Finding Trade Routes on UEX

For traders in Star Citizen, finding the right trade route is crucial to maximizing profit while minimizing risk. The United Express Corporation (UEX) platform provides near real-time market data and trade route optimization tools that help traders make informed decisions. This guide will walk you through how to search for and choose the best trade routes using UEX.  Remember that all data is subject to change at any time and may be out of date.  All data is provided by players on UEX or SC Trade Tools.

Step 1: Access the UEX Trade Route Tool

1. Go to uexcorp.space and log in to your account.
2. Navigate to the Trade tab and select the Routes section.

Step 2: Define Your Trade Parameters

To get the best results, adjust the following search filters  This will allow for you to set specific parameters in order to meet your needs:

• Vehicle (optional): Choose your ship type.  This will automatically adjust the amount of cargo you can carry.
• Investment (optional): Select an amount to invest.
• Starting Location (optional): Choose your departure location. 
• Destination Options (optional): Set either a fixed destination or allow UEX to find the most profitable option.
• Ship Capacity (optional): Input your ship’s cargo capacity in the SCU section to ensure accurate profit calculations.
• Commodity Preference (optional): Filter by specific commodities if you have a preference for items like metals, processed goods, or raw materials.
• Distance (optional): Choose a maximum distance between start and end.
• Maximum Container Size (optional):  Chose a maximum container size.
• Maximum Weight (optional): Select a maximum weight.
• Factions (optional): Choose a preferred faction to deal with. 

Step 3: Refine Your Search with Additional Filters

To narrow down your trade route options even further, UEX allows for additional filtering based on specific route preferences:

• Loop: Prioritize trade routes that form a profitable loop for continuous trading.
• Load Dock: Filter based on docking availability at trade hubs.
• Autoload: Select routes where automated loading/unloading is supported.
• Legal: Choose only legally permitted trade routes.
• Monitored: Opt for routes that are closely monitored for security.
• Space: Specify whether you prefer space-based trading locations only.
• Refuel: Consider routes with convenient refueling stations on-site.
• Predicted: See estimated player trading trends to avoid oversaturated routes.
• Favorite: Will only show your saved routes you frequently use.

Step 4: Analyze Trade Route Data

UEX provides detailed trade route data to help traders make informed decisions. When reviewing your options, consider the following key factors:

• Commodity: The item being traded.
• Buy at: The pickup location for the commodity.
• CS (Max Container Size): The largest container size available for transport.
• Inventory: Estimated inventory levels at the pickup location.
• SCU: The amount to purchase based on your ship’s capacity.
• Investment: The amount required to purchase the listed SCU quantity.
• Sell at: The drop-off location for the commodity.
• CS (Drop-off): Maximum container size available at the destination.
• Inventory (Drop-off): Estimated inventory levels at the drop-off location.
• SCU-C: Cargo space required at the drop-off location.
• GM: Distance between the pickup and drop-off locations.
• ROI (Return on Investment): Expected profit percentage.
• Tons: Total weight of the load.
• Income: Profit from the completed trade.
• Loop Routes: Displayed with an icon (two arrows forming a circle). Clicking this icon reveals return load information to optimize continuous trading.

UEX provides trade routes ranked by profitability. When reviewing your options, consider:

• Price Spread: The difference between the buy price at the origin and the sell price at the destination.
• Distance & Quantum Travel Time: Longer routes may yield higher profits but require more fuel and time.
• Supply & Demand Trends: Some commodities fluctuate in price based on availability and trade volume.
• Player & NPC Activity: Highly trafficked routes may have increased piracy risk or market competition.

Step 5: Selecting the Best Route

Once you’ve analyzed the data, pick a trade route that offers:

• A high profit per unit ratio (maximize your earnings per cargo slot).
• Efficient travel distance to minimize fuel and time costs.
• A stable market with consistent supply and demand to avoid losses from price shifts.
• Security considerations to avoid unnecessary risks, especially on long-haul routes.

Step 6: Execute the Trade Route

1. Purchase the selected commodity at the designated supply location’s TDD or Admin kiosk.
2. Plan your route in your Star Map to ensure efficient navigation.
3. Monitor the market before arrival to confirm prices haven’t shifted drastically.
4. Sell your cargo at the destination and record your earnings.

Bonus Tips for Successful Trading

• Diversify Your Routes: Running the same trade repeatedly may cause price drops due to market saturation.
• Monitor UEX Updates: Prices fluctuate; checking before each run ensures profitability.
• Use Escort Protection: If transporting high-value cargo, consider hiring security to mitigate piracy risks.
• Be Aware of Game Updates: Star Citizen’s economy evolves, affecting trade viability over time.

Conclusion

Using UEX to find and optimize trade routes is a must for serious traders in Star Citizen. By leveraging near real-time data and strategic route planning, you can increase profits, reduce risks, and enhance your trading efficiency. Whether you’re hauling cargo solo or coordinating with Caliber Dynamics, a well-researched trade route can mean the difference between breaking even and making a fortune in the ‘verse.

Start planning your trade routes today and take control of your economic future!