You can NEVER start too early to start packing. I used Xerox boxes that I have collected over the years since they are easy to stack being the same size. I don't know who my friend called but they were awful. I think it said College students of which they weren't. Broke numerous drawers in both the chest and dresser which still haven't been fixed.
I would rent a storage unit near where you will be living and start to move all the small items into storage. That is what I had planned but since my friend was paying for the move, I agreed yo what he wanted done. Should have, could have but didn't!!
Label every box with what is in it, what room it is going and number each box and be SURE to write ALL THAT information in a notebook. Time to start purging. Good Luck.