Budgeting for a trade show may seem like an overwhelming task, considering all the variables and details to plan for. With rising costs and economic uncertainty, it is crucial to budget strategically. However, there is a straightforward equation that you can use to get a rough estimate! Checkout our All-In-One Trade Show Budget Guide below!
Design: 5%
Designing your exhibit and art can be time-consuming and might require outside help. Whether you do your design in-house or with a third party, your design hours can add up quickly. Setting aside 5% of your trade show budget for design is crucial, as it ensures your booth makes a lasting impression compared to your competitors, attracting more visitors and potential customers. Learn about how we can help you design here!
Booth Space: 23%
Choosing your booth space in the exhibit hall can be a challenging task. The size, location, and type of booth space can all impact the cost of renting. While this percentage can fluctuate based on the show, venue, or booth size, it is generally safe to allocate 23% of your budget for renting booth space. While we don’t reserve the booth spaces for clients, we can be a tool to get space advice from.
Shipping: 11%
Shipping to trade shows can become expensive quickly, depending on various factors. These variables can include the weight of your crates, the number of crates your booth needs, how far the crates are being shipped, and even the type of facility they’re being shipped to! Since trade show check-ins can be chaotic and challenging, shipping companies often charge a premium for this service. Despite all these changing variables, you can be confident in allocating 11% of your budget for shipping.
Storage and Asset Management: 7%
Even if you own a smaller booth or have plenty of storage space available, it may be worth investing in a storage and asset management program for your booth. When you enroll in our asset management program we photograph, catalog, and track all your exhibit materials in our online portal, so you always know where your assets are, what condition they are in, and if they are available to use. We also have a thorough check-in and repair process, so your assets are always ‘show ready’.
Considering all other aspects of your budget, you’d be safe setting aside 7% of your budget to store your booth somewhere. Learn about our TurnKey program here!
Show Services: 18%
Unfortunately, ordering show services can be pricier than most people realize. Budgeting 18% of your total budget into services such as I&D, material handling, flooring, furniture, cleaning, and electrical is a safe move. Juggling multiple vendors can be tricky! Check out our TurnKey program here, which is a comprehensive solution that handles everything for you.
Promo: 7%
To maximize foot traffic throughout your booth, it’s crucial to do some marketing beforehand, letting people know you’ll be at the show. Pre-show marketing may include paid advertisements, business cards, and brochures. During the show, it is essential to have printed materials on hand, including giveaway items and promotional literature. After the show, don’t forget to use a little budget to nurture and engage your new leads!
Promoting the show, either before, during, or after, is a crucial step in getting leads. Because of this, it is essential to allocate 7% of your budget for the promotional aspect. Read more about how you should be marketing your booth here!
Travel: 11%
Staffing your booth is a hidden cost that some exhibitors often overlook when budgeting. The rule of thumb in the industry is to have one staff member for every 50 square feet of your booth. While the price varies by show location, this should include plane tickets or mileage, hotels, food, cars/parking, and sometimes labor or travel bonuses for each employee. It’s safe to say that 11% of your budget should go towards staffing your booth.
Exhibit: 16%
Just like the other categories, the cost of your trade show exhibit will vary based on many factors. The price will vary depending on whether you rent or purchase your booth, the size of your space, and the level of impression you want to make on people. Allocating 16% of your budget is a safe range for an outstanding booth. Check out our online gallery here!
Other: 2%
Trade shows can be unpredictable, so having a catch-all budget for random, last-minute expenses can provide a sense of security and preparedness. Saving 2% of your total budget is more than sufficient for unplanned expenses, ensuring you’re prepared for any unexpected costs that may arise and feel secure in your budgeting strategy.
When preparing a trade show budget, it is essential to set aside sufficient funds for all anticipated expenses. At OnePoint Exhibits, we can help you properly budget for most of your trade show expenses, including your exhibit, design, shipping, and show services. Instead of having to manage several separate invoices, you can focus on just one line item: OnePoint Exhibits. Contact us here to discuss your exhibit needs!
