definately do as you're doing! With foodstuffs, no problem at all in packing what you won't be using. I always pack the whole box, I usually pop cushions or pillows, towels, linen in the top for padding. If you're packing candles, I suggest using a totally seperate box (shoebox is good) so you won't get wax over everything. And if you've any printer paper, notepaper etc, write what's on each box on that (but twice) and keep one copy in a folder separate to the box with a box number reference. And write the number on the box on 3 sides, and tape the list on the side or top of the box. That way if you particularly want something, you can look up your list in the folder (or computer if you want) and go to that box only instead of moving boxes around to find the list on each box.

Good luck!!!!