I've been fortunate enough to have both of my cross country moves funded by someone other than me... I've watched two sets of professional packers pack all my belongings and I've managed to learn a few things ... lots of small boxes are easier to manage. And if they happen to be standard same sized boxes they fit into a trailer or moving truck much easier. I also learned that they don't believe in bubble wrap but rather LOTS of packing (non printed newspaper in large sheets) paper. They crumple up a few sheets in the bottom of a box and then fill it and put a few more crumpled sheets on the top before sealing it. And they go through a TON of it when packing up a kitchen. It will cost a little, but I found it to be worthwhile when I did a move on my own in the middle of the two professional moves to acquire a large collection of true moving boxes, and packing paper. The little bit of expense is well worth it. Look up "moving boxes" on the web and you might be shocked at how cheaply you can buy boxes.

Being organized and having a plan goes a long way. Because I've had other people packing my things I haven't had the luxury of purging as I packed. Rather I took the time to go through all the closets before hand and "organize" them, throwing things or donating them as I go. Then when you go back to pack it's already organized and you can just fill boxes.

It's damn stressful! I thought this move would be a breeze since I made a similar move three years prior and I had experience on my side. The small things still build up and drive you to the edge of insanity until you reach the calm right before the move and realize that everything is complete.

And Steph is absolutely correct about the kitchen... I haven't cooked in at least three months... partially because my house was in a state of renovation, and then afterward it was being shown and I didn't want any "offensive" food smells, then I moved out and am in a temporary living situation. Stop shopping and use up all the food you can. Frozen and refrigerated food doesn't travel well. And opened food is a disaster waiting to happen.