Trade show shipping is an important niche area of logistics. Whether professionals want to work in this part of the industry or need relevant service providers, they should understand how these offerings work and learn what are the best trade show shipping companies for specific needs.
What Is Trade Show Shipping?
Trade show shipping encompasses the process of moving exhibits, products and other relevant materials to and from trade shows. Companies providing such services also bear the responsibility of getting clients’ items to the correct locations on the show floor. The associated representatives are the only parties allowed in particular venue locations because they must arrive before an event starts and stay after it finishes to fulfill their duties.
How Does Trade Show Shipping Work?
Trade show shipping has three main phases. Inbound transport involves sending freight to the venue or the advance warehouse, where it remains until someone moves it to the event location. Those handling it must meet tight deadlines to ensure the goods arrive at their destinations on time.
Clients who use advance warehouses get reassurance that their trade show products will reach them several weeks before an event. Conversely, the time window is shorter when goods go directly to venues. In the latter case, a shipping representative checks in with the trade show goods by attending a marshalling yard on a designated date and time. A representative will call them when it is their turn to deliver the shipment to the venue.
Next, the material handling or drayage stage involves delivering freight from the loading dock to the client’s venue booth. The professionals overseeing this part of the process also transport the freight from the show floor back to the loading dock once the event finishes.
Finally, an outbound carrier picks up the freight from the loading dock to transport it to the next destination. That may be another trade show or back to where the client intends to store it until the next use.
What Are the Best Trade Show Shipping Companies?
Parties seeking a smooth trade show shipping experience will achieve the best results by partnering with experienced specialists. These providers will use their real-world knowledge to achieve favorable outcomes.
1. Green River Logistics Solutions
Green River Logistics Solutions builds trusted partnerships with clients — including small and midsized businesses — by doing whatever it takes to ensure their satisfaction. This logistics provider allows interested parties to request instant rates, helping them budget for their anticipated requirements.
Key Features
| Offers personalized service to meet clients’ needs | Handles overdimensional and heavy-haul options on request |
| Provides domestic and international service | Gives clients real-time tracking information |
2. TWI Group
Founded in 1972, TWI Group aimed to fill an unmet need for trade show shipping services. Since then, it has become one of the industry’s most experienced providers. A firm commitment to excellent customer service has helped the company reach this level.
Key Features
| Offers free estimates for trade show and exhibition logistics | Maintains a worldwide network of specialists |
| Holds numerous relevant shipping-industry certifications | Provides shipment-tracking information |
3. XPO
XPO offers a worry-free trade show pick up and delivery service with a customer-focused team of local managers, service representatives and drivers. It has one of the industry’s lowest claim rates and consistently achieves on-time deliveries.
Key Features
| Operates a dedicated logistics support desk | Offers tailored support for individual trade show requirements |
| Provides five days of complimentary storage | Serves 99% of ZIP codes in the United States and Canada |
4. Mercury
Mercury specializes in trade show shipping, delivering on time and with outstanding attention to detail. All clients have access to a portal that lets them track their shipments and view other important information.
Key Features
| Provides overnight/next-day shipping when appropriate | Securely and safely handles items throughout their journeys |
| Assists clients with domestic and international trade shows | Assigns a dedicated support team to every customer |
What Characteristics Do the Leading Trade Show Shipping Companies Share?
Companies appeared on the list because they have numerous desirable capabilities that keep them in demand among clients seeking this kind of logistics assistance. They prioritize strong customer service throughout the process and have robust networks that deliver trade show supplies and products to their destinations on time.
Convenient offerings such as real-time tracking give peace of mind, while these brands’ extensive experience helps current and potential customers feel comfortable about entrusting their shipments to them. Many entities exhibit prototypes or high-value products at these events, so they need partners that will treat the shipments with the care they deserve.
Working With a Trade Show Shipping Partner
Those who need specialists to get trade show displays and products to an upcoming event should begin contacting potential businesses well in advance. Having a clear idea of their needs, budgets and other details before these conversations occur will maximize transparency and understanding, increasing the chances of mutually beneficial outcomes.