On the outside of the boxes write the main contents and the room they belong in. As you pack each box, make a more detailed list and put it inside the box, on the top. This is especially useful if you've included small items that don't necessarily belong, to fill small spaces that would otherwise be wasted. That way, if for example you need something unexpectedly, or your dear auntie who gave you that lovely whatyoucallit decides to visit, you'll only have to open the boxes and check the detailed list, without having to rummage through every box to put the item on display!
Put things you'll need in the first couple of days, e.g. clean clothes, towel, toiletries, any medication etc, in a suitcase as tho you were going away for a weekend. hopefully you'll have got more organised by the time the suitcase stuff is used. Alternatively, pack clothes in outfits rather than all tshirts together, all trousers together (can't find the underwear box!!!).
Always take valuables with you personally, don't put them in the removal van.