The average exhibitor spends
50% of their trade show budget on shipping, space rental
and services. Follow these tips and you can save $ 3,072.00
at your next show.
Reduce or Eliminate shipping and drayage costs.
Shipping and drayage are costs that most exhibitors
overlook. These costs can get out of hand quickly when
you factor in expedited freight and material handling
costs.
You can eliminate these costs completely. That’s
right here’s how.
Choose a lightweight display that you can hand carry
into the hall by yourself. Ship it to your hotel then
carry into the show hall. Better yet check the display
onto your flight with you. It may be a little work to
get the display into the hall but it will help the bottom
line. Check out our powerhouse design sections. All
of the designs shown can be hand carried into most halls.
Eliminate Show Labor Costs
This is a simple one. Union rules say if you can install
your display yourself in 30 minutes or less you are
not required to use union labor. Use a display that
you can install yourself. This is another task that
may be require a little work but will pay off.
Get your Paperwork in early.
Plan ahead and order show services before the advance
deadline. This can save you as much as 40%. Be sure
to bring a copy of your completed orders to the show
floor. Show management companies are notorious for losing
your paperwork, resulting in higher at show rates.
Vacuum Up Savings
A neat clean booth space is imperative to present a
professional look. Before you pay the unions an outrageous
fee for daily booth cleaning think about this. You can
pack cleaning supplies and a portable mini-vacuum with
your display. Clean your booth yourself and save.
Make a List
Make a list of the items you may need on the show floor.
This may sound obvious, but careful use of a good checklist
can eliminate the need for last-minute at-show purchases
(such as light bulbs, cleaning supplies, etc.) that
have a huge price markup. I once received a union bill
or $120.00 to replace 2 light bulbs at a show at McCormick
Place.
Can the Trash Can?
Buy your own trashcan for about $3 instead of paying
as much as $15 to rent them at each show.
Cut the Cords
Buy extension cords and power strips prior to the show.
Extension cords cost about $5 at a discount store. You'll
spend about $20 to rent one at the show. Make sure the
cords are UL-approved and will carry a 20-amp load.
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