Trading is one of the most exciting and rewarding aspects of Fallout 76. The game’s player-driven economy allows you to earn, spend, and grow your collection using the in-game currency: caps. But trading isn't just about making a quick deal — it’s about trust, fairness, and knowing the value of what you’re exchanging. If you're looking to get into caps trading, or simply want to improve your approach, here are 8 essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Whether you're after reliable Fallout 76 caps or looking to become a trusted vendor in Appalachia, these tips will set you up for success.

1. Do Know the Value of Your Items

Before listing anything for sale or entering a trade, take time to research its market value. Check community marketplaces, Discord servers, or Reddit threads. Pricing fairly helps you attract repeat buyers and build your reputation. Many items, like rare plans or legendary gear, can fetch high prices in Fallout 76 caps — but only if priced right.

2. Don’t Try to Scam Other Players

It may seem obvious, but trying to trick players with inflated prices or false claims can ruin your standing in the community. Fallout 76 has a passionate and tight-knit player base. Word spreads fast, and a bad reputation can follow you. Be honest, fair, and transparent in every trade.

3. Do Set Up a Well-Organized Vending Machine

If you're serious about trading, build a clean and easy-to-navigate vending machine at your C.A.M.P. Use signs to label categories (e.g., armor, weapons, plans), and group similar items together. A thoughtful layout shows buyers that you're organized and trustworthy.

4. Don’t Overprice Common Items

Overpricing common items like basic chems, ammo, or junk will turn buyers away. Always compare your prices to what other vendors are charging. The goal is to earn reliable Fallout 76 caps, not lose potential customers over a few extra coins.

5. Do Keep Your Shop Stocked and Updated

A stale vending machine won’t attract visitors. Regularly update your inventory with fresh gear, new plans, and useful consumables. Consider rotating high-value items to keep your store exciting. This keeps players coming back and builds a steady income stream of Fallout 76 caps.

6. Don’t Forget to Lock Your Display Cases

While display cases are great for showing off rare or cool items, make sure they’re locked to prevent accidental loss. Fallout 76 doesn’t allow direct stealing from displays, but keeping everything secure helps avoid bugs or confusion during trading.

7. Do Communicate Clearly in Player-to-Player Trades

When trading directly with other players, use in-game chat or emotes to clearly state what’s being exchanged. Confirm prices before completing the trade, and always double-check your inventory before finalizing. Good communication leads to smooth and fair transactions.

8. Don’t Hoard Caps Without a Plan

While it might be tempting to hoard your caps, remember that the game has a cap limit (currently 40,000). Invest your caps in valuable plans, C.A.M.P. upgrades, or crafting materials that improve your play experience. Smart spending ensures your caps are always working for you.

Final Thoughts

Trading is more than just a way to make Fallout 76 caps — it’s a way to connect with the community, discover valuable gear, and enhance your survival journey in Appalachia. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can become a reliable and respected trader that others look forward to buying from.

Keep your prices fair, your stock updated, and your communication clear. If you're focused on building a solid, reliable Fallout 76 caps income, smart trading habits are your best investment.