The BIG pack

We used a relocation company to pack up and complete the necessary customs documentation. Generally really pleased with them but some items that should've been packed weren't and some items that we asked not to be got packed were:

Please don't pack: our toothbrushes and daily toiletries or the strollers - They all got packed.
Do pack the 6 bottles of Prosecco that I declared on the customs form - didn't get packed
Do pack the whole kitchen - 1 tall kitchen cupboard (including the toaster which my dear friend scrubbed with a toothbrush to get the crumbs out of) - didn't get packed.

My tips:
* Let the neighbours know whats happening
* However good the packers are - label whats not to go
* Be prepared for the locust like speed of packers
* Packers work better with offers of tea/coffee
* Rely on friends to take kids
* Empty washing machine & dish washer
* Try to keep everything in the rooms they belong in - will help with the unpacking
* Accept offers of food and help with any pre-packing you can do and post packing clean
* You may need to borrow hoover and cleaning products
* Clear out recycling and charity donations as you go
* Prepare to be overwhelmed by your mixed emotions
* Consider making life easier at the airport by pre-booking porters
* If visiting multi-cities consider the airport left luggage
* Review your suitcase packing and always try and take some things out
* Keep originals of official documents with you, plus copies
* Try and store your suitcases/handluggage/handbag at a friends so there is no chance of them being packed
* Know that you will run out of time to do everything you want
* A month before make a note of all the things you use daily/weekly/monthly to help with your packing - depending on how long it will take for you to be reunited with all your possessions