.

Please note that when we order the ISBN on your behalf YOU will be listed as the publisher and the ISBN will always be linked to you. This is important as you will retain full rights to that number and will be able to reprint and sell your book anywhere you like without having to change the ISBN. Beware: certain service providers do not do this and the ISBN remains listed under their name - in other words, your title will always be linked to them.

To order an ISBN, simply complete and submit the downloadable application form below and your ISBN will be emailed to you.

• The ISBN application service is for South African publishers and self-publishing authors only. Publishers in other countries must apply within their own country of operation.
  
• We do NOT supply EAN numbers (EAN numbers are used on all other retail products except books and serial publications) but we CAN generate a 13-digit GTIN barcode once you have your EAN/13-digit GTIN number. EAN/13-digit GTIN numbers are available from the South African issuing body, GS1 (once on the site, click on Bar Codes).
  

*Please note that while ISBNs are usually returned to us within the stipulated 24-48 hour period, we have no control over the issuing body and cannot be held liable for any delays on their side. We therefore advise you not to leave your application until the last minute. Seasonal holidays may also delay turnaround time. If such holidays apply, they will be advertised at the top of this web page.

How much does an ISBN cost and how do I pay?

Our charge for this service is R250 incl. VAT.

You can pay in two different ways.

• Manual payments – Internet Banking (EFT) and Direct Deposit (fax or email proof of payment along with your application form – contact details are on the form).
• Online payments – Instant EFT (ABSA, Nedbank, FNB, Standard), Credit Card and Ukash voucher (forward us your completed ISBN/Barcode Application form and click on one of the options below to complete your payment online).

ISBN only @ R250, click here

ISBN/Barcode Combo @ R500, click here.

Regardless of your payment method, you MUST complete the ISBN/Barcode application form and forward it to us so that we can complete your order. Our contact details are on the form.

ISBN/Barcode application form

(Word doc) / (PDF)

What is a barcode?

A barcode is an optical representation of data (usually in the form of lines) that can be read by a scanner at point of sale. Almost every retail product has a barcode on it, including books and magazines. Scanning of barcodes allows for quick retrieval of the product's important information such as name, product code and price and helps the distribution chain with effective management of that product and point of sale transactions. A barcode is always generated from a number, such as an ISBN, ISSN, EAN/GTIN, etc.

Do I need one?

If you intend selling your book through the usual channels of distribution such as bookstores, online stores, libraries and distribution warehouses, your book will need a barcode. A barcode can only be generated once you have an ISBN number.

If you intend bypassing the distribution chain by selling your book privately OR through online stores where no physical scanning of the product is necessary, then a barcode is not necessary.

Ordering a barcode

Once you have an ISBN number, you can order your barcode here. If you don't already have an ISBN, you can order both items together.

Your barcode will be emailed to you within 1 to 2 working days from the date of application and proof of payment (except when ordering the ISBN and Barcode together, in which case you should allow 2 to 4 working days). Seasonal holidays may also delay turnaround time. If such holidays apply, they will be advertised at the top of this web page.

We can supply a barcode to anyone with an ISBN number, regardless of country of operation or origin.

How much does a barcode cost?

Our charge for this service is R250 incl. VAT.

You can pay in two different ways.

• Manual payments – Internet Banking (EFT) and Direct Deposit (fax or email proof of payment along with your application form – contact details are on the form).
• Online payments – Instant EFT (ABSA, Nedbank, FNB, Standard), Credit Card and Ukash voucher (forward your completed ISBN/Barcode Application form and click on one of the options below to complete your payment online).

Barcode only @ R250 (All Authors/Publishers), click here.

ISBN/Barcode Combo @ R500 (South African Authors/Publishers ONLY), click here.

Please note that, regardless of your payment method, you MUST complete the ISBN/Barcode application form and forward that to us as well in order for us to complete your order. Our contact details are on the form.

ISBN/Barcode application form

(Word doc) / (PDF)