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Controlling Trade Show Costs
Across the country the cost of trade show services, including shipping damage, setup, tear-down, and show support have risen dramatically. It's a major concern to every manager. But you can keep costs in line and even reduce service costs by applying a little planning and attention to:
- Pre-show preparation of the exhibit
- Shipping procedures
- Information follow-through
- Rerouting evaluation
- Rerouting procedures
The summary below should help you curtail your trade show costs.
Pre-Show Preparation of the Exhibit
- Is the exhibit "right" for the show?
- Does it tell the right story?
- Are any alterations necessary?
- Has it been inspected?
- Is it in good condition?
- If not, have repairs been made?
Shipping Procedures
- Has the quickest and least expensive method of shipping been elected?
- Has the exhibit been shipped early enough?
- Has it been shipped via the proper carrier?
Information Follow-Through
- Has a bill of lading been provided to those who will set up the exhibit?
- Have the trailer number and tracing information been provided?
- Has the case containing set-up drawings and hardware been clearly identified?
- Have those in charge of the exhibit setup received copies of the order forms for various services?
- Furniture?
- Floor covering?
- Electrical?
- Telephone?
- Plumbing?
- Cleaning?
- Special orders?
- Other?
- Have those who will set up the exhibit been notified the identity of the person to be in charge of the exhibit?
- Also, where can they be reached at any time given?
- If an exhibit service organization is being used, has the company person in charge been notified where he can reach the organization's representative?
Routing Considerations
- Should you ship the exhibit back to the point of origin?
- Should you store it temporarily in the city where the show is being held?
- Should you ship to the city where it will be exhibited next?
- Have clear instructions been given for rerouting?
