How to hire a merchant ship?

[AnAverageN0OB]

So I have started as a fighter pilot in Albion Prelude and I'm looking for a way to get a steady cash income. I have a corvette as my main ship, but I also have a scout that I can sell.

How can I tell if a ship will be good for trading?
When I buy a ship, can I order it to automatically trade so I receive income, but don't control the ship.

[AleksMain]

So I have started as a fighter pilot in Albion Prelude and I'm looking for a way to get a steady cash income. I have a corvette as my main ship, but I also have a scout that I can sell.

How can I tell if a ship will be good for trading?
When I buy a ship, can I order it to automatically trade so I receive income, but don't control the ship.

Please, look for information here:
http://www.x3wiki.com/index.php/Traders

Sector Traders

Main article: Traders
Start Sector Trader is a valid command only if:

Trade Command Software MK3
Ship type M4, M3, M6, TS, TP, or TM
Not personal ship (i.e. you can't be in the ship)

Universe Traders

Main article: Traders
The Universe Trader is only available after certain conditions are met:

Trade Command Software MK3
Ship type M3, M6, TS, TP, or TM
Not personal ship
Pilot level 8 or higher (as shown in the pilot name for the ship)

In my personal opinion ...

Sector Traders and Universal traders can help to get a steady cash income, but fighting missions can give better income, cash income increasing from mission to mission.