I am going alone yes - I'm not planning to move any furniture at all, I just don't think 8 standard 50x40x30 boxes is very much? I planned to take for instance: kitchen stuff, bedding, small lamps, photo frames etc... I don't have a huge amount of stuff to be honest, but it's probably more than 8 boxes worth.
I am totally on board with having to pay the relocation costs back if I leave before 2 years - I'm not arguing that concept. It's just not ideal if I'm expected to pay back $3000 for shipping that actually should only cost $1000 and $4000 for accommodation that should only cost half that... etc
Agree with what Chortlepuss says about it being a warning sign on the employer but I'm giving them the benefit of the doubt as I was recommended the job by a friend who works there and says its a great place to work.