The best place to sell contraband in Starfield without getting scanned is The Den space station in the Wolf system. This location is unique because it does not require a ship scan upon arrival, allowing you to sell contraband safely and without risk of detection. The Den is a UC military structure but has no contraband scanning, making it the safest and easiest option
. At The Den, after docking, you can find a Trade Authority kiosk where a trader named Marcel Duris will buy your contraband. The trader has a limited amount of credits (around 11,000), but you can reset their credits by waiting for 48 hours in-game (sit or sleep for 24 hours twice)
. Other places to sell contraband include Trade Authority shops in major cities and space stations like New Atlantis (Jemison), Cydonia (Mars), Akila City, and Neon, but these locations often involve ship scans by United Colonies or Freestar Collective security, which can detect contraband and cause trouble
. If you want to avoid scans elsewhere, you can either invest in ship upgrades like shielded cargo bays or use outposts outside jurisdiction to store contraband before selling it at The Den
. In summary:
- The Den (Wolf system) : No scans on arrival, safe and easiest place to sell contraband.
- The Key (Crimson Fleet space station in Kryx system) : Another safe option if you join the Crimson Fleet, but farther away.
- Trade Authority shops in major settlements : Will buy contraband but risk scans.
- Use the "Wait" mechanic to refresh vendor credits at The Den.
This makes The Den the prime location to sell contraband without getting scanned in Starfield
