Book and report formatting service

Self-published authors, small publishers, consultants, not-for-profits and businesses with long documents to produce.

Package prices per book or report, based on page count and complexity, with add-ons such as cover templates, indexes and e-book conversion.

• Layout software such as InDesign or Affinity Publisher
• Knowledge of print and e-book file requirements
• Attention to detail
• Working to deadlines with clients online

• Check you are not responsible for the copyright of client content, and state this in your terms
• Consider professional indemnity insurance in case of costly print errors
• Get written sign-off on proofs before files go to print
• Make sure fonts and images are licensed for commercial publishing
• Register for GST once you reach the threshold, and check with the ATO or an accountant

Startup costs are typically around $400 to $2,000, depending on your layout software, fonts, image licences and website. This is an estimate, so check which tools you already have before you spend.

Monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $3,000, depending on how many books and reports you format and what you charge. These are estimates only, and revenue is before software, tax and other costs.

Check that you are not responsible for the copyright of client content and state this in your terms. Consider professional indemnity insurance, get written sign-off on proofs, license fonts and images commercially, and check GST registration with the ATO or an accountant.