You’re moving, and the big day is fast approaching. It’s time for you to pack your belongings into boxes, a critical step in the moving process. Don’t make the mistake of casually throwing things in, with no plan for how your box is packed.

Take the time, learn the art form, and properly pack your boxes. These simple tips should guide you through the packing process and ensure that your belongings make it to their new home safe and sound.

Proper supplies can make all the difference. Cardboard boxes, tape, and packing paper are the three standard ingredients in proper packing. Boxes can be acquired through many channels, with the most common being your local grocery chain, which should give you any spares they have lying around.

Make sure these boxes have all four flaps intact, on top and bottom, and that they do not have any tears. Tape can be purchased almost anywhere, as can packing paper. Often newspaper is substituted in as packing paper, which is a great frugal choice, except you must be careful because the ink from the paper can leak onto your belongings and stain them permanently.

Beyond the three big supplies, packing slips, packing peanuts, and bubble wrap, can also be quite helpful. Packing slips allow you to easily organize dishware and other household items, while packing peanuts and bubble wrap add extra protection to everything being shipped.

The secret to properly packing a box is filling the space. You must ensure that all of your belongings are snugly fitted into the box, with literally no room for any movement. Casually tossing things into a box may work short term, but it will leave you with destroyed property by the end of your move.

Wrap your items up in packing paper, and then put the heaviest things at the bottom of your box, atop a layer of packing paper padding. Plate lighter things on top of the heavier stuff, and then add another layer of packing paper padding to the top of your box.

Fill all gaps between objects with as much packing paper as possible. When your box is fully packed, you should be able to ruffle it without seeing any movement from the objects within. Seal up your box with three pieces of tape and it is good to go. A properly packed box will be twice as sturdy as an improperly packed box. Properly packing a box will make your move more efficient and stress free.