An ISBN, International Standard Book Number, is a unique identifier used by booksellers, distributors, libraries, and POD printers to track and manage book titles. An ISBN is required if you plan to sell a book commercially through retailers such as Amazon, IngramSpark, or bookstores.

Book scanning does not require an ISBN. ISBNs are only needed at the publishing and distribution stage. Scanning can be completed first, allowing you to decide later how and where the book will be published.

Bowker ISBNs give you full control over publisher name, imprint, and metadata. Platform-provided ISBNs are free but restrict distribution and list the platform as the publisher. Authors planning multiple editions or wide distribution typically purchase their own ISBNs

Yes, if you own the ISBN. A single ISBN can be used across multiple distribution platforms as long as the book metadata matches. Free platform ISBNs cannot be reused outside that platform.

Digital Scanning does not sell ISBNs or submit metadata. Clients are responsible for ISBN registration, metadata setup, and publisher records through Bowker or their chosen POD platform.

ISBNs are not required to begin scanning. Most clients purchase ISBNs after scanning is complete, once final trim size, page count, and edition type are confirmed.