In the vast universe of Starfield, players can find themselves in possession of items that aren’t exactly legal. Knowing how to sell contraband in Starfield becomes a crucial part of gameplay for those looking to make a profit from these risky goods. This guide will help you navigate the underworld of smuggling and selling contraband without running afoul of the law.
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Identifying Contraband in Starfield

First things first, you need to know what counts as contraband in Starfield. Items that are illegal will have a small yellow marker in your inventory. This is similar to how stolen items are marked with a red marker.
While not every planet enforces strict laws, patrolled areas like New Atlantis or Neon will scan your ship before you land. If you’re caught, you could end up arrested, so it’s essential to recognize and manage your contraband wisely.
Safe Havens to Store Contraband
Before you attempt to sell contraband in Starfield, you need a safe place to store it. Most planets don’t have patrolled areas, so you can carry contraband freely to these locations.
For those with the Dream Home trait, your house on Nesoi offers a perfect spot to stash your goods before venturing into more secure areas. But if you’re looking to make some credits, you’ll need to know where to take your contraband next.
Smuggling Contraband
Smuggling contraband in Starfield is a game of risk and reward. The Deception skill, found in the social skill tree, can make your ship less susceptible to scans, reducing your risk of getting caught.
Additionally, upgrading your ship with specialized cargo holds and scan jammers can help you sneak contraband past the authorities. Remember, the more contraband you carry, the higher your chances of getting caught, even with these precautions.
Selling Contraband
When it comes to making a profit from your illicit goods, you’ll want to find a Trade Authority kiosk. These kiosks don’t discriminate against contraband and usually have more funds than other vendors. The Den, located in the Wolf system, is an ideal spot to sell contraband in Starfield. It offers a Trade Authority store and kiosk close to your ship, and best of all, they won’t scan your ship when you dock.
If you manage to get your items past customs, you’ll find a yellow Trade Authority kiosk at nearly every settlement with a spaceport. Full Trade Authority stores are less common, but you can find one in Cydonia on Mars and another in Neon on Volii II.
Consequences of Getting Caught
If you’re caught with contraband in Starfield, you’ll face a tough choice. You can either pay a fine and have your contraband confiscated or serve jail time and lose XP. The severity of the punishment will depend on the quantity and type of contraband you’re carrying. It’s always best to weigh the risks before attempting to smuggle illegal goods into patrolled areas.
Conclusion
Selling contraband in Starfield can be a lucrative venture for those willing to take the risk. By carefully managing your inventory, utilizing safe storage, and making the most of your ship’s upgrades, you can become a successful smuggler.
Just remember to stay alert, keep an eye on your Deception skill, and always have a backup plan in case things don’t go as smoothly as you’d hoped. With the right strategy, you’ll be able to turn those ill-gotten gains into a fortune.
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