Nearly 40 million Americans move each year. If you are planning a move, it makes sense to avoid mistakes that can cost you money and time, and raise the stress level of the entire family. 

Overspending and inadequate research are the two most common mistakes when moving to a new home, according to USAA and author Sandee Payne, who as a military spouse, has moved all over the world seven times in the first 10 years of her marriage, at times on her own and with children while her husband was deployed. Payne has learned many important lessons. Here are her seven most common mistakes families make when they move:

Spending beyond your budget.  

Be aware of the hidden costs when buying a home. Consider the financial obligations beyond a mortgage that add to the cost of homeownership, including: city taxes, utilities, insurance, and maintenance - not to mention the length of a commute, given the fluctuations in gas prices. And remember updating expenses such as granite counter tops, plantation shutters, or a pool or spa.

Not researching your new community.
Use the Internet to research real estate listings and to learn about your new home, city, local amenities, school ratings, crime rates and children's activities. Talk to parents in the community who can provide firsthand insight on the topics that are most important to you. Make sure to understand your neighborhood by day and by night before moving in.

Lacking a household inventory.
Use photos, video or a notebook to document valuable items. This will help you file a claim if an item is lost or damaged. Store them in a moving file or on a thumb drive.

Not watching how boxes are organized.
One of the most common mistakes when moving to a new home is placing large items, like lawn equipment, next to boxes containing valuables in the moving truck. Keep a watchful eye on those packing for you if using a moving company.

Moving all belongings.
Not everything has to go with you. Pack suitcases and storage bins as if you're going on a short vacation. Include essentials for the first few days in your new home. And take the time to separate items into sections of keep, sell, donate or discard before you pack.

Dismantling your electronic equipment without labeling wires.
Take photos of the connections, and place the wires in a single box. Knowing how to reinstall your kids' computer games can be a lifesaver.

Not keeping important documents with you.
Hang on to important documents so you can easily re-establish your lifestyle. These are needed at every stage of a move, from making travel arrangements, registering children for school and establishing new physicians using your prior medical records.

"Moving your family can be overwhelming, but technology and timely advice can be the ace up your sleeve," said Payne, who learned that it's about finding a place that fits your family's lifestyle with minimal disruption. It's critical to have online tools and resources you trust, placing you in control of your move."

And according to a recent survey by USAA, 34 percent of consumers agree with Payne. They would prefer to search online for a new place to live, compared with 10 percent who would use newspapers or other printed materials.

About USAA

USAA provides insurance, banking, investment and retirement products and services to 8 million members of the U.S. military and their families. Known for its legendary commitment to its members, USAA is consistently recognized for outstanding service, employee well-being and financial strength. USAA membership is open to all who are serving or have honorably served our nation in the U.S. military - and their families. For more information about USAA, or to learn more about membership, visit usaa.com.