Your Tradeshow Prep Checklist

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Be ready. Be Confident. Make an impact.

A successful event starts long before the doors open, and that’s where a solid tradeshow prep checklist makes all the difference. Whether it’s your first show or your fiftieth, preparing ahead helps keep your team organized, your booth running smoothly, and your presence unforgettable. This checklist will guide you through everything you need before, during, and after the show so you can be confident and make a lasting impact.

Before the Show

Set goals	Define what success looks like: sales leads, product demos, networking, or brand exposure.
Know your audience	Research attendees, their industries, and what problems your products solve for them.
Design your booth presence	Tailor displays, signage, and messaging to the event and audience.
Book and confirm services	Electric, flooring, Wi-Fi, furniture, and any special requirements.
Ship materials early	Avoid last-minute delays by sending booth items and products in advance.
Create a shareable master file	Provide all of your key info in one document: contacts, attendees, schedules, booth layout, shipping details, tracking numbers, etc.
Train your team	Prior to show kick-off, have a booth meeting to review talking points, product details, booth flow, lead capture process, and daily schedules.

Packing List: Booth Essentials

Packing tape (multiple rolls)
Scissors and/or box cutter
Zip ties, Velcro strips, command hooks
Extension cords and power strips
Cleaning wipes and cloths
Basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, small hammer)
Extra pens and markers
Power banks for devices
Notebooks or a note app for tracking leads and ideas

Packing List: Emergency Kit

Adhesive Remover (for sticky residue)
Batteries (various sizes)
Extra signage hardware (clips, hooks, tape)
First aid basics
Snacks and water bottles (for long days)
Hand sanitizer
Mints or gum

At the Show

Arrive early	Set up and troubleshoot before attendees arrive.
Walk the booth	Ensure a clear and welcoming visitor flow.
Store personal items	Keep extra supplies and belongings in a designated storage area.
Hold a daily team huddle	Review priorities, talking points, and updates together.
Capture content	Take photos and videos for social media and future reference.
Gather insights	Track attendee feedback, booth performance, and walk the show for competitor insights and inspirations.

After the Show

Organize & distribute leads	Follow up promptly to keep momentum going.
Review team notes	Highlight successes and identify areas for improvement.
Refine your process	Update your checklist for next time; each show runs smoother the more you refine it.

Preparation is the difference between just showing up and truly standing out. With this checklist in hand, you’ll have the tools, tips, and confidence to make every event a success.

Knowing both the weight capacity and the lifting moment is crucial for ensuring that your truck and crane setup are suited for the specific tasks you need to perform. Whether you’re lifting materials close to the crane or working at a distance, understanding these ratings will help you make an informed decision. 

Link to checklist. 

Bring it to your next show, check items off as you go, and watch your booth presence shine. And don’t forget, come check out our booth at our next tradeshow. Events | Reading Truck