The smuggler is usualy a great class in the past Star Wars iterations.
But unfortunately in swtor the smuggler got short shrift ,Thin story line not enough xp to complete quests.
And so you have to GRIND in a quest driven game,The reason for quests is so you Don't Have to grind.
Smuggler are supposed to be free spirits. Not bound to any one port or person they go where the money is,on their own, gathering tips and information from associates in the cantinas and spaceports. Fast and loose , free and easy always on the look out for lucrative jobs. With slight of hand and sheer bravado smugglers make their way across the galaxy, hidden contraband and side kicks in tow.