Once you get your trader down, being in a fellowship will be a big help with acquiring goods since you can trade with fellowship members for free without fees. If you are not in a fellowship, you can only trade freely with neighbors you've scouted too. If you see gigantic lopsided trades when you get to your trader, most of them are because of the trader fee, which is a whopping 50% when you start out. Fellowship also gives you access to tournament, which is the best source of relics. Relics are handy for increasing your boosted goods production and often asked for in event quests. Welcome and happy building!