What you need for a motor show

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Tips

• Allow one reception seat per active registration point, plus at least one tablet or card machine for each person processing arrivals. Keep a printer nearby if badges, receipts or exhibitor documents must be produced on site.
• Check every display area for power before ordering equipment. Use cable reels, extension cords and power strips with enough capacity for the planned layout, and keep spare cables available rather than relying on one connection.
• For a full opening day, plan roughly two to three drinks per visitor during the first hour, then one drink per person for each additional hour. Add extra reusable cups, coffee cups and pitchers because these are often used faster than expected.
• Match furniture to the booth plan instead of ordering by venue size. Each exhibitor may need a table, chairs or display wall, while high tables, bar stools, clothes racks and storage cabinets should be counted from the finalized floor plan.
• Buy or collect wristbands, trade show banners, flags and directional signage at least 3 days before the show. Pack them by area so the reception desk, exhibitor booths, entrances and parking route can be set up without searching through boxes.

Frequently asked questions

What should I buy for a motor show?

Plan for booth furniture, display walls, storage, reception equipment, power accessories, payment and registration devices, signage, wristbands, catering supplies and serving items. Confirm the quantities after the exhibitor count and floor plan are final.

How many chairs and tables do I need for a motor show?

Count one table and the required chairs for each exhibitor space, then add seating for reception, catering and visitor areas. Finalize this count at least 7 days before setup so missing furniture can still be arranged.

How many drinks and cups do I need for a motor show?

Use two to three drinks per person for the first hour, followed by about one drink per person per additional hour. Add at least 10% extra reusable cups, coffee cups and serving pitchers for breakage, spills and unexpected attendance.

When should I prepare the motor show shopping list?

Create the first list 3 to 4 weeks before the show, when exhibitor numbers and venue access are known. Recheck it 7 days before the event and complete shopping or collection no later than the day before setup.

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