4 Essentials You Need to Know for Trade Show Shipping

Trade show shipments can get a little complicated because there are numerous things you have to keep in mind to proceed with fewer disruptions. Depending on the size of the trade show, there will be trucks constantly going in and out to pick up and deliver trade show freight.

To get you through the mess, follow these quick tips for your trade show shipment:

BOL at Pickup

The BOL (bill of lading) used at pickup is incredibly important to make your tradeshow shipment successful. The freight BOL will need to have the following information on it. It needs to be visible and easy to read.

• • The physical address of the complex or building hosting the tradeshow.
  • The specific name of the tradeshow your specialty freight is going to.
  • Your tradeshow booth name and number.
  • Show the decorator and phone number.

Freight Carrier

Trade show logistics require certain paperwork that some regional and smaller carriers do not possess. You must make sure the freight carrier you're working with can and will participate in trade show shipping. If you don't you might end up with stranded freight and other unnecessary charges.

Freight Class

Freight class can be incredibly complicated, but when it comes to trade shows, that's not the case. Any items being picked up or delivered to a trade show will be in class 125. That means your trade show shipment might be cheaper or more expensive depending on your usual freight class. You can figure that out ahead of time.

Delivery Window

Every carrier that has permission to deliver to the trade show will have a designated date and time for delivery. You should make sure your freight is at its destination the day before the delivery date. That way, the carrier can set up a delivery appointment. If you miss the appointment, the carrier has to contact the trade show authority and set up a new appointment. This significantly delays the process, and you might completely miss the trade show.

Trade shows are held in convention centers all over the country. As of October 2016, there were 252 convention centers in the United States. California and Florida had the largest amount with 20 locations each, followed by Nevada which had 19. No matter where your trade show takes place, make sure you understand the essentials listed above so your trade show shipment is a success.