Right now, the only audiobook distributor that allows you to set a preorder and/or release date is ACX (and then, only if you're exclusive with ACX.)

 

To set a release date, you'll need to have the master audiobook files ready at least two weeks (10 business days) prior to the desired release date. Setting a preorder adds an additional two weeks, so you'll need to plan to upload your files one month prior to the release date.

​

Either way, you need to claim your book on ACX and then email the request at least one week prior to the day you plan to upload your final audio files. If you don't hear back within a day or two, I recommend emailing again until you get a response. You must have the confirmation before you upload the files. You don't have to have the audiobook to make the request; you just have to know the date the masters will be ready to upload.

​

Here's an example schedule for a preorder:

​

January 1 :  email ACX with request for preorder date of January 21 and release date of February 7. Follow up until you get a response.

January 7:   Upload final audio files to ACX

January 21:  Audiobook is on preorder and you now have a buy link and access to the first 50 (of 100 total) promo download codes (half UK, half US listeners)

February 7:  Book is live, preorders are delivered and download codes can be used by reviewers.

​

Here's an example schedule for a release date only:

​

January 1 :  email ACX with request for release date of January 21. Follow up until you get a response.

January 7:   Upload final audio files to ACX

January 21:  Book is live, you now have a buy link and access to  the first 50 (of 100 total) promo download codes (half UK, half US listeners).

​

To make a preorder and/or release date request email the following to support@acx.com:

Book ASIN

Audiobook Title view link (from ACX dashboard)

Pre-order date: Month/Day/ Year (if applicable)

Release date:  Month/Day/ Year

 

Here's a link to the ACX page with this information: https://help.acx.com/s/article/can-i-set-a-pre-order-date-for-my-audiobook-release

​

If you are releasing wide and are set up to sell books on your website, that's the only other option (to date, that I'm aware of) that would allow you to set a preorder and/or release date.

 

You can set a "release date" when you upload a book to Findaway voices, however this just means the date that the book is released to distributors. It can still take 10 - 30 working days for your audiobook to go live on their various distribution partners. Author's Republic recommends 10 - 60 working days.