If you've ever planned a trade show and felt like people were speaking a different language—you're not alone. Between logistics, booth builds, and show services, there’s a ton of insider lingo that doesn’t always come with a translation.

So let’s break down some of the most common (but lesser-known) trade show terms that could save your budget, timeline, and sanity.

What is Drayage and Why Is It So Expensive?

Drayage is the fee charged to move your materials from the loading dock to your booth space (and back). It includes storing your crates before and after the show—and yes, it can be surprisingly costly. It's calculated by weight and should always be factored into your pre-show budget.

What’s the Boneyard?

No, it’s not where old booths go to die. The boneyard is the area behind the scenes where your crates and skids are stored during the event. It’s where things go once your booth is set up—and where they return before teardown.

What Does FOB Mean on My Shipping Docs?

FOB stands for "Free on Board" and defines the point at which the responsibility for your shipment transfers from the seller to you. At trade shows, it matters because it affects who pays if damage occurs in transit.

What is an EAC and Do I Need One?

An Exhibitor Appointed Contractor (EAC) is a vendor you hire directly (like your own setup team or AV crew), rather than using the show’s official contractors. You’ll need to submit a form in advance and often provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI).

Why Do I Need a Sampling License?

If you're offering food or beverage samples at the show, many venues (and cities) require a  specific serving size rules.

What’s a Turnkey Booth?

A turnkey booth is a fully managed solution—design, production, setup, and teardown included. Great for brands who don’t want to deal with the logistics and just want to “show up and sell.”

What’s a Lead Retrieval System?

This is how you scan attendee badges and collect contact info. Most shows offer it as a rented device or mobile app. It makes follow-up faster and more accurate than collecting business cards.

What’s Rigging—and Why Can’t I Just Hang My Own Sign?

Rigging refers to the certified labor needed to hang signs, lights, or banners from the ceiling. It's a safety issue—and only approved teams can install rigging using designated rigging points.

What Does ‘Hard Wall’ Booth Mean?

Unlike fabric or pop-up booths, a hard wall booth uses solid panels. It gives a more polished, permanent look and is often used in island or premium booths.

What is DIM Weight and Why Is My Freight More Expensive?

DIM (Dimensional) Weight is used by carriers to charge based on how much space your shipment takes up—not just its weight. This often applies to bulky but lightweight items like displays and backwalls.

What’s a Header Graphic?

A header is the top portion of your booth display that often includes your logo, tagline, or call to action. It’s prime real estate—make sure it’s readable from a distance.

What is Kitting?

Kitting is the process of assembling multiple promotional items or materials into a branded package. Think influencer kits, VIP welcome boxes, or pre-show mailers. It’s especially effective when coordinated with your booth theme or campaign.

What’s the Service Desk For?

Located on-site at the show, the service desk is where you go to troubleshoot issues with electricity, rigging, Wi-Fi, or labor. Pro tip: stop here early—it gets busy fast.

What’s White Glove Delivery?

White glove delivery refers to specialized handling of fragile, valuable, or high-touch items—think custom displays, electronics, or high-end product samples. It often includes setup and placement too.

What’s a Booth Package?

Many 10x10s and inline spaces come with a booth package—usually backwall, a case to counter, cover, and a pop up banner. Check what’s included before ordering duplicates.

Wrap-Up: Talk the Talk, Rock the Booth

Knowing the language helps you communicate clearly with vendors, save money on services, and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re building your first 10x10 or managing a nationwide event rollout, a little lingo goes a long way.

Need help making your next trade show feel less overwhelming?
From swag and signage to shipping and setup—we’ve got you covered.