Do I really need to hire Union Labor at the Javits Center for New York Trade Show Exhibiting?

The Javits Center in New York City is a union facility. The rules state that if you can carry your exhibit materials into the facility in one trip and set it up in less than one hour you can do so yourself. That's what the written rules state. The shop steward/floor manager on duty that day may try and require you to hire union labor even if your exhibit is a portable system. However, in any case you will still need to hire union electricians to plug in any electrical connections (lights, computers, etc).

Can I bring my own trade show marketing materials into the Javits Center?

If you can so do in one trip you can carry your own materials in. If you pull up to the curb on 11th avenue and try and make multiple trips unloading a volume of material you will be stopped and required to hire labor to deliver the materials to your exhibit space.

Can you help me with my exhibitor manual?

We certainly can. SkyGEM offers support to complete the "show book" manual and coordinate any/all show logistics. This is a fee-based service that starts with a base price of $500 or $75/page, but varies on the size of the exhibit.

What is drayage?

Drayage is an internal fee to cover freight from the loading dock to your exhibit space. The charge is calculated by the dimensional (dim) weight (height x length x width and actual lbs.)

How can I set a realistic budget for my trade show?

Industry standards range from $800-$1200 per linear foot for portable/modular exhibits to $1500-$2000 for traditional custom fabrication. In addition you need to allow for many other costs. Show space, staff travel, promotion, etc. Contact us for a comprehensive budget worksheet.

Shipping Costs are killing me, how can I lower them?

The first step is to analyze what you?re shipping and send only what you truly need. Are you sending unnecessary collateral material and premiums? Can you reduce costs by using a lightweight exhibit structure? Can you ship ground versus overnight, and ship to the pre-show warehouse? These are a few of the major things that can reduce your costs.

I have an international trade show coming up, can you help?

The simple answer is "Yes." SkyGEM is your one-stop-shop for international exhibiting. Skyline?s international network of offices is prepared to support your program with local, trained and dedicated labor support staff. We can design locally and handle all your administrative, shipping and logistical needs with our SkyGEM staff. We will coordinate with the international offices on your behalf.

How do I get started in trade show marketing?

A plan is essential.  By identifying target markets and trade show marketing opportunities a plan can begin to take shape.  SkyGEM can offer you our years of experience in New York trade show marketing and event marketing services.