Logistics & Shipping: The Labyrinth of Getting Your Booth to the Show Floor

The physical process of transporting exhibit materials to a U.S. trade show is often the most daunting aspect for international companies. The sheer size of the country, coupled with a multi-layered logistics system, prompts a host of questions.

Key Questions:

• What is drayage and why is it so costly?

  Perhaps the most common and perplexing question, "drayage" or "material handling" refers to the movement of freight (your stand and all items on it) from the loading dock to the booth space and back. Unlike in many other countries, this service is the exclusive domain of the official show contractor, and its cost—often a significant and unexpected budget item—is based on weight and can vary widely between cities and venues.

  
  

• How do I clear U.S. Customs with my booth and products? 

  Understanding the necessary paperwork, such as commercial invoices and the potential need for a Temporary Importation Bond (TIB) or an ATA Carnet, is crucial. Exhibitors are often concerned about potential delays and the proper classification of their goods to avoid hefty fines or having their shipment held up. A full service U.S. exhibit house, like Metro Exhibits, will handle all this for you.

  
  

• What are the deadlines for advance warehouse shipping versus direct-to-show shipping? 

  The concept of an "advance warehouse" where goods can be sent weeks before the show, can save money and stress, and is a common practice in the U.S., but not globally. Exhibitors frequently inquire about the pros and cons of this, versus sending their materials directly to the convention center during a much tighter move-in window.