Why Trade Show Shipping Labels are Crucial for Your Next Conference

When it comes to trade shows, preparation is the most important part of a successful experience. Trade show shipping labels, or “Show Labels,” is one of those easily overlooked yet required elements. Amazingly enough, the majority of exhibitors don’t know what show labels are and why they‘re so crucial. It can lead to delays, lost shipments, or booths that never materialize. It‘s wasted money and time.
What Are Trade Show Labels?
Trade show shipping labels are directions provided by the organizer of the trade show. They indicate exactly where your booth or display is supposed to be delivered. They typically include:
-
The name of the event
-
Booth number
- Address for delivery (such as a receiving warehouse or the site of the event)
- Dates for delivery and setting up
Types of Trade Show Shipping Labels
There are usually two types of shipping labels:
- Advance Shipment Warehouse Shipping Labels: To ship well in advance of the show.
- Direct to Show Site Shipping Labels: To ship directly to the convention center the days leading up to the show.
Why Are Show Labels Important?
Why Are Show Labels Essential?
Without a show label, your display can get lost or delayed. Warehouse personnel and shipping companies require these labels. They help your exhibit end up where it should. Late or lost trade show materials will damage your company’s reputation. They will slow down your booth installation.
Key Details for Show Labels
- Essential Information: Expand on what must be included on the show label:
- Event Name: Clearly identify the trade show to avoid confusion at the warehouse.
- Booth Number: Specify your exact booth location for streamlined delivery.
- Exhibitor Name: Include the name of the person or company responsible for the booth.
- Delivery Dates and Times: Ensure labels include the permissible delivery window to avoid missed deadlines.
- Advance Warehouse or Direct to Show: Differentiate between shipments going to advance storage or directly to the event venue.
Common Pitfalls Without Proper Labels
- Delivery Delays: Share examples of how missing or incomplete labels lead to logistical nightmares.
- Added Costs: Discuss additional fees exhibitors might face if warehouses need to manually sort unlabeled shipments.
- Lost Booths or Materials: Emphasize how lost shipments can hurt ROI and brand presence at trade shows.
Benefits of Using APG Exhibits
- Label Assistance: Highlight how APG Exhibits provides hands-on support to clients, ensuring labels are accurate and affixed before shipping.
- Custom Solutions: Mention that APG Exhibits reviews every detail to match event requirements, ensuring smooth operations.
- Real-World Expertise: Share a brief client success story about how proper labeling saved the day.
Pro Tips for Exhibitors
- Double-Check Labels: Encourage exhibitors to review label accuracy before providing them to their vendor.
- Keep Copies Handy: Suggest printing extra copies in case of loss or damage during transit.
- Coordinate Early: Urge clients to contact their trade show organizer weeks ahead to secure the proper show labels.
How to Request a Show Label
- We have provided an example script clients can use to request labels from event organizers:
“Hello [Event Organizer],
I’m exhibiting at [Event Name] in [Booth Number] on [Dates]. Could you please send me the official show label and instructions for shipping my materials? Thank you!”
How We Make It Easy
At APG Exhibits, we understand the stress of preparing for trade shows. That’s why we ask our clients for show labels. It ensures that someone ships your materials correctly. Here’s a recent example of how we explained this to a client:
“Hi Peter, I’ve attached the show label from your show as an example of what I mean. Every show usually has something similar. It tells the warehouse where to send your booth when it arrives. This ensures nothing gets lost in their custody. We affix these to the boxes before we ship anything out.”
Our team works diligently to keep your event stress-free. When you work with us, we ensure every detail—like attaching the correct show label—is handled.
Tips for Providing Show Labels

#image_title
-
Ask for the Show Label Early: Contact your trade show organizer to obtain the label as soon as possible.
-
Double-check the information. The label must have the correct event name, booth number, and delivery address.
-
Share It with Your Vendor: Send the label to your display vendor. They need it to prepare and affix it properly.
Conclusion
Providing show labels is a small but vital step in ensuring a smooth trade show experience. At APG Exhibits, we aim to make your event hassle-free. We will handle all the logistics with precision.