How do I use a raft to transport ore and other heavy materials?

Using a raft to transport ore and heavy materials in Valheim is a practical early-game solution for moving resources across water. Rafts are the first watercraft you can craft, requiring 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. These materials are relatively easy to gather, making rafts accessible even for new players. However, rafts are slow and vulnerable to storms and sea creatures, so planning your route carefully is essential.\n\nTo craft a raft, you need to build a Workbench near water. Place the Workbench close enough to the shoreline so you can access it while standing in shallow water. Once the Workbench is set up, open the crafting menu and select the raft. After crafting, place the raft in the water by selecting it from your inventory and clicking on the water''s surface. You can then board the raft by pressing E and use the rudder to steer.\n\nTransporting ore and heavy materials requires careful planning. Rafts have limited storage, so you may need to make multiple trips if you''re carrying large quantities of resources. To maximize efficiency, gather all the ore or materials you need before setting sail. For example, if you''re mining Copper and Tin in the Black Forest, store the ore in a nearby chest until you''re ready to transport it. This minimizes the risk of losing resources to unexpected events like storms or serpent attacks.\n\nWhen sailing, avoid open ocean biomes if possible, as these areas are more prone to storms and hostile creatures like serpents. Stick to coastal routes and shallow waters to reduce the risk of capsizing or losing your cargo. If you encounter a serpent, try to outrun it by sailing toward land. Rafts are slow, but serpents will often lose interest if you reach shallow water or land.\n\nOne common challenge is navigating through narrow rivers or tight spaces. Rafts are not very maneuverable, so plan your route in advance. Use the map to identify safe paths and avoid areas with dense forests or rocky terrain that could block your progress. If you get stuck, you can dismantle the raft by breaking it with a hammer and rebuilding it in a more suitable location.\n\nFor experienced players, upgrading to a Karve or Longship is recommended for transporting heavy materials more efficiently. However, rafts remain a viable option for short trips or when resources are limited. Always carry a Hammer and enough materials to repair your raft during long journeys, as damage from waves or collisions can leave you stranded.\n\nIn summary, using a raft to transport ore and heavy materials in Valheim requires preparation and caution. Plan your route, avoid dangerous biomes, and make multiple trips if necessary. While rafts are slow and vulnerable, they are a reliable early-game solution for moving resources across water. As you progress, consider upgrading to faster and more durable ships for safer and more efficient transportation.