How do I use carts to transport large amounts of metal?

Transporting large amounts of metal in Valheim can be a challenging task, especially when you need to move resources like copper, tin, or iron from mining locations to your base. Carts are an excellent solution for this, as they allow you to carry heavy loads efficiently. To use a cart, you must first craft it using 20 Wood and 10 Bronze Nails. Bronze Nails are crafted at a Forge using Bronze, which is made by combining Copper and Tin in a Smelter.\n\nOnce you have a cart, you can load it with metal ores, ingots, or other heavy items. To do this, simply approach the cart and press the interact key (default E) to open its inventory. Drag items from your inventory into the cart''s storage slots. Be mindful of the cart''s weight limit, as overloading it will slow you down significantly. A fully loaded cart can carry up to 18 stacks of items, making it ideal for transporting large quantities of metal.\n\nPushing the cart requires stamina, so ensure you have enough food to replenish your energy as you travel. The cart moves faster on flat terrain and slower uphill, so plan your route carefully. If you encounter steep hills or uneven terrain, consider building paths or bridges to make the journey smoother. You can also use the Hoe tool to level the ground, creating a more cart-friendly path.\n\nOne common challenge is transporting metal through dangerous biomes like the Black Forest or Swamp. To mitigate risks, clear the area of enemies before moving your cart. Bring weapons, armor, and healing items to defend yourself if necessary. Alternatively, you can build a temporary shelter or outpost near the mining site to store metal until you''re ready to transport it in bulk.\n\nFor long-distance transport, consider using portals to move yourself and the cart between key locations. While metal cannot be teleported, you can use portals to scout safe routes or return to your base for repairs and supplies. Once you''ve established a safe path, you can focus on moving the cart without interruptions.\n\nTo maximize efficiency, mine and transport metal in large batches. For example, gather a full cart of Copper Ore from the Black Forest before returning to your base. This reduces the number of trips you need to make and saves time in the long run. Additionally, consider building a Smelter and Forge near your mining site to process ores into ingots before transporting them. Ingots are lighter and take up less space, allowing you to carry more in a single trip.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for unexpected challenges. Carts can be destroyed by enemies or environmental hazards, so keep an eye on their durability. Repair your cart using a Workbench and Wood if needed. If your cart gets stuck or falls into water, you can dismantle it and rebuild it nearby. With careful planning and preparation, carts can become an invaluable tool for transporting metal and other heavy resources in Valheim.