IP contracts: Don't trade ONLY in IP, but they are nice in combination with Outpost Trading.
In my notes/etc I use the abbreviations IP and OT. It makes it easier for me, not sure what the 'standard' is within the playerbase to differentiate between the different contracts (Leth contracts while trading in Zoluren, particularly if I have a Therengia IP contract, gets its very own 2 letter abbreviation)
For Example:
You're in Riverhaven, pick up an IP.
As you pass Dirge, pick up a contract.
When you pass Stone Clan, pick up a contract.
Same with Arthe Dale.
If the IP is to Crossing, I'd probably go ahead and drop it off, hit Tiger/Wolf Clans, then pick up a new IP as I pass back through Crossing.
If the IP is to Ilithi, I might skip Arthe (on the 20% chance it's to Dirge, I hate late contracts) depending on the time remaining on the IP. I try to get there at least 15% early, seems to be the highest profit/learning, though I haven't been collecting this data, unfortunately, to verify my observations. Basically, for every anlas on an IP, I try to have at least 5 minutes remaining before it's due. Closer to 10/anlas on the original contract if I can swing it without too much trouble is always a plus.
Point is, trade both simultaneously, once you can afford a caravan to hold it all.
Thrall of Dergati,
Heroiklim Zortal
Cast of iron, dull grey and pitted, this altar is cold and lifeless. A thin coating of rust covers its surface. The words "Even Death We Master" are scrawled across the altar, defacing even destruction.
