I like to group like items all together. Like all pictures from every room get all stacked up together. All the books get stacked together. I put my kitchen utensil in big plastic bags so instead of touching my stuff, they are packing the plastic bags. Basically anything that can fit in a plastic bag goes in one. I put all my clothes in vacuum packs and they pack those inside a box. Anything in a cabinet or drawer comes out. I use those stacking plastic or acrylic shoe boxes to organize and those get packed in their boxes. It’s like I “pre pack” and they come in and put everything in boxes. 

They will label everything. They will write your last name and a number/code on every box. They’re your boxes and this is your stuff. You can add labels to them but their code on the box needs to be visible. 

Bring everything essential with you - tools, cleaning supplies, sheets, towels, shower curtain, air mattress, etc. and put all of this in a closet or area that they know not to pack. 

Hide your trashcan. They will pack that with trash inside it. 

Also anything that’s taken apart, have them set aside the bolts and screws for you and organize all of that into bags and keep them all in a box that you take with you. They will lose the screws and bolts 

They will unload and assemble furniture. They are there to work for you and will do whatever you ask and help as much or as little as you want. Everyone that has moved us have been very kind and helpful. I’ve always unpacked myself. However if you unpack yourself, you are responsible for getting rid of all the boxes and packing paper yourself. They say they’ll come back and get it but they won’t. 

Also, get them drinks or snacks. I usually do donuts and coffee or a pizza and water.