How Can We Help You?

Explore answers to our most frequently asked questions about exhibits, events, and experiences.

How Can We Help You?

Explore answers to our most frequently asked questions about exhibits, events, and experiences.

Freight & Logistics

Everything you need to know about shipping, drayage, and getting your materials to and from the show smoothly.

What is “material handling”?

Material Handling refers to the movement of your freight once it arrives at the show site or advance warehouse. It includes unloading your shipment, transporting it to your booth, storing empty crates during the show, and reloading freight at the close of the event.

What is “drayage”?

Drayage is another term for Material Handling - the service that covers the transport of your exhibit materials between the loading dock and your booth space. These services are typically managed by the show’s general service contractor and are billed based on the weight and handling requirements of your shipment.

Can I carry my own materials to my booth?

In some venues, exhibitors can hand-carry small items without assistance, but rules vary by facility and union jurisdiction. Hand-carried materials generally must be transported without motorized equipment and within a short distance from the loading area. Always check the exhibitor manual or contact 21st to confirm the regulations for your event.

What is the difference between small shipments and large shipments?

Small shipments are typically lightweight or compact enough to be moved easily by hand or cart, while large shipments arrive on pallets, skids, or in crates that require forklifts or dollies. Larger shipments often involve additional labor and equipment charges because of their handling requirements.

What are the advantages of “advance warehouse” shipments versus “direct” shipments?

Advance warehouse shipments are sent to a secure facility before the event and delivered to your booth before move-in begins - ensuring your freight is on-site and ready when setup starts. Direct shipments go straight to the show site during scheduled move-in days, which can save time in transit but may involve waiting or risk delays if schedules run behind.

What happens if I miss an advance order deadline?

If you miss the advance order deadline, your shipment may still be accepted at the show site as a direct shipment. However, it may incur additional handling or late fees, and on-site availability of labor or equipment could be limited.

Are there additional fees for late or on-site orders?

Yes. Orders placed after published deadlines or on-site during move-in are typically subject to higher rates to cover added administrative and scheduling costs. Submitting your orders early ensures the best pricing and helps guarantee timely service.

Exhibits & Design

Guidance on choosing the right exhibit type, from custom builds to modular and portable solutions.

How do you determine whether you need a custom build exhibit vs a rental exhibit?

The decision often comes down to budget, frequency of use, and design flexibility. A custom build is ideal when you want a fully branded, long-term asset designed specifically for your company’s needs. A rental exhibit provides a cost-effective, flexible option for one-time use or when you want to refresh your look frequently without long-term storage or maintenance costs.

What is the difference between a modular system exhibit vs a portable exhibit?

A modular system exhibit [link to 2.5] uses structural aluminum frames and panels that can be reconfigured for different booth sizes and layouts, offering a polished, professional appearance with reusable components. A portable exhibit [link to 2.6] is lighter and designed for easy transport and quick setup, often packed in cases that can ship by standard carrier or be checked as luggage.

Do you offer rental exhibits or custom builds for special events?

Yes. 21st Century Expo Group provides both rental and custom exhibit options for trade shows, corporate events, and brand activations. We help clients choose the right solution based on project goals, budget, and event schedule, ensuring that each space reflects the brand and engages attendees effectively.

Labor & On-Site Services

Answers about installation, dismantle, exhibitor services, and how 21st supports your team on-site.

What services can I order through 21st Century Expo Group?

21st provides a full range of exhibitor and event services, including material handling, labor for installation and dismantle, furniture, flooring, graphics, electrical coordination, cleaning, and on-site support. Our goal is to simplify your show experience by handling the details so you can focus on your show.

What is an Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor (EAC)?

An Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor is a company hired by an exhibitor to perform services such as installation, dismantle, or display work that would otherwise be handled by the show’s general service contractor. EACs must typically register with show management and provide certificates of insurance before working on site.

Is it necessary to use union labor for installation and dismantle at all shows?

Not always. Labor requirements vary by venue, city, and local regulations. Some convention centers require union labor for certain tasks, while others allow exhibitors or their staff to set up smaller booths on their own. 21st can help you understand the specific rules for your event location.

Can you provide on-site management or day-of event support?

Yes. 21st offers experienced on-site management and event coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly from setup to teardown. Our team provides real-time support, troubleshooting, and communication with venue staff and service providers throughout your event.

Events & Programs

Learn how 21st helps plan, manage, and deliver exhibits, events, and activations of every scale.

What services do you provide for an event?

21st offers end-to-end event services including planning, design, logistics, production, and on-site management. We coordinate layout, graphics, furnishings, lighting, and show services to create seamless, memorable experiences for attendees and clients alike.

Does 21st handle corporate events or activations outside of trade shows?

Yes. In addition to trade shows, 21st produces private and corporate events, community programs, and experiential activations. Our team applies the same level of precision and creativity to every project, whether it’s a gala, product launch, or branded environment.

What is the difference between Program Management and Project Management?

Program Management focuses on overseeing multiple shows or events as part of a long-term, strategic relationship - managing scheduling, budgets, branding consistency, and logistics across the full program. Project Management focuses on a single event or exhibit, ensuring every detail is executed on time, on budget, and according to plan.

Reach & Capabilities

See where we work, what we offer, and how we support clients across the U.S. and beyond.

What areas of the country do you work in?

21st Century Expo Group provides services nationwide, supporting clients in major convention centers, hotels, and event venues across the United States. Our team regularly manages shows and events in cities such as Washington D.C., Atlanta, Las Vegas, Chicago, Orlando, and beyond.

Do you provide international services?

Yes. While our primary operations are based in the U.S., 21st partners with trusted global networks to support international programs, exhibits, and events. We can help coordinate logistics, design, and show services to ensure consistency and success anywhere in the world.

Need a Hand With Your Next Project?

Let’s talk about how we can make your next exhibit or event effortless and unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a single show or managing a full program, our team is here to help every step of the way.