I decided to write this to help some exhibitors understand the terminology of the trade show industry. In order to get what you want done on the trade show floor you must first understand the terminology. I remember years ago when I first entered the trade show industry, I simple did not know most of the terminology. In that I decided to see if I can help a little by putting some terms together to see if I can help others
Blueprint
Blueprint drawings is the drawing of a particular booth either for set up oft for building
Shipping Crate
shipping crates is used to transport the product to and from trade show. Basically it is a container for transporting items
Show Manager
Show managers organize and manage the trade show and or event.
Subcontractor
Subcontractors are individuals or companies hired by a general contractor to provide services for a trade show. This person or company usually have to file a EAC form , Exhibitors appointed contractor.
Turnkey Packages
Turnkey packages all inclusive trade show booth and components, labor to set up and dismantle booth .
Velcro
Velcro is the trade name for hook and loop fabric that joins when pressed together and separate when pulled apart.
Exhibit Designer/Producer
The exhibit designer/producer is the individual or company responsible for the design and construction of exhibit booths.
Labor Call
Labor call is when you set up a specific time for you to receive your laborer for your booth. Example you have a labor call for 4 men on Friday at 8:00am. Your labor will be there waiting at 8:00am on Friday ready to work
Less Than Truckload (LTL)
Less than truckload, or LTL, is the set rate charged for freight that weighs less than the minimum weight specified.
Light Box
Light boxes are boxes containing light fixtures, usually to light up graphics from the rear
Linear Display
a linear or in-line display is a display which is set up straight in-line with the Aisle. This space can only be approached from aisle unless this is at the end of an aisle
Marshaling Yard
the marshaling yard is the area where trucks wait for dispatch. Truck drivers check-in with a trade show facility and then proceed to the marshaling yard to wait for loading and unloading instructions.
Masking Drape
masking drapes are cloths that cover storage areas. Usually in rear of booth space or covering columns etc .
Union
A union is an organized group of workers who protect the rights of workers and increase the bargaining power with employers on the issues of hours, benefits, and wages.
Modular Exhibit
A modular exhibit is built with interchangeable components able to be set up in different sizes and arrangements.
O.T. Labor
O.T. labor, or overtime labor, is worked performed outside of regular work hours.
Rear Illumination
Rear illumination, also called back-lighting, involves lighting a translucent image from behind.
Rigger
Workers who handle and assemble machinery hanging signs etc .
Runner
This is the person who goes out to get anything for your booth, may it be carpet tape or light bulbs etc
Trade Show Exhibits
This is the actual component that make up your booth space. These structures display your product or service
S.T. Labor
S.T. labor, Straight time this is usually between the agreed 8 hour time frame, any thing after this is either Overtime or Double time
Scissors Lift
a scissors lift is a motorized platform that can lift people to a certain height. Usually used to do high or above the floor work
Set-up Drawing
Set-up drawings are installation instructions to set up the booth in question.
I do certainly hope these word help you to understand the trade show industry. The industry and its terms can be over whelming if this is your first time dealing with trade shows do feel free to contact ELDS, INC with any questions or concerns at your next trade show
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