A bond head for thermal compression die bonding comprises a collet operative to support a die on a first side of the collet during die bonding and a bond head heater located on a second side of the collet opposite to the first side for heating the collet and the die. A die vacuum suction hole on the bond head heater applies a vacuum suction force to hold the collet, and a collet vacuum suction hole on the bond head heater applies a vacuum suction force to hold the die. At least one vacuum distribution channel that is formed on the second side of the collet is in fluid communication with the collet vacuum suction hole and distributes the vacuum suction force across a surface of the second side of the collet for securing the collet.