Planning a full-service relocation, but want to take some of the sting out of the final bill? Here are some easy-for-you tips that will help keep the estimate accurate.

Move mid-month. Moving companies do a lot of their business at the beginning and end of the month, you can usually find great deals and availability in the middle of the month.

By planning ahead for a middle-of-the-month relocation, you can save money and be able to book the company you want on the day you want.

Pack things yourself. Anything you can pack, do. But beware that anything you pack on your own is on you if it breaks during the relocation process. A good rule of thumb is to take to the internet and learn to pack anything sturdy or soft. There are sites that give clear directions on how to pack books, clothing, CDs and bedding. All of the breakables--glass anything, dishes, pottery and expensive electronics--the moving company can take care of.

For furniture, the driver will walk though the house and make note of all damage before moving starts. Walk with him/her and make sure you agree with what is going on the inventory.

Check your insurance. Your moving company can provide four coverage types at various prices: basic, covering 60 cents per pound; added value; market or depreciated value; and replacement value.

But then, there are some things that are not insurable by any moving company, including jewelry, coins, stamps and important personal documents. These items should be taken with you to the new home.

You can also contact your insurance company to see if your current policy covers moving; you can usually buy additional coverage through them as well.

Make it easy. Anything stored in a crawl space, attic or basement should be moved to a place that has easy access for the movers, such as a garage. Any crawling around and getting dirty the movers need to do, you’ll pay for.

Break out the screwdriver. Disassembly and reassembly of desks, entertainment centers and beds are major time burners, which can cost you big. If you are able, go ahead and do the job on both ends, it will save you a bundle.

Use professional moving boxes. Spend a little money to buy professional moving boxes and not only will more boxes fit in the truck, but they will fit easier and better, saving on loading time and breakage. How? Professional boxes are designed to fit into a moving truck like a jigsaw puzzle, with no gaps that can cause things to shift; the boxes from the supermarket are not.

Haul anything easy yourself. Clothing and knickknacks are things that can come in the car (or, if using auto shipping, on the plane) with you along with the expensive items and important documents. Not only will you save some money, but you will know exactly where these things are on the other end.

Give good directions. Not everyone has GPS, so be sure to have clear, concise directions to the new place for the movers. It is your responsibility to make sure the driver knows where he/she is going because if the truck gets lost on the way, you will most likely end up footing the bill for the extra travel time.