PACK EXPO 2026 BOOTH GUIDE
🔹 Drayage & Material Handling at Pack Expo 2026
Even though Pack Expo 2026 includes basic drayage in your space rate, understanding how material handling works at McCormick Place is critical.
There is a major difference between shipping to the Advance Warehouse and shipping Direct to Show Site. Each option has specific labels, deadlines, and target move-in schedules.
If you miss your assigned Target Date, your freight may be classified as “off-target,” which can result in:
Loss of included drayage benefits
Overtime handling charges
Delays in booth delivery
Exhibitors should understand exactly how crates move from the truck dock to a 10×20 booth space, including marshaling yard procedures and dock assignments.
🔹 Trade Show Labor & Installation (I&D) in Chicago
At McCormick Place, the difference between a $0 labor invoice and a $3,000 labor invoice can be less than 30 minutes of improper setup.
Chicago operates under union labor rules. Understanding the Exhibitor Bill of Rights is essential.
In general:
Your employees may assemble lightweight portable displays
You may use basic hand tools
Certain electrical, rigging, or carpentry tasks require union labor
Ladders over specific heights may require supervision
Power tools may trigger labor requirements
A lack of clarity often results in surprise labor charges.
Exhibitors should review union jurisdiction guidelines before move-in.
🔹 Booth Etiquette & Staffing Strategy for 10×20 Spaces
Pack Expo aisles are crowded with engineers, operations managers, and decision-makers navigating heavy machinery displays.
In a 10×20 booth, positioning matters.
If two staff members stand at the front of the booth talking to each other, they effectively block 100% of the aisle approach.
Best practices include:
Keep the front of the booth visually open
Avoid internal staff conversations in traffic areas
Position team members at slight angles to invite engagement
Maintain clear sightlines from aisle to back wall graphics
Booth posture influences traffic flow more than exhibitors realize.
👉 How to attract leads at Trade Shows
🔹 Chicago-Specific Insider Preparation
Before exhibiting at McCormick Place, check whether your display provider offers a Chicago-specific planning guide.
Local suppliers often provide insights such as:
Best parking strategies near the North & South buildings
Freight pickup timing tips for the final night
Marshaling yard timing windows
Recommended move-out strategies to avoid congestion
The final night of Pack Expo is often the most stressful. Planning freight exit strategy can significantly reduce delays and overtime charges.
Is drayage really included at Pack Expo 2026?
Pack Expo 2026 includes standard drayage in the booth space rate for exhibitors who follow the official shipping procedures and target move-in schedule. However, missing deadlines or shipping incorrectly can result in “off-target” handling fees or overtime charges. Exhibitors should carefully review the exhibitor service manual to avoid losing included material handling benefits.
What is the difference between Advance Warehouse and Direct to Show Site shipping?
Advance Warehouse shipping allows freight to arrive early and be stored before move-in. Direct to Show Site shipping delivers freight directly to McCormick Place during assigned move-in times. Each option has different deadlines, labels, and check-in procedures. Missing your target delivery window can delay booth delivery and increase costs.
What happens if I miss my target move-in date?
If you miss your assigned target date at Pack Expo, your freight may be classified as “off-target.” This can lead to delays in delivery to your booth and may trigger overtime labor or additional material handling charges. Proper scheduling with your carrier is critical to avoid penalties.
Do I need union labor to set up my booth at McCormick Place?
McCormick Place operates under union labor guidelines. Many lightweight portable displays can be assembled by exhibitor personnel. However, electrical work, rigging, certain carpentry tasks, and some equipment may require union labor. Reviewing the Exhibitor Bill of Rights before move-in helps prevent unexpected labor charges.
Can my own employees assemble a 10x20 booth at Pack Expo?
In most cases, exhibitor employees may assemble portable displays using basic hand tools. Power tools, large structures, or certain installations may require union assistance. It is important to confirm specific guidelines in the exhibitor manual before move-in day.
How can I avoid high labor charges at Pack Expo?
To reduce labor costs, choose a lightweight portable or modular system designed for exhibitor setup. Arrive prepared with clear setup instructions, confirm what tools are permitted, and avoid last-minute electrical or structural changes that may require union assistance.
What is the most stressful part of Pack Expo move-out?
Move-out night at McCormick Place is often the most stressful period due to heavy traffic at loading docks and freight congestion. Planning your freight pickup window in advance and understanding marshaling yard procedures can significantly reduce delays and overtime charges.
How should staff stand in a 10x20 booth at Pack Expo?
In a 10×20 booth, keeping the front aisle open is essential. Staff should avoid standing directly at the entrance in closed conversations. Instead, position team members slightly inside the booth with open body language to encourage traffic flow and engagement.
Is Pack Expo worth it for a 10x20 exhibitor?
Pack Expo is one of the largest manufacturing and packaging events in North America. A well-designed 10×20 booth with proper staffing and planning can generate significant ROI. Success depends on preparation, clear messaging, and efficient booth operations.
Where can I find McCormick Place exhibitor rules?
Labor guidelines, shipping deadlines, and move-in procedures for Pack Expo are detailed in the official Pack Expo Exhibitor Service Manual. Because Pack Expo operates under its own show rules and appointed General Contractor, exhibitors must follow both the show-specific regulations and McCormick Place facility requirements. Reviewing the Exhibitor Service Manual early helps prevent unexpected labor charges, missed freight deadlines, or compliance issues during move-in and move-out.