In Fallout 76, trading is a barter-type transaction between two players. It includes selling or buying items in exchange for Caps, collectibles, costumes, or any other valuables. However, players can also use the trade function to give away excess items in their inventories.
Although it sounds basic, Fallout 76’s trading mechanics confuse even the most veteran players. That’s mainly because the game offers little to no instructions, and—even worse—Appalachia is full of scammers stealing goods by exploiting the loopholes. To help clarify the whole process, this guide explains how to trade with easy steps (and offers tips for avoiding scammers).
How to Trade in Fallout 76
To initiate a trade, approach another Fallout 76 player and hold the Y button (Triangle on PlayStation). Next, offer some goods from the inventory or request specific items from the other party. Finally, accept the deal to barter the provided stuff.
Here’s how each step of trading works:
- Offer. Once the trade starts, hover over an item in the inventory and press A (X on PlayStation) to put a price on it. This item will be added to the Offer List, and the other trader can take it or leave it.
- Request. Each trader can browse the other party’s inventory and press A (X on PlayStation) on a specific item to request it. This means that they “want” to pay for that particular good.
- Decline/Accept Offer. At the end of the trade, traders can Accept or Decline the deal by pressing A or X on the presented items.
How to Find Someone to Trade with
The best way to find another Fallout 76 trader is by posting ads or requests on the game’s subreddits. There are virtual marketplaces on Reddit where players post their goods and needs, finding others willing to exchange with them.
Go to a Fallout 76 marketplace subreddit and post a trade offer in the following format: “W: [Item Name] H: [Item Name].” The W stands for WANT, referring to the item in need; the H stands for HAVE, referring to the item that will be paid in exchange—which is often Caps.
What to Look Out for When Trading
The main issue with trading in Fallout 76 is the possibility of being scammed. Due to the loopholes, the other party may leave the trading session without paying the agreed money or delivering the requested items, which is a subtle way of stealing other players’ valuables.
To avoid scams, players are advised to let a courier — a third-party distributor — handle the trading. A courier ensures both traders receive their items and leave the session when the exchange is complete.
It’s also a good idea to check the online Fallout 76 Scammers Lists to see if the other trader is a trustworthy player.
Fallout 76 is available now for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.