If you’re looking to send a watch to a friend, family member, customer, or buyer, you need to keep in mind some guidelines before placing your timepiece in the mail.

First, if you are in the United States, consider shipping your watch through US Postal Service Express Mail. This might be a little more expensive, but your package will be taken care of and not thrown or jostled around.

After you’ve chosen a shipping method, begin by wrapping the watch in a soft cloth—these can be bought just about anywhere. This will protect the bracelet and case back. Next, place the watch in a zip lock bag to prevent water damage. To further cushion your timepiece, wrap it in an extra layer of bubble wrap before shipping.

For optimum protection, most seasoned watch shippers add even one more layer: an acrylic box that fits in your cardboard mailing box. Put your watch in the acrylic box, then tape it shut, surrounding it inside the cardboard box with a light layer of Styrofoam peanuts to keep the two boxes from banging together.

Congratulations, you’re watch is ready to be shipped!