How can I move safely during a pandemic?

Hi @searching71, you'll notice that I moved your message to the COVID-19 group (https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/covid-19/). I did this because I think you'll get more responses here. For example, @gingerw and @sueinmn might have some tips.

I also recommend reading this discussion about traveling to Mayo Clinic. While it isn't about moving specifically, many of the tips while traveling across states may apply to your situation:
- Tips: Traveling to Mayo to get medical care safely during COVID-19 https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/your-tips-traveling-and-getting-medical-care-safely-during-covid-19/

Thanks for your help!

@searching71 Hello, we recently made our seasonal migration cross country, and you can read about the precautions we took in the discussion link Colleen provided.
Beyond that, if you have not done it already, I would immediately make contact with a reputable relocation specialist in the area to which you are moving for help in securing housing. Your new employer may be able to help you find such a person. This is especially important right now because a lot of property rentals are being done remotely through internet-only contacts, and there are reports of scammers renting or leasing properties online that they have no right to handle, and renters showing up to find someone else in residence and their money gone. You can also arrange through the relocation specialist for a personal shopper to stock your new home with groceries and essentials so you don't have to immediately go out shopping on arrival. Also, take care in choosing who will move your possessions - do not rely on online estimates, but rather put on a mask & get an in-person estimate from a mover who will also wear one. When it is time for packing, will you do it or hire someone?
Good luck in your new job
Sue

Thank you! A great thing about my new position is that it is a live in role that provides room and board. So, for the first time in many years, I am moving without having to worry about renting a house or all the related challenges and there will be groceries there when I arrive. It is sounding great!

@searching71 Congratulations on your new job! Definitely exciting times, and perhaps anxiety producing, also. Contact the local chamber of commerce for some info on what the new area has to offer. If you can get your friend to help with driving your car, do so. Take your time on the trip, stop as needed, see the country! Make it like a vacation but going to a new home, not returning to where you are currently. Will you be able to take much-loved possessions with you, and if so, how? Check for health care and banking options now. Get to know your new employers as much as possible before the move. As this is a live-in position, are you prepared mentally if there is a problem and the situation doesn't work out? We're rooting for you!
Ginger

Sadly, I just learned this afternoon that my potential employer was made aware today by the Dept. of Disability Services of additional accommodations that they'd need to provide if they were to hire me that they can't do. Namely, they'd have to hire two additional staff. They're a small organization and can't afford to pay three people to do a job of one person. They withdrew the offer, so my move is canceled for now. I do have another interview coming up though. So, this may all still prove to be helpful. The other potential employer also knows about my epilepsy and seems to have systems in place that might make it more doable.

Very sorry to hear this 🙁 Hoping the situation turns out as best it can for you. Keep your head high!

@searching71 The right-for-you situation will present itself. Good to have found this out now, isn't it? But it has also allowed you to think outside of what is right in front of you, and opened your eyes to the possibilities! Good luck!
Ginger

Thinking of you and hoping you will find something even better than anticipated. We are pulling for you. 🍀🌼🌸💐🌻

thanks!