Different Types of Trade Show Freight
Understanding Your Trade Show Freight and Packaging Options
When preparing for a trade show, you may need to ship a variety of materials, including everything from small promotional items to large, complex booths. The ideal shipping materials for this trade show freight will vary based on the item’s size, fragility, destination, and more.
Commonly Used Trade Show Materials
Here is a breakdown of the materials most commonly utilized during trade shows, along with useful details on their ideal methods of being packed and shipped.
Booths and Displays
When it comes to trade show freight, booths and displays are often the largest items that must be transported:
- Modular Displays: these lightweight and collapsible displays are designed to be easy to pack and transport. They are often packed in padded shipping cases or cartons with sturdy frames to prevent potential damage.
- Custom Booths: these larger, custom-built setups are uniquely designed to fit a company’s branding and event needs. Custom booths may require crating to protect their components during transport.
- Signage and Banners: these visual elements are popularly used at trade shows. They are typically rolled and shipped in tubes or flat boxes to prevent creasing and maintain their quality, offering maximum protection.
Marketing Materials
Trade show freight carriers may transport a variety of marketing materials for their clients to distribute throughout the show. This often includes:
- Brochures and Flyers: these printed materials are often sent as small parcel freight. To protect the contents, these items may be packed in reinforced cartons or boxes to prevent potential bending or folding.
- Promotional Giveaways: branded pens, bags, and other promotional items are often transported via less-than-truckload (LTL) freight to save costs. Well-organized pallets or cartons help keep the items intact.
Furniture and Fixtures
Some furniture and fixtures can be rented at the show. However, certain specialized versions may be delivered by your carrier, such as:
- Tables, Chairs, and Counters: these items are commonly shipped disassembled or flat-packed to save space and protect the components. These strategies protect the items and allow for easier loading and unloading.
- Display Cases: these often fragile items are used to showcase a business’s products. Display cases often require crating or additional padding to safeguard the glass and protect various structural components.
Audio-Visual Equipment
If your booth or display features audio-visual equipment, a trusted freight carrier can ensure that everything is delivered safely, like:
- Monitors and Projectors: as these items are often fragile, they are shipped in padded cases or crates to provide cushioning against bumps and vibrations. Foam inserts may be used to add further protection.
- Lighting and Sound Systems: these items are carefully packed with protective materials and secured tightly to avoid movement during transportation. These crates tend to be sturdy and shock-absorbing.
Product Samples and Prototypes
Trade shows give you the opportunity to introduce your audience to your products and offerings. As such, your carrier may transport:
- Large Machinery or Fragile Prototypes: these items are typically shipped in heavy-duty crates to provide maximum protection. Crates that fit the specifications of the items also assist with the unpacking process.
- Sensitive Items: delicate items should be packed with specialized materials for protection during transit. These materials may include foam inserts, anti-static bubble wrap, or climate-controlled cases.
Interactive Displays and Demo Units
To create a booth that makes a strong impression, you may utilize interactive displays and demo units. Your carrier can help with:
- Touchscreens and Kiosks: these items are often shipped in padded or crated containers that protect the electronic components from shocks. Larger units may be secured on pallets to prevent shifting during transit.
- Demo Units: depending on their size, these larger items may require flatbed trucks or specialized freight. This approach allows for secure transportation and easier unloading at the venue.
Transport Your Materials With Our Experienced Trade Show Freight Carriers
Each type of freight requires specific shipping solutions. Whether you’re moving small giveaways or large custom displays, selecting the right trade show freight options ensures everything arrives intact and on time. Our tradeshow logistics division is here to help.
Contact us to find the best solution for your next trade show!
