Introduction

For many businesses, trade shows offer a simple and convenient way to target relevant buyers. When attending a trade show, the greatest challenge can be rising above the visual roar of neighboring booths. You need to convey your message forcefully and effectively in just the few seconds that someone spends walking by your booth.

Portable trade show displays offer a cost‐effective way to make such a statement. Portable exhibits, as their name suggests, can be packed into cases that can be checked onto airlines or transported via standard ground shipping services.

In some cases, this portability allows you to bring in and set up the displays on your own, avoiding the added complexity and expense of professional movers and builders. Of course you’ll have to be aware of varying union rules: many halls require that union laborers be used to transport booths and equipment.

With a few simple additions to highlight your company name and products, the right trade show booth can create a lasting first impression.

This BuyerZone Trade Show Displays Buyer’s Guide will help you understand the various types of trade show booths and how much you should expect to spend, as well as provide some tips on how to be a more successful trade show exhibitor.

Table of contents

Types of display booths

Trade show booth design

Pricing

Choosing a vendor

Buying tips

Pricing guidelines

You can find a trade show booth for almost any budget, from a simple tabletop display for $500 to a custom island for $25,000.

Here are some examples of what you can expect to pay for some common types of displays, including basic graphics.