Trade Routes

[ArmySGT.]

I think for the most part trade routes are going to be small overlapping circuits traveled by the same traders (or family there of). In this way products could move from Texas to Idaho but, it would take months and become prohibitively expensive at either end.

Lets take 90 weight axle grease for example. Certainly a product of "Oilers" in the panhandle region. Common and low value there, as it moves along the route, its value increases with each trader trying to make a little profit. Each Trader may move through several communities taking a month to six months to make a full circuit. That circuit in the case of western states may all be in the same county! Maybe out of Idaho there is a source for refined copper and new copper jackets bullets are produced. Common there but highly valued 500 miles or more away.

Trade is likely going to be horse / mule trains as the most adaptable to any terrain with "Gypsy Truckers" using the major interstates where communities do some to keep the roads and trade open.