What is the best way to transport heavy metals like copper and iron?

Transporting heavy metals like copper and iron in Valheim is a critical part of progressing through the game, as these resources are essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and armor. However, their weight and the distance between mining locations and your base can make this process challenging. The best way to transport these metals involves a combination of preparation, efficient inventory management, and strategic use of in-game mechanics.\n\nFirst, it’s important to understand the weight mechanics in Valheim. Metals like copper and iron are heavy, and carrying too much at once will slow you down significantly. Each copper ore weighs 12 units, while iron scrap weighs 12 units as well. To maximize efficiency, you should always aim to carry only what you can manage without becoming over-encumbered. This means prioritizing your inventory space and leaving room for essential items like food, weapons, and tools.\n\nOne of the most effective ways to transport metals is by using a cart. Carts are crafted at the workbench and require 20 wood and 10 bronze nails. Once built, the cart can be pulled behind you and has a storage capacity of 18 slots, making it ideal for hauling large quantities of ore. To use the cart effectively, clear a path from your mining site to your base, as rough terrain or steep hills can make pulling the cart difficult. If you encounter obstacles like rocks or trees, use your axe or pickaxe to clear the way.\n\nAnother method for transporting metals is by using portals. While portals cannot transport ores or metals directly, they can be used to move other essential items, such as food, tools, and building materials, to and from your mining site. This allows you to focus your inventory on carrying metals while using the portal to replenish supplies. To set up a portal, you’ll need 20 fine wood, 10 greydwarf eyes, and 2 surtling cores. Place one portal at your base and another near your mining site, ensuring both are named the same for a seamless connection.\n\nFor players who have access to the ocean biome, transporting metals by boat is another viable option. The longship, which requires 100 iron nails, 40 fine wood, and 10 deer hides, has a large storage capacity and is faster than the cart. To use this method, mine your metals near a coastline, load them onto the longship, and sail back to your base. Be cautious of storms and sea serpents, as they can pose a threat during your journey.\n\nFinally, consider setting up a temporary base or forge near your mining site. This allows you to smelt ores into bars on-site, reducing the weight you need to transport. For example, copper ore can be smelted into copper bars using a smelter, which requires 20 stone and 5 surtling cores. Once smelted, the bars weigh less than the raw ore, making them easier to transport.\n\nIn summary, the best way to transport heavy metals in Valheim involves a combination of using carts, portals, boats, and temporary bases. Plan your routes carefully, manage your inventory efficiently, and always be prepared for potential challenges. By following these strategies, you can streamline the process of transporting metals and focus on building and crafting in your Viking world.