Long, long, ago in a galaxy far, far, away, there existed an empire which spanned many solar systems. The majority of these planets are inhabitable to some extent, and we're populated by humans during the great exodus from Earth. However, this empire is somewhat constrained by the absence of wormhole or hyperdrive technology. 

Industries which specialized in the transport of much needed equipment and personnel is the only way to get supplies from planet to planet. Ships are mounted with warp drives, specially built drives that can speed up travel in space. Crew members are put in suspended animation for the journey and are defrosted when reaching the location. Then, supplies are unloaded and payment is collected. However, the journey can take decades or even centuries before reaching the final destination. 

How can an industry built on transporting equipment operate under these circumstances?