Why won't my book or file upload?

Uploads usually fail from an unsupported format, an oversized file, a flaky connection, or placeholder text. Here's how to diagnose and fix each.

Last updated 2026-06-15

If a file will not upload, it is almost always one of a few things. Work through these.

1. Format

Use a supported manuscript format — DOCX, DOC, RTF, ODT, TXT, PDF, or EPUB. Audiobooks use MP3/M4A. Other formats are rejected.

2. File size / connection

Very large files (especially audiobooks) can stall on a weak connection. Try a wired connection, a different network, or upload chapters individually for audio.

3. Placeholder text

If the upload is rejected for template/placeholder text (lorem ipsum, KDP boilerplate), clean the manuscript and re-upload — see why was my book blocked.

4. Broken EPUB

A malformed EPUB can fail. The fix that works almost every time: upload your DOCX and let Chiify build a clean EPUB — see common EPUB upload errors.

5. Browser

Try another browser or an incognito window; disable script-blocking extensions.

Still stuck? Open a ticket and tell us the file type, size, and the exact error.

Still need help? Open a ticket from your dashboard or email [email protected] — a real person replies.

Common EPUB upload errors and how to fix them

Most EPUB upload errors are easy fixes: invalid markup, missing navigation, bad cover references, or remote resources. Here's how to clear the common ones.

Cover upload errors: too large, wrong format, or not found

Fix the common cover errors: image too small/large, wrong format, or 'embedded cover not found'. Use JPG/PNG at 1600x2560 and let Chiify inject it.

My book is stuck in review — what should I do?

Most reviews finish in 24–48 hours. If yours is longer, check for a block, confirm files are valid, and contact support. Here's the checklist.

Fixing font and non-standard font errors in your EPUB

Font errors come from non-standard or non-embedded fonts. Embed standard fonts (or rebuild from DOCX) so text displays everywhere. Here's how.

Right-to-left and reverse-binding books (Arabic, Hebrew, manga)

For Arabic, Hebrew, or manga, set the language and reading direction so pages bind and turn correctly. Here's how to handle RTL and reverse binding.

What paperback trim sizes are available?

Common paperback trims include 5x8, 5.25x8, 5.5x8.5, and 6x9. Pick the standard size for your genre. Here's how to choose and why it matters.

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