A

A/V

Audio/visual support such as television monitors, VCRs, DVDs or taped music.

TIP: If you are going to own your equipment, investing in the proper travel containers can go a long way.

A/V Contractor

A supplier of audio/visual equipment and services, monitors, projectors.

TIP: Always tell your vendor what you intend to use the equipment for. They may have some suggestions that may help things run smoother.

Advance Order

An order for services sent to the service contractor prior to the installation date.

TIP: IMPORTANT! PAY ATTENTION TO ALL THE DATES ON YOUR FORMS. PASSING DEADLINES WILL COST MORE.

Advance Rates

Fees associated with advance orders, which typically include discounts when paid in advance.

TIP: Take advantage of these! Use that savings to boost your booth exposure!

Advance Receiving

Location set by show management to receive freight before the start of show. Freight is stored at this location and then shipped to the show at the appropriate time. Also known as advance warehouse.

TIP: This is important for shows with short installations dates.  It also helps isolate a better start time for your set-up crew to start.

Aisle

A walkway intended for audience movement through an exposition or exhibit.

TIP: Take note of the aisles on your floor plan. Having a “no freight” aisle in front of your booth can make for a difficult set-up.

Aisle Carpet

Carpeting installed in trade show aisles.

TIP: Depending on the show not all aisle carpet meets the booth flooring. It is often is several inches away.

Aisle Signs

Signs, usually suspended, identifying exposition aisles by number or letter.

TIP: Signs are often open to sponsors, if your budget allows it, the signs could be another way of driving traffic to your booth.

Call Trade Show Options to discuss your best signage options!

Assembly

The process of erecting a trade show exhibit from its components. Also called Installation, Set Up.

TIP: Rules for set-up vary from city to city. Generally exhibitors can set-up their own booth if it requires no tools and is 10x10 in size.

Call Trade Show Options to discuss your best options!

Attendees

Those persons who visit an event that are not exhibiting or connected with the event itself.

TIP: Read post show reports and trade magazines’ follow up analysis to get to know what your attendees are saying.

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Back-wall

Panels at the rear of an exhibit.

TIP: Generally a reference for inline exhibits.

Banner

A suspended panel used as a decoration or a sign, usually made of fabric or paper for temporary use.

TIP: Banner placement is very important for attracting the right eye. Be sure to study your booth flow for optimal placement.

Bill of Lading (B/L)

A document that establishes the terms between a shipper and a transportation company for the transport of goods between specified points for a specified charge.

TIP: Be sure to research your options well. Know exactly what your freight contains and you will end up saving.

Blanket Wrap

Uncrated goods covered with blankets or other protective padding and shipped via van line.

TIP: Usually van line companies will offer this service. They are generally better suited for booth components going to promotional events at malls/permanent installations. They have a tendency to cost a little more.

Blueprint

A scale drawing of booth space layout, construction, and specifications.

TIP: Make or request a few copies for file. Having your booth blueprints on hand will prove to always save time.

Boneyard

A storage area for empty crates and contractor materials.

TIP: The general contractor is in charge of this area. Any questions can be directed to them. Retrieving items left in crates can be very costly so always be sure you do not need anything left in crates.

IMPORTANT NOTE. MOST GC’S WILL NOT COVER DAMAGES CAUSED TO ITEMS LEFT IN CRATES MARKED EMPTY. Read your empty label, their disclaimer should be printed on it.

Booth Area

The amount of floor space assigned to an exhibitor (e.g., 10′x20′).

TIP: Take note of your booth’s exact dimension. Sometimes they may be less or more than standard (e.g., 22’x20’ or 9’x10’).

Booth Number

A number assigned by show management to identify an exhibitor’s floor space.

TIP: Clearly mark this on all items sent to your booth. It could make the difference of goods getting lost.

Booth Personnel

Staff members assigned by an exhibitor to work in an exhibit.

TIP: Check out local vendors, many deals can be made for helping attract traffic your way.

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CAD/CAM

Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing.

TIP: Another term for blueprints.

Carpenter

A skilled worker used to uncrate, install, dismantle, and recrate exhibit properties.

TIP: Some cities will utilize other unions to assist in exhibit labor. Other labor sources that are contracted may be Teamsters, expos and decorators unions.

Carpet Tape

Double-sided tape used to adhere the edge of a carpet to the floor.

TIP: Ordering ahead of time and have it sent along with your booth will save you unnecessary markup costs.

Carrier

A transportation line moving freight. Usually a van line, common carrier, rail line, or air carrier.

TIP: Your freight will not be released if this is not indicated on your bill of lading.

Cherry Picker

Equipment used to lift people to a given height.

TIP: Used to hang overhead signs.

Column

A pillar in an exposition facility that supports the roof or other overhead structures. Usually shown on a floor plan as a solid square.

TIP: Take note of location when planning your exhibit. If overlooked it will cause a problem. It has happened before.

Common Carrier

A transportation company moving people or goods. For exhibit freight, the carrier usually accepts only crated materials and consolidates the properties of several customers into one shipment bound for the same destination.

TIP: It is usually harder to guarantee delivery times if the carrier has many stops to make along its route.

Consignee

A person to whom goods are shipped.

TIP: If the bill of lading does not specifically state this, write it in yourself. Don’t be afraid to write notes on your form.

Consignor

A person who sends freight.

TIP: This is usually your company name, booth number and venue.

Consolidate

To ship freight to a central depot where several loads bound for the same destination are put together before being shipped to that destination.

TIP: This usually costs a lot less than direct shipments and is best for items that are not time sensitive.

Contractor

An individual or company that provides services or materials to a trade show and/or its exhibitors.

TIP: Research your options. Sometimes you can save some money using an independent contractor over the house.

Corner Booth

An exhibit space with exposure on at least two aisles.

TIP: Plan ahead if you have an existing booth. You may or may not be able to configure it for that type of space.

Crating List

An itemized list of the contents of a crate.

TIP: This will assist in staging your freight prior to set-up.

Cross-aisle

An aisle at a right angle to a main aisle.

TIP: Take notice of this. A properly placed graphic may catch the right eye.

Custom Exhibit

A display designed and built to meet the specific needs of an exhibitor.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options to find out what’s best for your project.

CWT (Certified Weight Ticket)

A measurement for shipping exhibit materials where the total weight is rounded up to the next 100 lbs and then divided by 100. Example: 760 lbs = rounded up to 800 lbs = 8 CWT.

TIP: IMPORTANT! This is the math in determining your drayage costs.

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D.T. Labor

Double Time Labor. Work performed on overtime and charged at twice the published rate.

TIP: Always check your calendar. Some holidays are paid at this rate.  Make sure you plan your install around it, if possible.

Damage Report

A report submitted by an exhibitor to a freight company or drayage contractor itemizing damage to shipped goods.

TIP: Be sure to have this done immediately. Call Trade Show Options for a tip on collecting for damages.

Dead Time

Time when a worker is unable to perform duties due to factors beyond his or her control.

TIP: Proper planning should eliminate this. This cost is unnecessary and if it is has occurred then something went wrong and a review is in order.

Declared Value

A shipper’s stated dollar value for the contents of a shipment.

TIP: Be careful when shipping overseas. A tax is imposed on the declared value of the shipments contents.

Decorator

A company (usually contracted by show management) responsible for the labor, drayage, signage, installation, decoration and dismantling of exhibits at the show facility.

TIP: These companies are there to help and in a pinch can prove to be invaluable.

DIM Weight

Length x width x height divided by 194 for domestic shipments, or divided by 166 for international shipments.

TIP: Good to know for storage and shipping purposes. Having this information can save you a considerable amount of time when researching quotes.

Directory

A catalog of basic information about the show, including exhibitors, floor plan and schedule of events. (This is also sometimes referred to as an On-site Program or Program.)

TIP: Always familiarize yourself with your fellow exhibitors and competitors location.

Dismantle

To take apart an exhibit.

TIP: Take notice of the dismantle dates. Overtime charges can be avoided if dismantle is extended to the days following. On larger shows they work through the night delivering crates, and waiting for them after the show may prove to be costly.

Display Rules & Regulations

Exhibit construction specifications endorsed by major exhibit industry associations. Also the specific set of rules that apply to an exposition.

TIP: IMPORTANT! There are almost always height restrictions for your booth and hanging sign. Also if you booth is a peninsula read your rule book.

Double-decker

A two-storied exhibit.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Drape

Drapes can be fabric, or special decor.

TIP: Sometimes the GC will provide an extra drape to cover an exposed back-wall.

Drayage

The movement of show materials from shipping dock to booth for show set up and back to dock for return shipment at end of show.

TIP: IMPORTANT!  THIS COSTS YOU A LOT OF MONEY! Only ship what is absolutely needed. Research what options protect your components best while taking WEIGHT into account.

Drayage Charge

The dollar cost based on weight.  Drayage is calculated based on

100 pound units (or hundredweight, abbreviated “CWT”).

TIP: There is usually a minimum charge.

Drayage Contractor

A company responsible for handling exhibit materials at a trade show.

TIP: The general contractor is in charge of this.

Dye-sub Graphic

A graphic printed on stretch fabric material.

TIP: Be sure to transport and dismantle these items with care. If handled properly they can last for quite a while.

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Easel

A stand for displaying objects.

TIP: Most GC’s will have this for rental.

Electrical Contractor

A company hired by show management to provide electrical services to exhibitors.

TIP: This is in most cases a union so take a look at your local rules and regulations. Also keep in mind that some cities require that an electrician do all your work. Try to set-up that procedure as much as possible before the show. These costs can add up.

Elevations

Scaled drawings depicting front and side views of an exhibit.

TIP: This is apart from your set-up prints or blueprints.

Est. Wt.

Estimated Weight.

TIP: Just like it says, it’s only an estimate and exact numbers are determined on site.

Event Marketing

Face-to-face promotional experiences between customers and companies.

TIP: Historically the most effective way to sell your goods so maximize your efforts and take advantage of everything around you at the event.

Exhibit Designer/Producer

Company responsible for designing and constructing exhibit booths.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Exhibit Directory

A guide for exhibition attendees which lists exhibitors and exhibit locations.

TIP: It’s like buying a house! Get to know your neighborhood!

Exhibit Hall

The area(s) within an exposition center where exhibits are located.

TIP: Some convention centers are so big that there are multiple halls. Be sure to know your specific name and location.

Exhibit Manager

Person in charge of a company’s exhibit program.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Exhibitor Appointed Contractor

A contractor hired by an exhibitor to perform trade show services independently of show management appointed contractors.

TIP: Be sure to have this form sent in ahead of time. This notifies the hall that an independent contractor will be on the floor.

Exhibitor Services Manual

A package of information containing all rules, regulations, and forms relating to an exhibition, provided to exhibitors by show management. Also called the ESM and Exhibitor Kit.

TIP: Read this the minute you get it! You have a tighter deadline than you thought.

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Fabrication

The construction of an exhibit.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Fire Exit

A door designated for emergency egress, which must be kept clear of obstructions.

TIP: Just be safe and know where to go in case of an emergency.

Fire Retardant

Term used to describe a finish. This coats materials with a fire-resistant (not fire proof) cover.

TIP: Take note that some material used on the show will have to be flame retardant. Some roofing or overhead items are usually inspected to be sure. Having documentation ahead of time will save a tremendous amount of headaches.

Floor Manager

An individual representing show management who is responsible for the exhibition area.

TIP: They are often walking the floor and have no other purpose than to help you have a good show. Don’t be afraid to pull one aside to ask a question. They are often very friendly and will often handle what you need.

Floor Marking

Method used to mark booth spaces.

TIP: Always double check before installing. Mistakes happen.

Floor Order

Order for services placed after exhibit installation has begun. Compare with Advance Order.

TIP: Keep this to an absolute minimum. The cost go up considerably for items ordered on the floor.

Floor Plan

A map showing the size and locations of exhibit spaces.

TIP: Your neighborhood.

Floor Port

A utility box recessed in the floor containing electrical, telephone, or plumbing connections.

TIP: Ask ahead of time where the electric is drawn from. This will help with install and will assist plan the electrical layout.

Foam Core

Rigid foam covered with heavy paper stock used for mounting signs, art, etc.

TIP: If used be sure to think about storing and shipping foam. It is very delicate and will often break if it is not handled properly.

Forklift

Motorized vehicle used to load, unload, and transport heavy items.

TIP: Have your crew plan properly for a forklift if it is needed to assist in your booth install. Scheduling it correctly will help minimize a costly expense.

Four Hour Call

Minimum work period for which union labor must be paid.

TIP: Most independent companies will charge a minimum for their labor, but this service usually involves a little more hands on attention. Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Freight

Exhibit properties and other materials shipped for an exhibit.

TIP: Choose the right material to protect your components. Don’t disregard this even if you have 1 or 2 shows a year. It will only help your items last a lot longer.

Freight Desk

The area where inbound and outbound exhibit materials are handled at a trade show.

TIP: The general contractor runs this desk.

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General Contractor

Show management appointed company providing services to a trade show and/or its exhibitors. Also called Official Contractor. Compare with Exhibitor Appointed Contractor.

TIP: The two largest GC’s are www.fremanco.com and www.ges.com

Graphic

A photo, copy panel, or artwork applied to an exhibit.

TIP: A good tip in finding a good vendor is looking at your other exhibitor booths. Ask them what company they used. Also Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

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Hall

General term used for an exposition facility or the exhibit area within a facility.

TIP: Clearly mark this on all items shipped to the show, if there are separate halls (e.g., South or North hall).

Hand Truck

Small hand-propelled vehicle used for transporting small loads.

TIP: If you have a delivery of literature that usually arrives to the show site from an outside vendor. Send a hand truck in with your freight to help carry boxes across the hall.

Header

A sign or other structure across the top of an exhibit.

TIP:  Take note of the weight. A lift may be required to assist in putting it in place.

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Installation & Dismantle (of an exhibit). Also known as Set Up and Take-down.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for your best option.

Independent Contractor

A contractor hired by an exhibitor to perform trade show services independently of show management appointed contractors. Also called Exhibitor Appointed Contractor, EAC.

TIP: Always research and find the best solution for your project needs.

In-line

An exhibit that is constructed in a continuous line along an aisle. Also called a linear display.

TIP: Consists of a back wall and return on either side.

Installation

The process of setting up exhibit properties according to specifications. Also called Assembly or Set Up.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Installation & Dismantle

The set up and take-down of exhibits. Also called I & D.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Installation Contractor

A company responsible for supervising and coordinating workers who install and dismantle exhibits.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Inventory

Total amount of equipment available for a show.

TIP: This is always good to know for insurance purposes.

Island Exhibit

A display with aisles on four sides.

TIP: Take note of where your electric is drawn on these booths.

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Jigged Crate

A special-purpose crate with hardware to secure exhibit properties in place to prevent shifting during shipment.

TIP: Highly recommended for preserving the lifespan of your exhibit.

Job Foreman

A person in charge of supervising and coordinating workers.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

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Kiosk

A stand independent of its display offering service or product information.

TIP: Check with show management. Sometimes they have a conglomerate of vendors displaying their product in kiosks throughout the convention center.

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Labor

Work performed during normal work hours at the standard rate. Overtime and Double Time – work performed outside the hours specified as normal working hours and (depending on the union and/or facility) usually billed at 150% and 200% of the standard rate respectively.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Labor Call

Method of securing union/installation employees.

TIP: Be sure to coordinate time with booth shipment and other vendors scheduled tasks.

Lamination

The process of bonding two or more substances together.

TIP: Take note of where you are storing your components. A hot warehouse can often affect your laminate.

Lead Recorder

An automated system used to conduct follow-up activities for sales prospects resulting from a trade show.

TIP: Fees can be added if your lead machine is not returned after the show.

Less Than Truckload (LTL)

The rate charged for freight weighing less than the minimum weight for a truckload.

TIP: Can be combined with other shipments going to the same destination. Take note of stops.

Light Box

An enclosure that contains lighting underneath a translucent facing material.

TIP: Take note of how much electric it draws as well as local rules. Some rules require an electrician to handle the install.

Linear Display

An exhibit that is constructed in a continuous line along an aisle. Also called In-line.

TIP: Electric is often run along the back wall.

Loading Dock

An area within an exposition facility where freight is received and shipped.

TIP: If a piece of your freight is missing, give a look here first.

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Marshaling Yard

A place where trucks gather for orderly dispatch to show site. Procedurally, truck drivers will check-in at a check-in trailer near the exhibit facility and are then directed to the yard to await their turn to proceed to the dock for unloading/loading.

TIP: Most carriers know there is a wait time. Be sure to just check with them to ensure no surprise costs.

Material Handling

This is inclusive to the unloading of exhibit material. It involves the handling of empty containers to and from storage, and removal of the material from the booth for reloading onto outbound carriers.

TIP: Take notice of the condition of your freight when arrives to your booth as well as back home. If it does not ship back to you ask your storage facility to give a receiving report.

Material Handling Agreement (MHA)

A document that establishes the terms between a shipper and a transportation company for the transport of goods between specified points.

TIP: Also referred to as Bill of Lading. Fill this out correctly as mistakes can be costly.

Modular Exhibit

An exhibit constructed with interchangeable components designed to be set up in various arrangements and sizes.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Move-in

The date specified by show management for beginning an exhibit installation.

TIP: Pay attention to the date as it will help dictate your install schedule.

Move-out

The date specified by show management for dismantling exhibits.

TIP: Pay attention to the date as it will help dictate your dismantle schedule.

Multimedia

Combining two or more types of audio/visual support in a presentation.

TIP: Always know exactly what you want. Use an expert if there is any uncertainty.

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O.T. Labor

Work performed on overtime.

TIP: Always establish an agreed rate before agreeing to services.

Official Contractor

Show management appointed company providing services to a trade show and/or its exhibitors. Also called General Contractor. Compare with Exhibitor Appointed Contractor.

TIP: The largest GC’s are www.freemanco.com and www.ges.com

On-site

A reference to the exhibit venue. Also called At-site.

TIP: Always know the exact street address of the venue.

On-site Order

Floor order placed at a show site.

TIP: Good planning eliminates the need for this.

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P.D.

Per Diem.

TIP: Generally used on jobs that require travel.  This will cover daily meals and typical travel incidentals.

Packing Case

See Shipping Case.

TIP: Investing in the proper packing for you booth components will give extra longevity to your properties. Keep weight in mind.

Packing List

A document prepared by a shipper itemizing contents of shipment and including other information needed by the carrier.

TIP: Usually located on the shipped material. It is generally enclosed in a plastic envelope.

Pallet

Wood or plastic base used to ship loose materials.

TIP: It is always best to shrink-wrap and secure materials with a type of banding to insure the safest trip.

Panel System

A prefabricated exhibit composed of connected rectangular panels of various sizes.

TIP: These systems are very versatile and can be depended on for strength.

Particle Board

A panel made of compressed, glued wood chips.

TIP: This is often used for crates. Take in mind this material carries extra weight.

Peg Board

The trade name for a type of hardboard with perforations. Usually used for hanging items.

TIP: Can be used in conjunction with metal systems giving you the ability the have a whole wall for hanging items.

Peninsula Display

An exhibit with aisles on three sides.

TIP: Always check show regulations for show rules. Sometimes peninsulas come with some restrictions.

Perimeter Booth

A booth space on a outside wall.

TIP: Take a look at your location. See how it can work for you.

Pipe & Drape

Tubing covered with draped fabric to make up the rails and back-wall of a trade show booth.

TIP: General contractors will be more than happy to help out and offer a pipe and drape to cover columns or uncovered back walls.

Pop Up

A portable display in which has a ‘pop up and open’ framing with attaching panels and/or graphics.

TIP: These are often set-up by exhibitors. These displays are very easy to handle and require no tools. If cared for correctly they can last for quite a while.

Portable Exhibit

A lightweight display unit that can be moved without a forklift.

TIP: These exhibits are often lightweight panel or metal truss systems. Some light tools are all that is required.

Power Strip

A unit containing multiple electrical outlets.

Tip: If you need them, buy them. They are relatively inexpensive and to continue renting adds up.

Prefab

A pre-built exhibit ready for installation.

Tip: Call Trade Show Options for the best options.

Press Kit

A package of materials put together for the media. Usually a folder containing press releases, product announcements, and other materials.

Tip: Let your I&D company aware of any left over materials should be saved. They can package and ship your unused papers with the exhibit.

Pro-number

A carrier-assigned number used to designate a specific shipment.

TIP: If this assigned be clear to write this number on your bill of lading.

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Quad Box

Four electrical outlets in one box.

TIP: These are bulky and often have rounded cords. Keep this in mind when planning any electrical layout.

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Rail

A low wall used to divide exhibits.

TIP: Check show regulations, sometimes a low wall is all that is allowed. A good idea is to have your display house make extra return walls that are short in height.

Rear Illumination

A technique using a light source to illuminate a translucent image from behind. Also called back-lighting.

TIP: This is very effective in drawing the eye to any graphic.

Rear Projection

A video technique in which images are projected on a screen positioned between the projector and the audience.

TIP: Always consult a professional when planning a presentation with audio/visual effects.

Refurbish

The process of repairing or reconditioning an exhibit to extend its life span.

TIP: Great alternative to having a new booth built. Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Release Forms

Forms provided by show management to permit the removal of materials from an exhibition.

TIP: If there are multiple shipments leaving the floor make sure that it is indicated on each bill of lading.

Rental Booth

A complete booth package offered to exhibitors on a rental basis.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Return Panels

Side panels joined perpendicular to the back-wall.

TIP: Necessary for stability. Check with show codes to avoid compromising show height and length restrictions.

Rigger

A skilled worker responsible for handling and assembly of overhead fixtures.

TIP: This is always the general contractor. If their services are needed be sure to plan correctly to avoid any more time than necessary.

Right To Work State

A State where no person can be denied the right to work because of membership or non-membership in a labor union.

TIP: Good to know where you are going. This is imperative for small companies looking to save some money, especially if they have the resources to send in employees to do set up.

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S.T. Labor

Straight Time Labor. Work performed during normal work hours at the standard rate. Compare with Double-time Labor, Overtime.

TIP: Checking your show book for install hours can help you plan work hours on a schedule that is cost effective.

Schematic Model

A diagram in model form.

TIP: Be sure to always receive an exact print that is to scale. Set-up can be very difficult if a rendering is misread. It is also very possible that the booth has changed since the rendering was printed.

Scissors Lift

A motorized platform used to lift people to a given height.

TIP: Used for installations that have a lot of high components. This can save a lot of time if the project and budget warrant.

Scrim

Fabric which is opaque when lighted from the front and transparent when lighted from the rear.

TIP: Many companies are going this way. Very lightweight and with new capabilities being developed, a fit for you is possible.

Self-contained Exhibit

A display which uses the shipping case as an integral part of the exhibit.

TIP: These exhibits are generally for smaller shows. It does however give smaller companies a way to be creative. Incorporating your crates into the booth set-up makes for a very quick exit.

Service Desk

The location at which exhibitors order services from show management.

TIP: You will usually find most general contractors set up close to show management headquarters.

Service Kit

A packet of show-related information and order forms provided to exhibitors by show management. Also called Exhibitor Kit.

TIP: IMPORTANT! Always read right away!

Set Up

The process of erecting an exhibit from its components. Also called Assembly, Installation.

TIP: Call Trade Show Options for the best option.

Set-up Drawing

Drawings which give detailed instructions for the installation of an exhibit. Also called blueprints/cads.

TIP: Make extra copies!

Shipping Case

A reusable container for transporting exhibit materials.

TIP: Look into cases that are made of high quality plastic. They are referred to as fiber cases as well. They are very strong and provide a lot less weight than some traditional materials.

Shipping Crate

A wooden container for transporting exhibit materials, which may be designed for a single use or custom built for extended reuse.

TIP: Spend your money wisely. A properly built crate can last a while and give good protection for your components.

Show Break

Time specified for the closing of an exhibition and beginning of dismantling.

TIP: Always plan your labor for a few hours after the show break. You may not want your labor just standing around waiting for the crates to arrive.

Show Decorator

A company or individual responsible for providing draping, carpeting, and signage services for the trade show and its exhibitors.

TIP: The largest show decorators are www.freemanco.com and www.ges.com

Show Manager

The organizer and operator of an exposition.

TIP: A good friend to have, make the time to introduce your self if possible.

Show Office

The show management office at an exposition.

TIP: All personnel have radios so you will be able to get what you need from the main desk.

Show Photographer

The show management appointed photographer for an exhibition.

TIP: It is good to have a professional picture of your exhibit. It can be used for marketing material and to help promote your product.

Show Producer

An individual or company that manages trade shows, including leasing the exposition facility, hiring official contractors, and promoting the show.

TIP: Research the show producers. They have other events that you may want to attend.

Show Rules

The general rules and regulations governing a specific trade show.

TIP: A quick review will result in fewer surprises.

Shrink Wrap

A process used to seal materials in transparent plastic.

TIP: All palletized materials should be packed this way. It helps keep all material secure. Buy some ahead of time and ship with the your booth. Material costs can add up and for a fraction of the cost you can avoid mark-ups.

Sign Standard

A frame on a stand into which a sign can be inserted for display.

TIP: If needed the general contractor may have these products on hand.

Skid

A low wooden frame used to support heavy objects or groups of materials for easier handling. Also called a pallet.

Skirting

Decorative covering around tables and risers.

TIP: If your table is missing one, see the general contractor and they will be happy to bring one by.

Soffit

A lowered portion of a ceiling.

TIP: These sometimes contain lighting. Be sure to think about the electrical hook up when planning.

Space

The area occupied by an exhibitor in the exhibition hall.

TIP: Even with the smallest booth, you should diagram out the space and fill in what you plan on bringing. Attend a show from any industry to get an idea of what people are doing to fully utilize the space.

Space Rate

The cost per square foot of exhibit space.

TIP: If you plan on attending a few shows or you know you will be attending for a couple of years, try to negotiate a deal for the promise of returning.

Special Handling

Applies to exhibit shipments requiring extra labor, equipment, or time for delivery to exhibit space, such as stacked, loose pieces and side load trailers.

TIP: Be sure to document the condition of all materials sent this way. You should report both sending and receiving condition.

Spotlight

A lamp that provides a defined circle of light.  Also called parcan.

TIP: These bright lights can provide extra attention to a graphic or product.

Staging Area

A location set aside to organize/hold properties.

TIP: Try to segregate a space in front/near your booth for items that have arrived but are not needed till the booth is complete. This will keep you from having to move items multiple times.

Stand

European term for booth.

TIP: When dealing with overseas shows always use a company that is familiar with the local venue.

Stock Exhibits

A predesigned display modified for a particular use by the exhibitor.

TIP: Several companies specialize in just this. Call Trade Show Options for the best deal.

Subcontractor

An individual or company retained by a general contractor to provide services.

TIP: Subcontractor can be fantastic because they can pass along savings to their clients. Just always know whom your dealing with and make sure that the original contact is always in communication with you.

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Table Top Display

An exhibit designed for use on the top of a table or similar surface.

TIP: Always pack up correctly and try not to stuff material that does not belong in the shipping container.

Talent

An individual or company hired to work in an exhibit to greet visitors, demonstrate product, or stage a performance.

TIP: Go online and check local listing for talent. Yellow pages or local papers online may be a good resource.

Target Date

A date set by show management for the arrival of freight at a trade show. Usually shipments received before or after this date are assessed a penalty charge.

TIP: Coordinate this time with your installation schedule. If materials were sent ahead of time, check to see when advance freight will hit the floor.

Teardown

When the show is over it is the dismantling of an exhibit. Also known as Take-down.

TIP: Most cities begin overtime at 4:30pm. Try to take down the next day to take advantage of straight time rates.

Time & Materials

A form of billing in which a consumer is charged for labor costs (time) and materials.

Trade Show

An exposition related to a particular industry or group, and open only to the members of that group.

TIP: Research a few shows within your industry and decide which is best according to your company goals and vision.

Traffic Flow

The movement of attendees in an exposition or exhibit.

TIP: Take note of the flow by your booth and direct signage to best capture the attention of the right eye.

Truss

Displays are aluminum and steel truss display framework.

TIP: Booths that are made of lightweight materials are great for avoiding heavy drayage bills but are limited in appearance.

Turnkey Packages

Pre-arranged booth packages which offer an additional discount on decorator materials including furnishings and exhibit displays.

TIP: Look to see if the company you chose is handling all work in-house.  If not, there is generally a mark-up on the work that is out-sourced.

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Union

An organization of workers formed with the purpose of protecting workers’ rights and increasing bargaining power with an employer on such issues as wages, hours, and benefits.

TIP:  Check with show management on local rules. The general contractor and EACS all pull labor from local unions. 

Union Steward

An on-site union official elected by coworkers to oversee a particular union’s work in a facility and resolve any disputes over union jurisdiction. Also known as Shop Steward.

TIP: If your project is large enough in a city that enforces union labor, a steward will be appointed to the project.

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Velcro

The trade name for a fabric closure with two components: hooks and loops. The two components adhere when pressed together and separate when pulled apart, allowing repeated use.

TIP: Order ahead of time and ship with the booth. This can be a very costly item to get on the floor.

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Warehouse Receipt

A receipt issued by a warehouse for goods received for storage.

TIP: Always request a report of the condition of your booth upon both departure and arrival.

Work Time

This is a period of paid time. Work time begins when laborers are turned over to an exhibitor and ends when they are released by the exhibitor.

TIP: Always plan correctly to maximize your labor. Keep them working on Straight time as much as the schedule allows.

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