Facts on Trade Show Shipping Companies

It doesn?t matter how amazing your trade show booth is if it never gets to the convention center. There exist more than 2500 trade shows in the U.S. each year, so it comes as no surprise that businesses have been formed to service every part of trade show attendance and display. One of the most highly competitive services, is trade show shipping.

Custom displays are usually pricey, and require special handling. The equipment that needs to be shipped is frequently frail and packed in several separate boxes. A trade show logistics provider has the resources to get the entire exhibit where it needs to be, in great shape and on time.

When embarking on a trade show tour proper planning is of the upmost importance. Know which service you will use, and how your objects will be packed. Shipping an exhibit is far more complicated than sending a box of parts to a customer. As a result of the special nature of exhibit materials, normal boxes or crates are rarely the most appropriate type container to use. Instead, consider using trade show shipping containers.

Many robust cases designed specifically for the materials employed in trade show exhibits. Fiberglass cases are particularly resistant to weather and abuse. They are available with dividers, keyboard shelves and other elements usually used in a booth. Custom cases are sometimes designed to store special equipment. This decreases the likelihood that an essential part of your exhibit will be broken.

Consider adorning your containers with either your company’s corporate logo or company colors. This not only makes them more identifiable, but also serves as free marketing for your company. Details like this make a significant statement. When it is time to decide on a company to provide your trade show shipping services, first ask whether the event host has a preferred provider that can offer a substantial discount . Use your contacts with industry organizations and other companies to get referrals. Internet listings should also provide you with a beginning point in your search. Rush transportation is always costly, so allow plenty of time for this.

To make your final choice, find out the specific services the shipper will provide, what form of packing and shipping system is employed to protect your material from shaking, shock and other risks, as well as how the shipment will be tracked. Ask for references, and what experience the carrier has with the trade show location. The carrier should also provide a written price quote for your exact circumstances.

Upon completion of the expo, always adhere to event rules on how to have your exhibit transported to your shipping carrier. Everything must be packed and properly labeled. Any items that are left behind will be ?forced?, meaning the event contractor will put the items into storage until arrangements are made for their return. This can add significantly to your trade show shipping budget.

Trade shows are an opportunity for your business to introduce new products and get new customers. The correct shipping service can help you stay focused on those tasks, instead of worrying about whether your samples will be at your exhibit when you need them.

June 3rd, 2009 | |