To move objects in Starfield, you basically use a “grab”/“hold” action instead of just looting, then rotate and place them where you want.

Quick basics (PC & Xbox)

  • PC (keyboard/mouse)
    • Look at the item and hold E to pick it up without looting it.
* Once it’s “floating,” move your mouse to drag it around.

* **Tap E** again to drop it where you want.

* **Rotate** while holding it with **left and right mouse buttons** (LMB/RMB).

* **Change rotation axis** with **Shift** so you can tilt it in different directions.
  • Xbox controller
    • Look at the item and hold A to pick it up (not just tap).
* Move the right stick to drag it around.

* **Tap A** again to drop it.

* **Rotate** with **LT and RT** (left/right triggers).

* **Change rotation axis** by clicking **left stick (L3)**.

You can also throw items: while holding an object, press R on PC or X on Xbox to toss it.

Using build mode (outposts/ship interiors)

For placing furniture, decorations, and modules, build mode is more precise:

  1. Enter scan mode (F on PC or LB on Xbox).
  1. Press the build mode key (R on PC, X on Xbox) while in scan mode.
  1. Select an existing object or a buildable item.
  1. Move it around with mouse/left stick, then rotate it (same idea: mouse buttons or triggers).
  1. Place it when you’re happy with the position.

This is especially important for things like extractors on resource veins or neat ship/base decoration.

Extra tips & “hidden” tricks

  • You can decorate ships and bases by dropping items on the ground, then entering build mode and snapping them into place more cleanly.
  • For equippable items (weapons, helmets), hold the same grab key (E on PC) to move them, then rotate with LMB/RMB and switch axes with Shift.
  • Bodies and heavier objects can also be dragged if you can interact with them, but movement may feel slower or “heavier.”

Mini FAQ

Why does pressing E just loot instead of moving?
You need to hold E (or A on controller), not tap it, to enter the “levitate” mode instead of looting.

How do I stop it from spinning the wrong way?
Use Shift on PC or click the left stick on Xbox to change which axis you’re rotating around, then adjust with your mouse buttons or triggers.

TL;DR:
Hold E (PC) or A (Xbox) while looking at an object to grab it, move your mouse/stick to position it, rotate with LMB/RMB or LT/RT , and change rotation axis with Shift or L3 for precise placement.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.