Field notes · 5 min read
What to Order for Your Next Trade Show (Checklist)
Skip one item on this list and you'll discover it the morning the show opens. Here's everything to order — and the timing.
Every show, the same thing happens to first-time exhibitors: they order the back-wall and the table throw, show up Monday morning, and realize they're missing four things they didn't know they needed. Here's the complete checklist we walk new clients through.
Order 4–6 weeks out
Custom-fabricated booth structure. Hanging signs (require rigging coordination). Show-services paperwork (drayage, electrical, internet, lead retrieval). Booth-position confirmation (which neighbors are next to you affects design decisions).
Order 2–3 weeks out
Back-wall graphic (the single most important graphic — get artwork approved and into production first). Side wall panels. Header / overhead branding. Fabric SEG insert panels for booth structure. Step-and-repeat for any planned PR or photo moments.
Order 1–2 weeks out
Retractable banners (2–4 per booth). Table throws and counter wraps. Floor decals at booth entry. Literature racks. Brochures, sell sheets, business cards, and printed leave-behinds. Lanyards and badges if you're handling registration.
Order 3–7 days out (rush territory)
Last-minute reprints for damaged shipments. New panels for late artwork changes. Replacement table throws. Spare retractables. Fresh sell sheets if data updated. We accept rush production at 5–7 day standard, 24–48 hour expedited on most banners and panels.
Don't forget
Power strips and extension cords (show services charges $200+ for these — bring your own). Branded charging cables. Hand sanitizer dispenser with branded base wrap. Branded water bottles to give attendees. Notepads and pens with your branding. Trash can with a wrap. The booths that win pay attention to every surface.
"Skip one item on this list and you'll discover it the morning the show opens."
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