How to smuggle and sell contraband in Starfield

In the vast universe of Starfield, smuggling contraband plays a crucial role for players, especially when traveling to planets with strict cargo inspections. To help you navigate this risky business, we've put together a friendly guide outlining the essential steps and abilities required.

The first step in becoming a successful smuggler in Starfield is acquiring the necessary upgrades to bypass detection. Possessing certain abilities is key to ensuring a smooth smuggling operation. Two highly recommended upgrades are the Scan Jammer and the Shielded Cargo Hold.

The Scan Jammer is an essential tool that disrupts enemy contraband scans, making it difficult for them to detect the illicit items you are carrying. This upgrade will significantly increase your chances of successfully smuggling contraband without raising suspicion.

The Shielded Cargo Hold is another crucial upgrade that provides an extra layer of protection for your smuggled goods. It shields the contraband items from detection, making it even more challenging for authorities to uncover your illegal cargo.

To acquire these upgrades, players have a few options. One way is to join the notorious Crimson Fleet, a group of skilled criminals who excel in smuggling operations. By aligning yourself with them, you gain access to their resources and expertise, including the Scan Jammer and Shielded Cargo Hold upgrades.

Alternatively, players can also capture specialized ships designed for illicit activities. These ships often come equipped with the necessary upgrades, making them an excellent choice for aspiring smugglers who prefer a more independent approach.

Investing in the Deception skill is another crucial aspect of successful smuggling in Starfield. The Deception skill allows players to manipulate and deceive their enemies, reducing the chances of contraband scans detecting their illegal cargo.

Each rank-up in the Deception skill significantly reduces enemy contraband scans, giving players a greater advantage when smuggling their goods. By honing this skill, players can navigate through heavily guarded areas with ease and avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Once security measures have been successfully circumnavigated, it's time to sell your contraband items. Finding the right place to offload your goods discreetly is essential to avoid arousing suspicion and getting caught.

Head over to Trade Authority facilities, which offer opportunities for smugglers to sell their contraband. These facilities are discreet and often have connections to underground markets, ensuring a safe and profitable transaction. However, be cautious and choose your buyers wisely to minimize the risk of betrayal or authorities infiltrating your operations.

Inevitably, there is always a risk of getting caught while smuggling contraband in Starfield. If detected, players may face various consequences depending on the severity of their infractions.

The most common consequence is the imposition of fines. Authorities may seize the contraband items and impose hefty fines, leaving players with a significant financial setback. In more severe cases, players might even face jail time, where they must navigate the complex prison system to secure their release.

Additionally, players may receive warnings that result in penalties such as loss of experience points, contraband items, and restricted freedom. These penalties can significantly impact a player's progress and make future smuggling operations more challenging.