How do I complete Trader deliveries without losing goods?

Completing Trader deliveries in Red Dead Redemption 2 without losing goods requires careful planning, understanding of game mechanics, and strategic execution. The Trader role, unlocked through Cripps at your camp, involves hunting animals, delivering goods, and managing your supply chain. To ensure successful deliveries, you must protect your goods from rival players, NPC enemies, and environmental hazards.\n\nFirst, always prepare before starting a delivery. Ensure your weapons are fully loaded, your horse is well-fed and brushed, and you have plenty of health tonics and ammo. Stock up on items like Snake Oil, Potent Health Cure, and High-Velocity Ammo from the catalog or general stores. These will help you survive ambushes and fend off attackers. Additionally, choose the right horse for the job. A War Horse or a Turkoman is ideal due to their high stamina and health, which are crucial for long-distance deliveries.\n\nNext, decide whether to do a Local or Distant Delivery. Local Deliveries are safer but offer lower payouts, while Distant Deliveries are riskier but more lucrative. If you''re playing solo or are new to the role, start with Local Deliveries to minimize the risk of losing goods. For Distant Deliveries, consider forming a posse with trusted players to increase your chances of success. A well-coordinated team can defend the wagon and handle ambushes more effectively.\n\nDuring the delivery, stay alert and use the mini-map to spot potential threats. Rival players will appear as red dots, and NPC enemies may ambush you along the route. If you''re attacked, prioritize defending the wagon. Use cover, such as rocks or trees, to avoid taking damage. If the wagon is destroyed, you can still salvage some goods by loading them onto your horse, but this is time-consuming and risky. To avoid this, always keep the wagon moving and avoid stopping in open areas.\n\nEnvironmental hazards, such as steep cliffs or dense forests, can also cause issues. Stick to main roads whenever possible, as they are safer and easier to navigate. If you encounter a blockage or a dangerous area, dismount and clear the path before proceeding. For example, if a fallen tree blocks the road, use dynamite to remove it quickly. Always keep an eye on the timer, as running out of time will result in a failed delivery.\n\nFinally, use defensive strategies to protect your goods. If you''re playing in a public lobby, activate Defensive Mode to reduce the chances of being targeted by rival players. This mode makes it harder for others to lock onto you and reduces the damage you take. Additionally, avoid predictable routes and take alternate paths to throw off potential attackers. For example, if the delivery route passes through Valentine, consider taking a detour through the hills to avoid crowded areas.\n\nIn summary, completing Trader deliveries without losing goods requires preparation, teamwork, and situational awareness. Equip yourself with the right tools, choose the appropriate delivery type, and stay vigilant during the mission. By following these steps, you can maximize your profits and minimize risks in the Trader role.