Initial character selection?
 

I'm wondering if any of the possible initial character selection parameters and bonuses are any better than others. I've tended to pick a human merchant with a missile launcher (thrower) and a droid. My primary reason is that it's about the only combination I've found where you can actually fit everything in the hull.

Also the human seems to have the best general relations with other races, which means that fewer planets want to arrest you and more will give you missions.

Within the first few months I usually have changed out the engine, radar, scanner and maybe the gripper. One of my first priorities is to be able to jump ~40 Ps to allow me to accomplish text and FedEx missions at the higher pay levels.