Do you already have many places where you know you can sell hundreds of copies of your book directly to your readers (a speaking engagement, for example)? (wiseinkblog.com)
I certainly agree that having hundreds of copies per firm is wasteful. (slaw.ca)
Often, you the author will be required to buy hundreds of copies of your own books, which you must then find a way to sell. (madgeniusclub.com)