Full Service Trade Show Contractor — What to Look For

A full service trade show contractor handles every aspect of your exhibit program — from initial design through post-show storage. The right partner makes exhibiting effortless; the wrong one creates expensive headaches. Here's how to find the right one.

What "Full Service" Actually Means

The term "full service" is used loosely in the exhibit industry. A genuinely full service trade show contractor should provide:

• Strategic consultation: Show selection, budget planning, ROI goal setting
• Exhibit design: 2D layouts, 3D renderings, graphic design
• Fabrication: In-house or tightly managed manufacturing
• Graphics production: Digital printing, fabric graphics, specialty finishes
• Freight management: Outbound and inbound shipping coordination
• Show services coordination: Electrical, internet, furniture orders
• Installation and dismantle: Expert on-site crew
• On-site supervision: Project manager presence at the show
• Post-show storage: Secure, climate-controlled warehousing
• Maintenance: Repairs and refurbishment between shows

The Fabrication Question

Perhaps the most important question to ask any exhibit contractor: "Is your fabrication done in-house?" Companies that outsource fabrication often have less quality control, slower turnaround and less ability to troubleshoot problems. In-house fabrication also typically means better pricing as there's no middleman markup.

International vs. Domestic Contractors

For companies exhibiting internationally — or international companies exhibiting in the US — working with a contractor experienced in cross-border exhibiting is essential. Look for:

• Experience with ATA Carnets and customs documentation
• Established freight forwarding relationships
• Local labor contacts in target markets
• Multi-currency pricing and international payment experience
• Understanding of local venue regulations in target countries

Evaluating Contract Terms

• Payment schedule: Standard is 50% at contract, 25% at production, 25% at delivery
• Cancellation policy: What's the penalty for cancelling at different stages?
• Change orders: How are scope changes priced and approved?
• Damage liability: Who's responsible for damage during installation or show?
• IP and design ownership: Who owns the exhibit designs?