Which shipping method is typically the most cost-effective for sending books?

The most cost-effective method for sending books is Media Mail. This option is specifically designed for shipping educational materials, including books, manuscripts, and sound recordings, at a reduced rate. Media Mail is typically much cheaper than other methods because it prioritizes affordable shipping for educational and informational contents; it has limitations that contribute to the lower cost, such as slower delivery times compared to faster services.

In contrast, other shipping methods like Priority Mail and Express Mail are more expensive due to their quicker delivery times and added services, making them less suitable for cost-sensitive shipments of books. First-Class Mail, while relatively affordable, does not offer the same level of cost savings as Media Mail specifically for books and educational materials, as it is primarily intended for letters and small parcels rather than larger media shipments. Hence, Media Mail stands out as the best option for sending books economically.