Dictionary
We
present this glossary of trade show and exhibit
industry terms for those who may be new to
trade shows or who don’t
want to appear uninformed when dealing with experienced
trade show people. This glossary is for
your benefit, there will be no quiz at the end,
although we think you may enjoy the last few
entries.
A
A/V — Audio/visual
support such as television monitors, radios,
or taped music.
A/V Contractor — Supplier
of audio/visual equipment.
Accent Lighting –– Directional
lighting used to highlight a particular area
or object to draw attention to that portion
of the field of view.
Access Panel - removable
panel or section of exhibit to permit access
to lamps, projector mechanisms, etc.
Acoustical Tile — composition
board made into squares and placed upon the
ceiling or walls to reduce sound.
Acrylic — the family
of clear, color, and translucent thermoplastic
resins such as Plexiglas or Lucite.
Advance Order - an order
for show services sent to the service contractor
before move-in. Compare FLOOR ORDER.
Advance Rates - fees associated
with advance orders, which typically include
discounts when paid in advance.
Advertising Specialties - promotional
items with a firm's name and/or marketing message.
Air Cargo - any property
carried, or to be carried, in an aircraft,
excluding passenger baggage.
Air Freight - materials shipped
via airplane.
Airway Bill - also
called AIR CONSIGNMENT NOTE. A bill of lading
issued by the airline that covers both domestic
and international flights transporting goods
to a specified destination. Technically, it
is a non-negotiable instrument of air transport
that serves as a receipt for the shipper, indicating
that the carrier has accepted the goods listed
therein and obligates itself to carry the consignment
to the airport of destination according to
specified conditions. Compare BILL OF LADING,
INLAND BILL OF LADING, OCEAN BILL OF LADING,
THROUGH BILL OF LADING.
Aisle - area between booths
for audience traffic movement.
Aisle Carpet - carpeting
in the aisles.
Aisle Signs - signs, usually
suspended, indicating aisle numbers or letters.
Ambient Light - uncontrolled
and unintentional illumination.
Animation - movement of either
light or mechanical action.
Anvil Case - reinforced molded
plastic case, normally with foam cut-outs for
transporting fragile materials.
Applique - any applied item
typically vinyl or paper backed with adhesive.
Arch — An exhibit
display ceiling or entryway that spans two
points.
Arrival Notice –– A
document issued by railroads, airlines and
maritime services identifying the shipment
is sent to the consignee or their agent and
informing consignee/agent of cargo’s
arrival.
Ash Stands — Stands
that hold ashtrays. Also known as SMOKERS.
Assembly — The process
of erecting display component parts into a
complete exhibit.
ATA Carnet — See CARNET.
At-Site — Location
of exhibit or project. Also called ON-SITE.
Attendance — Number
of people at show or exhibit.
Attendee — One
who attends an exposition. May also be a
Delegate or Visitor, but should not be used
for "exhibitor".
Attendee Brochure — Direct
mail piece sent to current and prospective
attendees, that promotes the benefits of attending
a specific show. Compare EXHIBITOR PROSPECTUS.
Audit — An independent
verification of attendance figures submitted
by an exposition's producers.
Auditorium-Style
Set-Up — hairs
only are set up in rows facing a head table,
stage, or speaker. Variations in set up are
semicircular and v-shaped
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B
Back Light - A light source
that illuminates any transparent or translucent
material from behind.
Back-Lit Panels - Three-dimensional
structure (or box) with lights placed behind
a transparent image.
Backloader - Truck that loads
from back opening door.
Backwall - Panel arrangement
at rear of booth area, typically made of cloth,
plastic, or other materials.
Backwall Exhibit - An exhibit
that is back to back with another exhibit or
against a building wall.
Badge - An identification
tag worn by participants at an event. At a
trade show, badges usually are color-coded to
identify exhibitors and indicate attendees¹ job
function.
Baffle - partition to control
light, air, sound, or traffic flow.
Baling Wire - Thin gauged wire
often used in display work for fastening or tying
objects.
Ballast - power
supply used with arc or discharge lamps to control
current through the bulb.
Ball Lights - stationary
adjustable lights found on older model exhibits.
Bank Pins - pins
used for hanging booth ID signs, alternative
to S-hooks.
Banjo (Fabric) - type of lightweight
cloth used for backdrops.
Banner ‹ A suspended
decorative or communicative panel, usually a
temporary cloth or paper structure.
Banquet-Style Set-Up ‹ Typically
a grouping of rounds set in such a way as to
facilitate the serving of food, most often a
hexagonal or square pattern.
Barn Doors An
accessory that fits onto the front of a light
source consisting of four hinged flaps used to
control light spill.
Base ‹ Steel floor
support piece for upright post.
Batten 1² x
3² pieces of wood (or 1² x 4²)
which can be used to fasten drape or other
material
Bill of Lading (B/L or BOL) ‹ A
document that establishes the terms of a contract
between a shipper and a transportation company
under which freight is to be moved between
specified points for a specified charge. Usually
prepared by the shipper on forms issued by the
carrier, it serves as a document of title, a
contract of carriage, a receipt of goods, and
that the carrier has assumed responsibility for
the cargo until it is delivered. Also
see AIR WAYBILL, INLAND BILL OF LADING, OCEAN
BILL OF LADING, THROUGH BILL OF LADING.
Blanket Wrap ‹ Non-crated
freight shipped via van line covered with protective
blankets or padding.
Bleed ‹ Area beyond usable
section of blowup or copy block that allows for
trimming or wrapping; when an image runs to one
or more edges of a substrate or medium.
Blow-Up ‹ Photographic
enlargement.
Blower ‹ General term
for device to circulate or remove warm air from
restricted areas, i.e., projector housings.
Blueprint ‹ A mechanical
drawing of booth layout, construction, and
specifications. Also
see SET UP DRAWING.
Board of Directors Set-Up ‹ Tables
are set in rectangle or oval shape with chairs
on both sides and ends.
Bonded Warehouse ‹ A
warehouse authorized by customs authorities for
storage of goods on which payment of duties is
deferred until the goods are removed.
Boneyard ‹ A facility
storage area where empty crates are stored
during exposition. This area may be located
within the exposition hall in an unused portion
of the floor. Also known as DUMP.
Booking ‹ An arrangement
with a company for use of facilities, goods or
services.
Boom Lift ‹ A
motorized platform used to lift people to a
given height. ALSO KNOWN AS SNORKEL,
FLYING PLATFORM, SCISSORS LIFT, CONDOR, or
KNUCKLE BOOM.
Booth ‹ One
or more standard units of exhibit space. A
standard unit is generally known to be a 10¹ by
10¹ space. However, if an exhibitor
purchases multiple units side by side or back
to back, the combined space is still referred
to as a ³booth².
Booth Area ‹ The amount
of floor space assigned to and occupied by an
exhibitor.
Booth Number ‹ The
number designated by show management for each
exhibitor's space.
Booth Personnel ‹ Staff
assigned to represent an exhibitor in their assigned
space.
Booth Sign ‹ Sign
usually stating name, city, state, and booth
number of exhibitor.
Booth Size ‹ Dimensions
of assigned space.
Boothmanship (Exhibitorship) ‹ The
booth staff's necessary skills to effectively
present an exhibiting company's message. Includes
body language, opening line and message presentation.
Border Chaser ‹ Programmed
lighting around signs.
Break Terminal ‹ Location
at which common carriers separate consolidated
freight.
Breakdown ‹ To dismantle
or prepare for packing and shipping at the
end of an event. Also to itemize estimates,
invoices, and costs.
Breakout Rooms ‹ Small
meeting rooms set up for a group within an event
as opposed to a plenary or general session.
Breakpoint ‹ Level at
which discounts are allowed for volumes of freight.
Brushed Finish ‹ Finish
primarily on aluminum or steel achieved by
rubbing with wire brush or steel wool to achieve
a "matte" quality.
Buck-boost transformer This
is a transformer used to convert electrical
voltage either up or down, (such as 208v to
220v, or 240v to 220v).
Build-Up ‹ System of
programming flasher to light lamps in cumulative
sequence with time intervals between.
Bullet Catch ‹ Device
for holding hinged door closed.
Bullnose ‹ Technique
for finishing raw edge with half round molding,
or shaping to half round.
Burned In Copy ‹ Written
copy appearing on photographs.
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C
CEIR — See CENTER
FOR EXHIBITION INDUSTRY RESEARCH.
CEMA (Computer
Event Marketing Association) — Trade
association for firms exhibiting in computer-related
events.
COD — Cash on Delivery;
Collection on Delivery.
CTSM —Certified Trade
Show Marketer.
CWT — Abbreviation
for hundred weight. A weight measurement for
exhibit freight (100 pounds). This is
the unit of measure used for on-site freight
handling.
Cable Pick — Rigging
point or working line used to lift overhead
equipment above an exhibit space or exhibit.
Call –– SEE
Labor Call.
Call-Out — Notation
on drawings or exhibits of special significance,
i.e., finish, edge, color, detail, or features.
Camera Ready –– Artwork
ready for shooting or reproduction.
Canadian Customs
Invoice –– Document
required by Canadian Customs identifying shipper,
seller, consignee, terms, date of shipment,
material being sold/shipped, classification
code, quantity, unit and total prices. Additional
information required on the invoice depends
on shipper and consignee arrangements.
Cancellation or
Interruption Insurance — Insurance
that protects a show organizer against financial
loss or expenses incurred when contractually
specified "perils" necessitate canceling or
relocating a show, or cause a reduction in
attendance.
Canopy — An overhead
cover or scrim for projected images.
Cantilever — A horizontal
member extending well beyond its vertical support.
Canvas — Material
used for outdoor banners, dressing, or decoration.
Cap Nut — A decorative
nut, usually plated, to secure end of threaded
bolt where finished appearance is desired;
sometimes called acorn nut.
Cap Strip — Piece of
finished material used to cover end framing.
Carnet — An international
customs document, issued by authorized Chambers
of Commerce, permitting the holder to carry
or send merchandise temporarily into certain
foreign countries (for display, demonstration,
or similar purposes) without the need for bonds,
deposits/guarantees, duties or other Customs
formalities. .
Carpenter —A trades
person that has served a 4 year apprenticeship
to journeyman, used in the installation of
exhibits and displays in most cities.
Carpet Tape — Double-faced
tape used to adhere edge of carpet to floor
or to repair carpet tears.
Carriage Bolt — A bolt
with a square shank next to the head to allow
tightening in wood without tools.
Carrier — Transportation
contractor moving freight (van line, common
carrier, rail car, airplane).
Cartage — 1. Fee
charged for transporting freight between destinations.
2. Short-distance hauling of exhibit properties.
Cartage Agent –– Ground
service operator who provides pickup and delivery
in areas not served directly by air carrier.
Caterer — Another
term for a food service vendor. Often used
to apply to vendors who specialize in banquets
and theme parties. Typically an exclusive contractor
within a facility.
Ceiling Decor — Suspended
decorations to enhance appearance of hall or
create a more intimate environment by "lowering" the
ceiling.
Center for Exhibition
Industry Research (CEIR) A membership
organization representing the entire exhibition
industry, whose mission is to promote the
growth of the exhibition industry through
research, information and communication,
and to position exhibitions as primary marketing
tools. Formerly known as the TRADE SHOW BUREAU.
Certificate of
Inspection — A
document certifying that merchandise (such
as perishable goods) was in good condition
immediately prior to its shipment.
Certificate of
Insurance — A
basic element of an effective risk management
program. Serves as evidence of the financial
capability of an indemnitor who has executed
an agreement in favor of an organization. Most
show organizers require a certificate of insurance
from every exhibitor, just as most facilities
require one from show organizers.
Certificate of
Origin — A
document, required by certain foreign countries
for tariff purposes, certifying as to the country
of origin of specified goods.
Certified Exposition
Manager (CEM) — An
exposition management professional, as officially
designated by the International Association
of Exposition Management.
Certified Manager
of Exhibits (CME) — An
exhibit industry professional, as officially
designated by the Trade Show Exhibitors Association.
Chain Hoist Motor — Motor
that pulls a chain through itself in order
to lift a load. In most concert applications,
the motor has been modified to enable it to
climb up the chain rather than to pull the
chain up to itself. Widely used to suspend
structure, signs, and lighting in the convention
industry.
Chamfer — Technique
of reducing sharp corner of lumber by sanding
or machining edge.
Channel — Generally,
any material milled or extruded in a continuous "U" shape.
Chaser— Electrical
device to accomplish rapid sequential lighting.
Cherry Picker — See
HIGH JACKER.
Chevron — 1. Type
of cloth used for backdrops. 2. Seating pattern
where chairs are arranged so that they angle
towards the center of the room so that attendees
can sit facing the speaker or screen.
Clamp-on Fixture — Electrical
fixture with clamp device for attaching to
display.
Classroom –– Tables
are lined up in a row, one behind the other
on each side of the center aisle with chairs
facing the head table
Clean Bill of Lading — A
receipt for goods issued by a carrier with
an indication that the goods were received
in apparent good order and condition, without
damages or other irregularities. Compare FOUL
BILL OF LADING.
Clean Draft — A draft
to which no documents have been attached.
Column — A pillar
in an exposition facility that supports the
roof or other structures. Usually denoted on
FLOOR PLAN as a solid square.
Commercial Invoice — An
itemized list of goods shipped, usually included
among an exporter's COLLECTION PAPERS.
Commission Agent — See
PURCHASING AGENT.
Common Carrier — An
individual, partnership, or corporation that
transports persons or goods for compensation.
For exhibit materials, usually accepts only
crated or cased goods and consolidates freight
of more than one customer into one shipment
headed for a particular location.
Concealed Damage –– Damage
to merchandise that is not discovered until
the shipment is unpacked.
Consignee — Person
to whom goods are shipped.
Consignment — Delivery
of merchandise from an exporter (the consignor)
to an agent (the consignee) under agreement
that the agent sell the merchandise for the
account of the exporter. The consignor retains
title to the goods until the consignee has
sold them. The consignee sells the goods for
commission and remits the net proceeds to the
consignor.
Consignor — Person
who sends freight.
Consolidate — Shipping
freight to a central depot where several loads
bound for the same destination are put together
before being shipped to that destination. Freight
that is consolidated is often intended for
more than one consignee.
Construction Drawing — A
drawing that gives detailed diagrams and instructions
for building an exhibit.
Consular Declaration — A
formal statement, made to the consul of a foreign
country, describing goods to be shipped.
Consular Invoice — A
document, required by some foreign countries,
describing a shipment of goods and showing
information such as the consignor, consignee,
and value of the shipment. Certified by a consular
official of the foreign country, it is used
by the country's customs officials to verify
the value, quantity, and nature of the shipment.
Consumer Show — An
exposition, of what are generally known as
consumer products, that is open to the public.
Typically, an admission fee is charged. Also
known as PUBLIC SHOW or GATE SHOW.
Container Detention –– A
charge that is assessed when the container
is removed from the carrier’s control
but is not returned within the allowable free
time. ALSO KNOWN AS PIER DEMURRAGE.
Contracting — A system
in which all or part of the product or the
work to be done is sublet to contractors.
Contractor — An individual
or organization providing services to a trade
show and/or its exhibitors. May be Official
(appointed by show management) or Independent
(appointed by exhibitor). Typically refers
to either a general service contractor or specialty
contractor.
Convention — An assembly
of delegates, representatives, and members
of an organization convened for a common purpose.
Convention & Visitors
Bureau — An
organization that promotes a city’s facilities
and attractions to tourists and business travelers,
and helps show managers and meeting planners
with event preparation.
Convention Center — A
facility where expositions are held. Also known
as EXPOSITION CENTER, FACILITY or HALL. May
be purpose built or converted; municipally
or privately owned.
Copy Negative — Film
negative made from glossy print for production
of additional prints.
Copy Panel — Item or
area for graphic communication.
Corner Booth — An exhibit
space with exposure on at least two aisles.
Some shows charge premium prices for these
booths.
Corporate Exhibit - An institutional
exhibit telling the story of the company without
intentionally marketing a specific product
or service.
Corporate Show — A
show produced by a corporation that is not
a show management company. Exhibits are limited
to products and services of that corporation
or its arketing partners; no competitors participate.
Also known as a private show.
Costumer — Hat and
coat rack.
Count — 1. Total
number of attendees for a given period; 2.
Total number of exhibitors for a given period.
Counter — A working
cabinet for display, demonstration, or registration.
Countermount — Technique
for mounting material to rear of panel equal
to weight and consistency to face mounted material.
This prevents warping.
Countersink — Technique
of recessing heads of screws and nails below
the surface.
Cover Plate — A protective,
removable panel used with self-contained exhibits
in transit.
C-Print — A type
of color reproduction print.
Craft Union — A labor
organization, the membership in which is restricted
to individuals possessing or working at a specific
skill or trade, such as electricians, carpenters,
or plumbers. See UNION.
Craftsperson — A
skilled individual who provides actual services
on the show floor. Usually a unionized worker.
Crate — Typically
a wooden container that holds exhibit property
for shipment.
Crated Exhibit –– An
exhibit that is transported from show to show
in crates (small to huge wooden boxes). Crates
make handling the exhibit easier, and minimize
damage during material handling. In most cases,
individual pieces are jigged in place within
the crates. Make sure all jig material is left
in the empty crates.
Crating List — Names
the contents of what is enclosed inside a crate,
i.e., exhibit pieces, carpet.
Crop Mark — Indication
on original art or photo defining area that
is to be reproduced.
Cross Aisle — An aisle
at a right angle to a main aisle.
Cross Bar — Rod used
in draping or as a support brace.
Cube Taps –– Three
way plugs for combining electrical cords. (Be
warned, these are outlawed by fire code in
some facilities.) SEE ALSO TRI TAPS.
Cubic Content — The
use of exhibit properties in the airspace over
the entire leased area above a height of eight
feet or more.
Custom Exhibit — An
exhibit created to be a unique solution to
the specific requirements of the user.
Customs Broker — An
individual or firm licensed to enter and clear
goods through Customs. ALSO KNOWN AS CUSTOMHOUSE.
Customs — The authorities
designated to regulate the flow of goods to
and from a country and to collect duties levied
by a country on imports and exports. The term
also applies to the procedures involved in
such collection.
Cut-Out — Profile
cut display item, such as letters or photos.
Cut Rate — Cost
per "hundred
weight."
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D
Dais — A
raised platform on which the head table is
placed (pronounced "day-iss").
Damage Report — A report
submitted by an exhibitor to a freight company
or drayage contractor itemizing damage to shipped
goods.
Dangerous Goods –– Articles
or substances capable of posing a significant
risk to health, safety or property when transported
and which are classified according to the most
current editions of ICAO Technical Instructions
for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods and
IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.
Dark Day — A day on
which a facility or hall has no events booked.
Date Protection — A
guarantee that the dates a show organizer has
selected for an event in a specific facility
are reserved for that organizer.
Dead Man — Temporary
post used during installation to help support
the weight of an overhead structure.
Dead Time — Time when
a worker is unable to work because of factors
beyond his or her control and during which
he or she is paid. Also called ALLOWED TIME,
DOWN TIME, IDLE TIME, or WAITING TIME.
Declared Value — Shipper's
stated value of entire shipment in terms of
dollars, or the purpose of determining charges
or establishing the limit of carrier’s
liability for loss, damage or delay.
Decorating — Dressing
up a facility or exhibit with carpet, draping,
plants, etc.
Decorator —1.The
skilled craftsperson that provides installation
and dismantle and booth and hall dressing services
for a trade show and/or its exhibitors. SEE
INSTALLER. 2. The union that represents decorators,
ALSO KNOWN AS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF PAINTERS
AND ALLIED TRADES (IUPAT). 3. The official
service contractor for an exhibition. ALSO
KNOWN AS GENERAL SERVICE CONTRACTOR.
Deferred Air Freight — Long
haul air freight that waits for available cargo
space, usually one to two days, at a reduced
rate.
Demographics — Characteristics
that help create a profile of exhibitors and
attendees. May include company location, job
function, purchase budget, or purchase intentions.
Demonstrators — Persons
hired to illustrate, demonstrate, or explain
products.
Demurrage — Excess
time taken for loading or unloading a vessel.
Demurrage refers only to situations in which
the charterer or shipper, rather than the vessel's
operator, is at fault.
Density — Pounds
per cubic foot. The cubic footage of loose
articles or pieces, or packaged articles of
a rectangular, elliptical or square shape on
one plane shall be determined by multiplying
the greatest straight line dimensions of length,
width and depth in inches, including all projections,
and dividing the total by 1728 (to obtain cubic
feet). The density is the weight of the article
divided by the cubic feet thus obtained.
Deposit — Money required
in advance of the use of space or prior to
provision of services.
Design — Graphic
and pictorial representation of an idea.
Detail — Construction
drawing for fabrication (or specific construction
feature).
Die Cut — Method
of producing repetitive cutout shapes in quantity.
Diffuser — An open
grid or a solid translucent plastic to soften
or conceal light sources.
Dim Weight — Length
x width x height divided by 194 for domestic
shipment, or divided by 166 for international
shipments.
Dimmer — A device
to control light intensity.
Diorama — Dimensional
representation in forced perspective.
Directory — A catalog
of basic information about the show, including
exhibitors, floor plan, and schedule of events.
Also called program.
Disconnect — Device
to permit easy and rapid separation of electrical
components.
Dismantle — 1. To
take to pieces or apart. 2. Teardown of exhibit.
Dispatcher — Person
responsible for scheduling and routing freight,
labor, etc.
Display Builder — 1.
Company that fabricates displays. SEE EXHIBIT
HOUSE 2. Craftsperson that builds displays.
Display Case — Showcase
for displaying products.
Display Rules and
Regulations — A
set of specifications for exhibit construction
endorsed by major exhibit industry associations.
Also the set of rules for an exposition that
are used by management.
Dispute — A conflict
or difference of opinion between an employer
and a union or between an employer and employees
over some phase of their relationship. Usually
refers to a serious controversy that threatens
or causes a work stoppage or that is submitted
to an arbitrator or government agency for settlement.
Dissolve — See FADE.
Distributor Show — A
show produced by a distributor at which exhibitors
are the manufacturers of products sold by the
distributor and attendees are the distributor’s
customers.
Dock — A place where
freight is loaded onto and taken from vessels
or vehicles.
Dock Receipt — A receipt
issued by an ocean carrier to acknowledge receipt
of a shipment at the carrier's dock or warehouse
facilities. When delivery of a foreign shipment
is completed, the dock receipt is surrendered
to the vessel operator or his agent and serves
as the basis for the preparation of the Ocean
Bill of Lading. Also see WAREHOUSE RECEIPT.
Dolly — Any of several
kinds of low, flat, wheeled frames for transporting
heavy objects.
Donkey Dick – A
metal pole placed on the front of a forklift
for carrying rolls of carpet.
Double-Decker — A
two-storied exhibit. Also called MULTIPLE STORY
EXHIBIT.
Double-Faced Panel — Finished
on both sides.
Double-Faced Tape — Tape
used to adhere carpet to floor, signs, or panels.
Doubletime — Premium
pay, which is double the base rate of hourly
wage.
Draper — Person who
installs drapes, pleats, and special decor.
Draping — Decorating
with drapes.
Drawback — A refund
of duties paid on imported goods that is provided
at the time of their re-exportation.
Drayage Delivery of exhibit
materials from the dock to assigned space,
removing empty crates, returning crates at
end of show for re-crating, and delivering
materials back to dock for carrier loading.
NOW KNOWN AS MATERIAL HANDLING.
Drayage Contractor –– SEE
OFFICIAL SERVICE CONTRACTOR.
Dressing the Exhibits — Placing
graphics, plants, literature, and applying
any finishing touches to the display.
Drop Slot — Opening
in countertop to receive cards.
DT Labor — Work performed
on overtime and charged at twice the published
rate.
Duct Tape –– Fabric
tape that comes in various colors to match
carpet and drape.
Dummy — Mock-up,
non-operative.
Duplex Outlet — Double
electrical outlet., otherwise a common household
outlet.
Duty — A
tax imposed on imports by the customs authority
of a country to discourage imports. . Duties
are generally based on the value of the goods
(ad valorem duties), some other factor such
as weight or quantity (specific duties), or
a combination of value and other factors (compound
duties).
Dye Transfer — Technique
of producing full color, accurate color prints.
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E
EAC –– 1.
Exhibitor Appointed Contractor. 2. Exhibit
Advisory Committee.
EACA –– Exhibitor
Appointed Contractor Association. The
trade show industry's only association dedicated
to "raising the level of service excellence
on the showfloor."
EDC –– Exhibitor
Designated Contractor. MORE COMMONLY KNOWN
AS EAC.
EDPA (Exhibit Designers & Producers
Association) — Trade association
for exhibit designers and builders.
by exposition managers.
Easel — A stand or
frame for displaying objects.
Edge Light — Technique
of illuminating engraved lines in glass or
plastic by transmitting light through edge
of material.
Electrical Contractor — A
company contracted by show management to provide
electrical services to exhibitors.
Electricians —Highly
skilled craftsperson who handles installation
of all electrical equipment, which may include
headers, and signs, depending on the jurisdiction.
Elevated Table — Table
raised to counter height.
Elevations — Front
and side views of scaled drawing.
Empty Sticker — The
tag indicating a crate may be moved into storage.
The sticker identifies the exhibitor and the
return location for the crate.
End Cap — An exhibit
space with aisles on three sides. Also called
a peninsula.
EPS –– (ENCAPSULATED
POSTSCRIPT) A file format used to transfer
Postscript image information from one program
to another.
Erection — Assembling
of exhibit properties. SEE I&D.
Est. Wt. — Estimated
Weight.
Estimate — Approximate
calculation of exhibit costs.
Etching — Inscribing
lines of textures on the surface of rigid materials
using acids or tools.
Exclusive — Any agreement
that limits the provision of services to a
single vendor in an exposition or in a facility.
Exclusive Contractor — Contractor
appointed by show or building management as
the sole agent to provide services for an agreed
compensation.
Exclusive Use — Rental
of entire truck or van by one shipper.
Exhibit — A display
used to convey a message. A specific tool of
the communications medium of exhibiting. Also
EXHIBIT BOOTH.
Exhibit Designer/Producer — Company
responsible for designing and constructing
exhibit booth.
Exhibit Directory — A
program book for attendees listing exhibitors
and exhibit booth locations.
Exhibit Hall — The
area within an exposition center where exhibits
are located.
Exhibit House –– Company
that fabricates displays. SEE SHOP, DISPLAY
BUILDER.
Exhibit Manager — Person
in charge of a company's exhibits program or
an individual exhibit (as opposed to the show
manager) that is in charge of the entire exposition.
Exhibit Prospectus — Promotional
materials for prospective exhibitors to encourage
participation.
Exhibition — Preferred
term which refers to an event at which products
and services are displayed. ALSO KNOWN AS EXPOSITION,
TRADE SHOW.
Exhibition Manager –– Preferred
term for a person responsible or all aspects
of planning, promoting, and producing an exposition.
Also known as show manager and show organizer.
ALSO KNOWN AS EXPOSITION MANAGER, SHOW MANAGER
Exhibitor — One who
displays in an exposition.
Exhibitor Advisory
Committee (EAC) — Representatives
of a show’s exhibiting companies who
act as advisers to show management on rules
and procedures, and also update show management
on industry trends and issues.
Exhibitor-Appointed
Contractors (EAC) — Service
organizations appointed by the exhibitor, i.e.,
any company other than the designated "official" contractor
providing a service to an exhibitor can refer
to an I&D house, transportation company,
AV company, furniture company, photographer,
florist, or any other type of contractor. Also
called INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR.
Exhibitor Lounge — An
area either on or adjacent to the exhibit floor
where exhibitors may relax or meet with customers.
Show management sometimes provides special
services in this area, such as translators
for a show that has international attendees.
Exhibitor Manual — See
SERVICE KIT, ALSO KNOWN AS SHOW KIT.
Exhibit Newsletter — A
newsletter sent by show management to exhibitors
prior to a show. It includes updates on deadlines,
show rules and regulations, events, and marketing
opportunities offered by show management plus
educational articles to improve exhibitors’ effectiveness.
Exhibitor Prospectus — Direct
mail piece sent to current and prospective
exhibitors that promote benefits of exhibiting
in a specific show. Compare ATTENDEE BROCHURE.
Exhibitor Retention — Persuading
current exhibitors to participate in subsequent
events. Exhibitor retention rate is the percentage
of exhibitors that renew.
Exhibits Manager — See
FLOOR MANAGER.
Expanded Metal — Sheets
of metal cut and expanded to form an open mesh,
usually used as decorative grill.
Expedited Service — Service
offered by transportation company to assure
prompt delivery.
Export — To
send or transport goods out of one country
for sale in another country. In international
sales, the exporter is usually the seller
or the seller's agent. Compare IMPORT.
Export Broker — An
individual or firm that brings together buyers
and sellers for a fee but does not take part
in actual sales transactions.
Export License — A
government document that permits the "Licensee" to
engage in the export of designated goods to
certain destinations. Lists of such goods are
found in the comprehensive Export Schedules
issued by the Bureau of Foreign Commerce.
Export Management
Company — A
private firm that serves as the export department
for several manufacturers, soliciting and transacting
export business on behalf of its clients in
return for a commission, salary, or retainer
plus commission.
Exposition — Alternate
term foran event at which products or services
are exhibited. SEE EXHIBITION.
Exposition Manager — Alternate
term for a person responsible or all aspects
of planning, promoting, and producing an exposition.
ALSO KNOWN AS SHOW MANAGER, OR SHOW ORGANIZER.
Exposition Rules — The
regulations prepared by exposition management
for a given event.
Extruded — To form
metal or plastic, push out.
Extruded Aluminum –– Any
of a variety of extruded metal "system" displays
whose manufacturers include, but are not limited
to, Octanorm, GEM, and MIS among others.
Extrusions — Products
produced in continuous shapes by forcing materials
under great pressure through dies; i.e., "T" molding
channel, angle.
Eye Bolts –– Eye
bolts or eye screws have a looped head or an
opening in the head.
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F
FHC — Notation
on floor plans indicating the location of fire
hose cabinets.
Fabrication — The
building or construction of an exhibit display.
Facility — See CONVENTION
CENTER, HALL.
Facility Manager —The
manager of a convention center or hall.
Facing –– Decorative
trim, painted or applied.
Fade — Term used
to describe transition from one scene to next
by slowly darkening image, also called DISSOLVE.
Fascia — Panel at
top of an exhibit, usually bearing company
name.
Fiber Optics — 1. In
displays, the use of cut glass fibers to display
colored light. 2. In telephony, material used
for carrying voice and data signals.
Fiberglass — A material
fabricated from plastic resins and glass fiber.
Available in rigid forms, translucent and opaque.
Can also be custom fabricated in intricate
shapes.
Field Services — Handling
installation and dismantling, including freight,
drayage, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, ironworkers,
riggers, and maintenance.
Finger Pull — Hinged
finger grip usually mounted in recess on hinged
doors.
Finished — Wooden
articles that have passed the state of manufacture "in
the white." See IN THE WHITE (refers to wood
that has been primed).
Fire Aisle –– Interior
aisle in an exhibition floor plan used for
emergency egress that must be kept clear of
obstructions.
Fire Exit — SEE EMERGENCY
EXIT.
Fire Extinguisher –– Any
agent used to extinguish fires such as water,
sand, CO2, Halon, etc.
Fire Lane — An
external vehicle lane that must be kept clear
of obstruction to allow emergency egress.
Fire Retardant — Term
used to describe a finish (usually liquid)
that coats materials with a fire resistant
cover. This does not render the material fireproof.
Fixed Jig — Permanent
felt support mounted within shipping container.
Flame Proofed — Term
used to describe material that is, or had been
treated with a fire retardant.
Flange — That part
of an extruded, formed or fabricated component
that protrudes from the basic shape. Often
used as mounting plate.
Flasher — Device
to activate one or more lamps by intermittently
interrupting current.
Flasher Button,
Thermal — Flasher
that is reacting to heat of electrical flow,
built up heat, causing flasher to break current
until cooled. These types cannot be programmed.
Flasher, Random — Several
flashers acting in non-programmed fashion.
Use may be restricted in show rules.
Flat Framed — 1' x
2', 1' x 3' or 1' x 4' mounted on flat surface,
usually associated with banners or signs.
Float –– A
large 4 wheel dolly with upright handle,
can be manual or motorized.
Floater — Worker
used by foreman to help assigned labor for
short periods.
Flocking — An electrostatic
spraying process producing a velvety finish
on any surface.
Floor Load — Maximum
amount of weight per square foot a floor can
support. May also refer to the maximum amount
of power available from floor outlets and ports.
Floor Manager — An
individual (often an independent contractor
) representing show management, or the official
contractor, who is responsible for the installation,
dismantling, and operation of the exhibition
area.
Floor Marking — Method
of marking booth spaces in an empty exhibit
hall to indicate where booths will be set.
Floor Order — Order
for labor or services placed after exhibit
setup begins. Usually more expensive than an
ADVANCE ORDER.
Floor Plan — A map
showing layout of exhibit spaces, lounges,
concession areas, restrooms, electrical/plumbing
accessibility, etc.
Floor Port — A
utility box, recessed in the floor, containing
electrical, telephone, and/or plumbing connections.
Flush Lock — Non-protruding
locking device inserted flush with surface.
Flush Mounted — Mounting
of one material to another with no space between
them.
Foam Core — Paper exterior
sandwiching rigid foam often used for show
signage.
Font — An alphabet
of letters of one style or type. SEE TYPE FACE.
Food stuff / Edibles –– Imports
are subject to sanitary/veterinary health certificates.
Live animals/plants may be quarantined.
Force Majuere — The
title of a standard clause in contracts exempting
the parties for non-fulfillment of their obligations
as a result of conditions beyond their control,
such as earthquakes, floods or war.
Foreman –– Supervisor
of a group of workers whose duties will vary
based upon the region of the country and the
union affiliation.
Forklift, Forktruck — Vehicle
used to transport heavy exhibit materials short
distances and for loading and unloading materials..
For-Profit Show
Management Company — A
management company whose owners or stockholders
share in its net proceeds. SEE INDEPENDENT
SHOW ORGANIZER.
Four Hour Call — Under
certain circumstances this is the minimum work
period for which union labor must be paid.
Not to be confused with minimum charges to
exhibitors applied by contractors that service
shows.
Free Standing — Self-supporting
and independent exhibit material.
Freight — Exhibit
properties, products, and other materials shipped
for an exhibit.
Freight Contractor — The
show –designated company responsible
for handling exhibit properties from the dock
to the exhibit space.
Freight Desk — At
a show, the freight contractor’s service
area for handling inbound and outbound exhibit
materials.
Freight Forwarder — An
independent business that handles shipments
for
Compensation, either a local cartage or long
haul carrier.
Freight Handling
Form — Form
for exhibitor requesting handling of materials.
Not to be confused with long haul shipping
forms, or bills of lading.
Fresnel — Theatrical
Fixture with adjustable lens 150 W through
1500 W.
Furniture Dolly –– SEE
FLOAT, CART
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G
GATT — General
Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. A multilateral
treaty whose purpose is to help reduce trade
barriers between the signatory countries and
to promote trade through tariff concessions.
GST –– Goods
and services taxes.
Gang Box — Nickname
for a equipment box most contractors and some
exhibitors carry that contains tools and supplies
needed for the routine set up of trade show
displays. See JOB BOX or TROUBLE BOX.
Gator Foam –– Laminated
foam board used for signage, available in a
variety of thicknesses. More rigid and durable
than Foam Core.
Gauge — Where
tariffs refer to gauge, they mean the U.S.
Standard Gauge for determining thickness
of sheet or plate steel; Browne & Sharpe
Gauge for rod and sheets of aluminum, copper,
brass and bronze; U.S. Steel Wire Gauge for
iron, steel, and copper wire.
Gel — Theatrical
color filter used in conjunction with theatrical
projection fixtures and spotlights. Also referred
to as GELATIN.
General Contractors SEE GENERAL
SERVICE CONTRACTOR. Also OFFICIAL CONTRACTORS.
General Export
Licenses — Any
of various export licenses covering export
commodities for which VALIDATED EXPORT LICENSES
are not required. No formal application or
written authorization is needed to ship exports
under a General Export License.
General Service
Contractor — An
organization that provides show management
and exhibitors with a wide range of services,
sometimes including, but not limited to, installation & dismantle
(I&D), creating and hanging signage and
banners, laying carpet, material handling ,
and providing booth furniture. ALSO KNOWN AS
OFFICIAL CONTRACTOR. SOMETIMES REFERRED TO
AS "DECORATOR".
Genie Lift –– The
manufacturer of a variety of lifts used in
the erection of trade show displays. The first
model manufactured was a hand-cranked material
handling lift .ALSO REFERRED TO AS A HURTY
GURTY. Genie now also manufactures motorized
lifts that can be used as material lifts or
man lifts.
Glass, Wire — Plate
glass with embedded wire reinforcement.
GOBO –– A special
pattern made of metal or glass that can be
installed into the aperture of a light source
to project a pattern.
Goose-necked light –– A
small spot light with a flexible stem so that
it can be pointed in the direction that light
is most desired.
Graphics — Communicative
elements—color, copy, art, photographs,
translites, etc.—used to illustrate a
booth theme or to enhance decor.
Grid System — Technique
of providing system of structural supports,
electrical conduit, etc., on a pattern of centers.
Also used for ceilings.
Grommet — Rubber,
metal or plastic element for reinforcing holes
in weaker materials.
Gross Square Feet — Total
space available in exhibit hall as compared
to net square feet, which is usable exhibit
space.
Gross Weight — The
full weight of a shipment, including goods
and packaging. Compare TARE WEIGHT.
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H
Hall — A
generic term for an exposition facility. May
also refer to an individual area within a facility.
For instance, one facility could have multiple
halls.
Hand Truck — A small,
hand-propelled vehicle used for transporting
small loads. SEE FLOAT.
Hard Card — 1.
Work order for labor or services. 2. Material
handling contractor’s record of materials
received or shipped.
Hardwall — A type
of exhibit construction in which the walls
are of solid material, rather than fabric.
Hard wire ––Mechanical
terminations of bare end wire to electrical
equipment.
Header — A sign or
other structure across top of exhibit. Usually
displays company name. SEE ID SIGN, LIGHT BAR.
High Drape –– High
drape is any drape over 8’ high which
requires special equipment. High drape is used
to create dramatic areas such as stages or
special focal points. Typically, high drape
is dark blue velour and is 16’ to 19’ high,
although vinyl or 11’ banjo drape in
blue and other colors is often used. All high
drape needs to be anchored securely on its
framework to ensure it cannot fall.
High Jacker — A
manufacturer of equipment capable of lifting
a person or persons to a given height. A high
lift or ladder generally used in focusing
lights or adjusting rigging. ALSO KNOWN AS
CHERRY PICKER, JLG, SCISSORS LIFT, GENIE
LIFT.
Hire — International
term referring to "rent" a service or product.
Hold Harmless Clauses — Contract
clauses that attempt to limit the liability
of one party in case of a claim.
Hologram — A photographic
effect using lasers to obtain a three dimensional
image on a flat surface.
Horizontal Show — A
show in which the products or services being
displayed represent all segments of an industry
or profession. Compare VERTICAL SHOW.
Hospitality Suite/Event — An
event in the United States, usually separate
from the exhibit, in which refreshments are
served and exhibitor personnel and visitors
socialize. Most shows require hospitality events
to be opened only after exhibit hours.
Hotel Show — An exposition
held in the exhibit space or ballroom of a
hotel.
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I
I&D — Installation
and dismantle of an exhibit (set-up/teardown).
Import — To bring
foreign goods into a country. Compare EXPORT.
Import License — A
document required and issued by some national
governments authorizing the importation of
goods into their individual countries.
Independent Contractor —1.
A contractor hired by an exhibitor to perform
show services independent of show management-appointed
contractors. ALSO CALLED EXHIBITOR-APPOINTED
CONTRACTOR (EAC). 2. Any individual or company
hired to perform show services on a contract
basis.
Independent Show
Management Company — A
for-profit show management company.
Infringement — Use
of floor space outside exclusive booth area.
Inland Bill of
Lading — A
bill of lading used in transporting goods overland
to the exporter's international carrier. Although
a through bill of lading can sometimes be used,
it is usually necessary to prepare both an
inland bill of lading and an ocean bill of
lading for export shipments. Compare AIR WAYBILL,
BILL OF LADING, OCEAN BILL OF LADING, THROUGH
BILL OF LADING.
Inline Booth — Exhibit
space with exhibit booths on either side and/
or back.
Inserts — 1.Interchangeable
panels of copy or art.. 2. Advertising flyer
used by show organizers and/or exhibitors.
Usually tipped-in (affixed with glue) or blown-in
(inserted loose) to trade publications as an
advertisement.
Installation — Setting
up an exhibit material to prescribed set-up
instructions and drawings.
Installation & Dismantle — Also
referred to as I&D. The set-up and teardown
of exhibits.
Installer –– Skilled
labor used to set up displays at trade shows.
The union affiliation of the installer will
vary based upon the locale and the facility
in question.
Interactive Exhibits — Exhibits
in which the visitor is involved with the exhibit
in a proactive way.
Interactive Video — Exhibits
in which the visitor is involved with the video
in a proactive way.
International Freight
Forwarder — See
FREIGHT FORWARDER.
Inventory — Total
amount of furniture and equipment available
for show.
Island Exhibit — A
three-dimensional display exposed to aisles
on all four sides.
Isometric — A perspective-like
drawing, except that all lengths have the same
proportion.
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J
Jewel Light — Colored
plastic or glass insert used in front of light
source in panel faces to identify, pinpoint,
etc., areas.
Jig — Shop or bench
setup for making repetitive assemblies.
Jigging — Special
dividers, sectioning and protective padding
inside exhibit crates.
Job Foreman — One who
is in charge of specific projects.
Jointing — Technique
of rendering lumber surfaces perfectly straight
and smooth so as to permit a perfect fit.
This operation is usually performed on continuous
automatic machine called a Jointer.
Journeyman — Worker
who has satisfactorily completed an apprenticeship
in a skilled trade.
Jurisdiction 1. The jobs
that may be performed by a specific labor union.
2. The locality where a contractual dispute
is decided.
K
KD (Knockdown) — Exhibit
or display components requiring on-site assembly.
Kick Base (Toe
Base) — Base
molding or band added to structure to absorb
marring caused by brooms, mops, etc.
Kiosk — A small free-standing
structure, open to one or more sides, used
within an exhibit for the display of printed
or electronic information.
Kit — See
SERVICE KIT.
Kodalith — Type of
film.
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L
L&D — Loss
and Damage.
Labor — For shows,
refers to contracted workers who perform services.
Also INSTALLERS.
Labor Call — 1. A method
of securing union employees. 2. Time specified
for labor to report.
Labor Desk — The location
in an exhibit hall where exhibitors can order
labor.
Labor Form — Form used
by exhibitors requesting labor at exhibition.
Laborer — See INSTALLERS.
Lacquer
Finish — Coating
sprayed on wood, metal and other materials,
pigment colored or clear, that is durable and
washable. Composition of coating includes primarily
a water soluble solution.
Lamination — The
bonding under pressure of two or more materials
to form a layer or sandwich of materials; i.e.,
plywood,, plastic laminate
Landscape — Sign
where width measurement (horizontal line) is
larger than height. Also known as HORIZONTAL.
Lap Joint — Joint in
construction achieved by overlapping ends of
lumber for greater strength than simple butt
joint.
Laser Disc — A medium
for holding an image. Can be randomly accessed
on a disc player, allowing interactive exhibits.
See also DVD.
Lazy Susan — Manually
rotated tray on ball bearings. Better known
as TURNTABLES.
Leadman — Employee
who sets the pace for a group working on the
same job or as a team. Also known as LEADS,
AND LEADPERSONS.
Lead Retrieval — A
system for capturing and follow up of leads
generated at an exposition.
Lead Tracking — A system
for follow-up of leads generated at an exposition.
Lectern — A reading
stand with a slanted top. A lectern that stands
on the floor is a PODIUM.
Less than Truckload
(LTL) — Rates
applicable when the quantity of freight is
less than the volume of truckload minimum weight.
Liability — Legal
definition of the person or persons responsible
for damage or injuries.
Lighting Truss — A
construction of tubular steel or aluminum alloy
onto which lighting instruments are hung and
which is in turn suspended above the stage
or exhibit.
Light Bar - A bar with a
light that hangs behind a header.
Light Box — Enclosure
with lighting and translucent face of plastic
or glass.
Lighting Plot –– A
print showing the location and type of all
lights used in a booth.
Linear Display — Linear
exhibits are generally 10’ deep. They
are offered in 10’ or 15’ widths
and can be combined to create an exhibit of
almost any length.
Line Art — Term
for artwork composed of lines only with no
tone.
Literature Rack — Devices
used to hold literature or brochures. Also
Lit Rack.
Loading Dock — An area
on premises where goods are and shipped.
Local — Organization
of employees in one area or in one company
or a group of companies, chartered by and affiliated
with a national or international union. SEE
UNION.
Lock Up — A secure
storage area within an exposition facility.
Logo — A trademark,
unique to each particular company.
Loop Fabric — Fabric
to which Velcro fastener fabric will adhere.
Loop Projector — Projector
modified to run film that has been spliced
into continuous loop.
LTL –– See
Less than Truckload.
Lumiline — Slim,
cylindrical, incandescent lamp; used as substitute
for fluorescent lamps where dimming is required.
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M
Man Lift –– SEE
FLYING CARPET, SCISSORS LIFT, GENIE LIFT.
Marshalling Area — An
area set-aside for the arranging of buses or
trucks prior to the beginning of operations.
Also known as marshalling yard.
Mask — To cover for
painting or protection.
Masking Drape — A cloth
used to cover storage or other unsightly areas.
Material Handling –– Services
performed by General Service Contractor that
includes delivery of exhibit materials from
the dock to assigned space, removing empty
crates, returning crates at end of show for
re-crating, and delivering materials back to
dock for carrier loading. It is a two-way charge,
incoming and outgoing. FORMERLY KNOWN AS DRAYAGE.
Matte — Lusterless
surface.
Measurement
Ton — A
space measurement, usually 40 cubic feet or
one cubic meter. The cargo is assessed a certain
rate for every 40 cubic feet of space it occupies.
Also known as the Cargo Ton or Freight Ton.
Meter — The most
common width for a backwall panel for any of
the extruded systems. (1 meter = 39.37 inches).
Minimum Call — Agreed
upon minimum number of hours of work to be
done by a worker under the labor agreement.
In cases where the work to be done is shorter
than the minimum call, the worker is guaranteed
payment for the full minimum.
Mitre — The joint
created when two pieces of material cut at
equal angles butt together to form a comer.
Mock-Up — A full-scale
model of proposed structure.
Models — A person
stationed in an exhibit to demonstrate a product,
provide attraction to booth or greet visitors.
(Note: This term is falling into disuse.) See
TALENT.
Modular — Structural
elements that are interchangeable. Maximum
flexibility in arrangement and size.
Move-In — Dates set
for installation. ALSO KNOWN AS SET-UP.
Move-Out — Dates
set for dismantling. ALSO KNOWN AS TEAR DOWN.
Multi-Purpose Facility — 1.
A facility that can be reconfigured for another
use. 2. A building complex
containing several different types of facilities,
such as a convention center, arena, and theater.
Multimedia — Combining
two or more types of audio/visual support in
presentation.
Mylar — A trade name
for thin plastic material in sheets or tape,
translucent and opaque.
N
Neoprene — A rubberlike
material.
Nesting — Multiple
objects fitting together in order to conserve
space and improve safety for shipping or storage
Net Square Footage — The
amount of space occupied by exhibits in a facility,
not including aisles, columns, registration
areas, etc.
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O
Ocean Bill of Lading — A
bill of lading (B/L) indicating that the exporter
consigns a shipment to an international carrier
for transportation to a specified foreign market.
Unlike an inland B/L, the ocean B/L also serves
as a collection document. If it is a "Straight
B/L," the foreign buyer can obtain the shipment
from the carrier by simply showing proof of
identity. If a "Negotiable B/L" is used, the
buyer must first pay for the goods, post a
bond, or meet other conditions agreeable to
the seller. Compare AIR WAYBILL, INLAND BILL
OF LADING, THROUGH BILL OF LADING.
Official Contractors — Service
organizations appointed by exhibition management.
Also GENERAL CONTRACTORS.
On-Center — Refers
to measurement of space from center of a solid
object (such as a COLUMN) to another point.
On-Site — Location
of exhibits or project.
On-Site Order — Floor
order placed at show site.
Open Shop — 1.
Generally refers to states that are right
to work states. 2. Company in which union
membership is not a condition of employment.
OT Labor — Work performed
on overtime billed at either time-and-one-half
or twice the published labor rates.
Outsource — To subcontract
a task or responsibility to a supplier.
Overlay — A panel
mounted to another surface.
Overtime —1. Time
worked by an employee outside of, or in addition
to, regular working time or beyond the legal
maximum hours of work. 2. Rate charged at one
and one-half times or two times the straight
time rate for work performed outside of the
normal work hours.
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P
Par Lamp –– A
lamp shaped like an automobile headlight that
consists of a tungsten source housed in an
enclosed lens, which produces a rectangular
beam.
Per Diem. ––– Per
Day.
Package — 1. Can
also refer to a single-fee booth package, offered
by show management. A package might include
booth space, one electrical outlet, one table,
two chairs, and one hour of labor.
Packing Drawing — A
visual to supplement written instruction.
Packing List — A list
showing the number and kinds of items being
shipped, as well as other information needed
for transportation purposes.
Padding — Usually
blanket protection for uncrated material.
Painters — Laborers
who are responsible for sign painting and graphics.
May also have other duties depending upon union
jurisdiction and agreements.
Pallet — See SKID.
Pallet Wrap ––– Process
of wrapping loose items on pallet with transparent
plastic wrapping.
Panel System — A prefabricated
exhibit composed of connected panels of various
sizes and shapes
Pavilion —1. A group
presentation of different companies for the
purpose of generating collected impact. 2.
Temporary structure for housing exhibits.
Pedestal — A floor
support for an exhibit component.
Peg Board — Trade name
for perforated hardboard. Available with holes
on various centers.
Pegged Off — An object
mounted away from supporting surface with spacers.
BETTER KNOWN AS STAND OFF.
Peninsula — An exhibit
or area with aisles on three sides.
Perimeter Booth — Exhibit
space located on an outside wall of an exhibit
hall.
Permanent Exhibit — A
product display held on a long-term basis,
e.g., mart exhibit, museum exhibit, office
exhibit, lobby exhibit, and the like.
Photo Screen — A stencil
made photographically for silk screen reproduction.
Photostats — A reproductive
process employing paper negatives.
Pier Demurrage –– A
charge assessed when the container is removed
from the carrier’s control and is not
returned within the allowable free time. SEE
CONTAINER DETENTION.
Pipe and Drape — Pipe
material with fabric draped from it to make
up side RAILS and BACKWALL of a trade show.
Plan — A top view
mechanical drawing.
Plastic Laminate — Any
one of several of the melamine plastics bonded
to paneling for durability and appearance.
Plexiglas — A trade
name for acrylic plastic material in common
use.
Plumbers — Trades
person responsible for all plumbing installation.
Podium — A reading
stand for making presentations.
Point of Purchase
Display (POP) — An
aid to retail selling. Used to promote or identify
products at their point-of-sale.
Pop - Ups. ––– Lightweight
displays normally shipped in molded plastic
crates. ALSO KNOWN AS PORTABLE EXHIBITS.
Portable Exhibits — Lightweight
displays normally shipped in molded plastic
crates. ALSO KNOWN AS POP-UPS.
Porters — Laborers
who perform sweeping, cleaning, and dusting.
Portrait — Sign where
height measurement (vertical line) is greater
than width measurement. OPPOSITE OF LANDSCAPE.
Positive Prints — A
reproduction similar to the original.
Poster Board — A stiff-weight
art board usually used for printing and/or
presentations.
Poster Session — An
area set aside with poster boards on which
presenters can mount information about their
research or other projects and explain their
work to those who stop. A cross between the
meeting and trade show formats of presenting
information.
Power Strip — A cord
connected unit having multiple electrical outlets,
and over current protection.
Prefab — Pre-built
exhibit ready for installation.
Premium Pay –– SEE
OVERTIME (O/T)
Presenters — Trained
individuals stationed in a booth to present
a scripted promotional message.
Press Kit — Materials,
usually contained in a folder, in which news
releases, product announcements, and other
materials intended for the media are distributed.
Press Release — An
article intended for use by the media about
a company, product, service, individual, or
show.
Press Room — A room
where members of the media may obtain exhibitor
press kits, conduct interviews, or relax. Larger
pressrooms contain typewriters, computers,
telephones, and fax machines for use by the
press in filing their stories.
Priority Rating
System — Method
of assigning booth space.
Producer, Exhibit — An
individual or company that designs and/or builds
exhibits. May also provide other services.
ALSO KNOWN AS BUILDER.
Producer, Show — An
individual or company that manages trade shows;
leases exhibit facility, hires official contractors,
and promotes events.
Prohibited Cargo –– Goods
restricted by international convention. Also
refers to drugs, weapons and ammunitions.
Pro-Number — Shipment
number designated by the common carrier to
a single shipment, used in all cases where
the shipment must be referred. Usually assigned
at once.
Proof — Any preliminary
reproduction by photography, typesetting or
lithography, provided by processor for approval
prior to finished product.
Proposal — To put
forth an idea, design or concept for consideration
or acceptance.
Public Show — One where
general public is invited to attend and an
admission fee is usually charged.
Pylon — A tall exhibit
structure normally used for identification.
Q
Quad Box — Four
electrical outlets in one box.
Qualifying — The
act of determining an exhibit visitor's authority
to purchase a product or service on display.
Quota — The quantity
of goods of a specific kind that a country
will permit to be imported without restriction
or imposition of additional duties.
Quotation — An offer
to sell goods at a stated price and under specified
conditions.
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RFP (Request
for Proposal) — A
request for a description of work to be performed,
products and services to be supplied, and bids
for a project.
ROI (Return-On-Investment) — Measurement
of benefit an exhibiting company receives from
participation of an exhibition. Broadest example
formula: income minus costs equals ROI.
ROO (Return on
Objectives) — Measurement
of benefit an exhibiting company receives for
participation at an exhibition by company pre-set
objectives to show success.
Rail — A
low divider between exhibit spaces.
Raised Letters — Lettering
cut out of any material and applied or mounted
to a surface or background for dimensional
effects.
Rear Projection — Movie,
slide, or computer image presentation where
the screen is between the viewer and the projector.
Reception — Stand-up
social function with food and beverages.
Refurbish — To repair
damage, renew surfaces, and replace graphics,
as necessary, to recondition an exhibit, extending
its life span.
Registration — The
process of obtaining information from an event’s
participants, including name, company affiliation
and address, plus any other information that
is requested by show management.
Registration Area — Designated
area, usually outside the exhibit hall or meeting
room, where exhibitors and attendees are badged.
Regional Show — A show
targeted to attendees from a specific geographical
area. May be a stand-alone event, or a regional
version of a national show.
Release Forms — Documents
provided by management to permit removal of
goods from exhibition during show hours. MORE
COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS PROPERTY PASSES.
Released Value –– Limit
of carrier’s liability.
Rental Booth — Complete
booth package offered to exhibitors on a rental
basis.
Return — Common term
applied to panel joined to background at 90-degree
angle.
Rigger —1.
Responsible for machinery uncrating, unskidding,
positioning, leveling, and reskidding. 2. Skilled
labor responsible for attaching signs, banners,
truss, and other equipment to ceiling of exhibit
hall.
Riser — A platform
to elevate people or product.
Room Capacity — The
maximum number of people allowed in any given
area.
Room Set-Up — The layout
of tables, chairs, other furniture, and equipment
for functions.
Rough Sketch — Quick
drawing giving indications of proposed exhibit.
Round — A banquet
table, usually 60 inches in diameter; also
available in 66- and 72-inch diameters.
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SISO (Society
of Independent Show Organizers) — Trade
association for independent exposition
producers.
Scale Model — Any model
articulating all components of original object,
but in smaller size.
Scene in Action — Term
for mechanical animation technique that achieves
simulated flow motion by rotating striped cylindrical
acetate drum between light source and face
artwork. SEE GOBOS.
Schematic Model — A
diagram of an object in model form.
Scooter — Electrical
cart used for driving around the show floor.
Scribe Line — Shallow
groove incised into face of material.
Scrim — Theatrical
term for fabric that is opaque when lighted
from front and transparent when illuminated
from the rear.
Security Cages — Wire
enclosures supplied to exhibitors to lock up
materials for safe storage.
Self-Contained
Exhibit — A
display that has its shipping case an integral
part of of its design.
Service Desk — A central
location to order or reconfirm the functions
provided by general service contractor or exposition
management
Service Kit — Packet
for exhibitor containing information and forms
relating to the exhibition. SEE EXHIBITOR MANUAL.
Set-Up — The function
of erecting the displays, installation, or
articles in theirassembled condition.
Set-Up Drawing — The
plans from which the exhibit components are
assembled.
Set-Up Personnel — Exhibit
installers.
Shadow Box — Five-sided
enclosure with face open for display of art
or object; a niche.
Shell Scheme — A standardized
hardwall exhibit system that is offered as
part of the space package for exhibitors
Shiplap — Construction
technique of joining two materials by notching
both and inserting slots into each other.
Shipment — Freight
tendered to a carrier by one consignor at one
place at one time for delivery to one consignee
at one place on one bill of lading.
Shipper — Company
or individual to who exhibit materials are
consigned for transportation.
Shipper's Export
Declaration — A
form required for all shipments by the U.S.
Treasury Department and prepared by a shipper,
indicating the value, weight, destination,
and other basic information about an export
shipment.
Shipping Case — A container
for exhibit components suitable for extended
reuse,
Shipping Crate — A
container for exhibit components. Usually with
screwed or nailed lid. SEE CRATE.
Ship's Manifest — An
instrument in writing, signed by the captain
of a ship that lists the individual shipments
constituting the ship's cargo.
S-Hook — Type
of metal hanging hardware in form of the
letter "S",
used as hanger for identification signs, plaques,
etc.
Shop — Primarily
refers to display builder, also refers tocontractor's
main office and warehouse.
Shop Steward — Person
designated by the union within a shop or unit
to represent employees.
Show Break — Time of
show closing when dismantling begins. ALSO
KNOWN AS SHOW CLOSE.
Show Daily — A newspaper
published each day during the run of a show.
It includes articles about the exhibit and
events.
Show Decorator — SEE
GENERAL CONTRACTOR, or OFFICIAL SERVICE CONTRATOR.
Show Directory — A
softcover book containing a listing, with booth
numbers, of all the exhibitors in a show, a
map showing booth locations, and (often) advertising.
ALSO KNOWN AS SHOW BOOK.
Show Manager — The
organizer and/or operator of an exhibition.
Show Office —Show Management
Office at exhibition.
Show Photographer — Official
photographer for exhibition appointed by show
manager.
Show Producer — Company
or individual who initiates and plans an event,
is responsible for renting a site and for soliciting
exhibitors. See EXPOSITION MANAGER.
Show Rates ––-
Rates established by show management, official
service contractors and/or other official service
providers, and published in the Exhibitor Kit.
Show Rules — The general
rules and regulations governing a specific
trade show.
Show-Within-A-Show —A
show with its own name and focus that takes
place within a larger, related event.
Showcase — General
term for glazed or framed enclosure for display
of objects.
Shrink Wrap —SEE PALLET
WRAP.
Side Rail — A low divider
panel used to separate an exhibit space from
an adjacent area.
Sign Holder — Stand
for displaying signs.
Sign Hook — Piece of
S-shaped metal for hanging signs. ALSO KNOWN
AS S-HOOK.
Sintra ––-
PVC Panel, same as Chydex, Chomatex, used
in signs and displays.
Sketch Model — A three-dimensional
sketch.
Skid — Wooden platform
used to support machinery or a collection of
objects for easier handling. Also thick wood
blocks attached to crates that allow forklift
access for easier handling. Also called PALLET
Skids — Wood runners
protecting the exterior of a shipping case.
Skirting — Decorative
covering around tables and risers.
Slider — Telescopic
pipe.
Smokers — Ashtrays
on stands.
Space Rate — Cost per
square foot for exhibit space.
Special Handling — Applies
to display shipments that require extra labor,
equipment, or time in delivery to booth area.
Specialty Contractor — A
supplier of a specific show service, such as
photography, rental of furniture or audio/visual
equipment, or floral decoration.
Sponsorship — Payment
of the cost of a service or activity at an
event, in exchange for being publicized at
the event.
Spot Light — A lamp
providing controlled circle of light.
Squeeze Connector — Fitting
used to secure SJ-type cords to plugs and splice
boxes.
Stagehands Labor for all
theactrical presentations. Depending on geographical
jurisdiction, handles all facets of trade show
installation including but not limited to rigging,
carpeting and drapery, display and exhibit
booth installation and maintenance, and handling
of electrical and audio/visual equipment. MEMBER
OF IATSE.
Staging Area — 1. A
place for demonstration. 2. A preparation area,
usually on premises, where suppliers review
orders and organize items before delivering
them to exhibit booths. 3. An area adjacent
to the dock where freight trucks wait until
they may unload.
Stanchions — Upright
posts used to support signage; also support
ropes that prevent entry.
Stand — European
term for booth.
Steward –– SEE
UNION STEWARD.
ST Labor — Work performed
on straight time.
Stock Bill — A
list of specific materials and sizes.
Stock Exhibits — A
pre-designed unit adapted to particular use
by identification, color, graphics and minor
structural modifications.
Strike the Show — 1.
Term used in some cities to describe the dismantle
of exhibits. 2. To remove all scenery and props
from the stage.
Strip Light — Fluorescent
lighting wired in a line.
Stud — Vertical structural
wall support of wood or metal.
Styrofoam — Trade
name for lightweight rigid form of compressed
polystyrene crystals.
Subcontractor — Company
retained by a primary contractor to provide
services to exhibitors or show management.
Survey — Solicitation
of exhibitor's or attendees opinions
System — A stock
set of components that can be put together
to make an exhibit.
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T&M — An abbreviation
of a form of billing through labor costs (time)
and materials.
TSEA — See TRADE
SHOW EXHIBITORS ASSOCIATION.
Table Skirt ––-
Any fabric used to skirt a display table.
Table Top Display — Exhibit
designed for use on top of a table.
Talent — Outside
personnel stationed in a trade show exhibit
to demonstrate a product, provide attraction
to booth or greet visitors. Includes magicians
and similar attractions. See MODELS, PRESENTERS.
Target Date — A date
set by show management and/or general service
contractor for the arrival of freight at a
trade show. Usually shipments received before
or after this date are assessed a penalty charge.
Tariff — Rules and
rates of a specific carrier.
Teardown — Dismantle.
Tempered Pressed
Wood — A
hardwood product generally used in backwall
paneling.
Template — Pattern
or guide for various repetitive shop functions.
Temporary Import –– Exhibition
material whose temporary import status exempts
payment of duties and taxes on arrival.
Temporary Import
Bond – The
surety covering articles imported into a country
on a temporary basis. This is generally done
in lieu of paying import duties and/or taxes.
The fee for the bond is non-refundable in most
cases.
Terminal —The
carrier’s
facility for transferring freight
Three Dimensional
(3-D) — A
flat image having the effect of three dimensions.
Three Wire — Term describing
electrical cable with one continuous ground
wire in addition to one positive and one negative
wire.
Through Bill of
Lading — A
single bill of lading covering both the domestic
and international carriage of an export shipment.
An air waybill, for instance, is essentially
a through bill of lading used for air
shipments. Ocean shipments, on the other hand,
usually require two separate documents—an
inland bill of lading for domestic carriage
and an ocean bill of lading for international
carriage. Through bills of lading, therefore,
cannot be used. Compare AIR WAYBILL, BILL OF
LADING, INLAND BILL OF LADING, OCEAN BILL OF
LADING.
Tie-Off — A method
of securing shipment by use of nylon belts
and block latches.
Time and Materials — A
method of billing for work done. Similar to
cost plus, but without any extra fee or mark
up.
TIR Carnet –– Similar
to an ATA Carnet, but used for trucks from
non-EC countries to EC countries or for transit
between non-EC countries. Can be used for different
unloading locations. Trucks must be sealed
by Customs.
T-Nut –––Recessed,
threaded fastening device.
Toggle Switch — A lever
moved back and forth to open or close an electric
circuit.
Ton — Freight rates
for liner cargo generally are quoted on the
basis of a certain rate per ton, depending
on the nature of the commodity. This ton, however,
may be a weight ton or a measurement ton. Short
ton = 2000 lbs. Long ton = 2200 Lbs.
Top Hat –– A
metal tube that fits in the front of a lighting
fixture to reduce the spill of stray light
without reshaping the beam or creating hard
edges.
Touch Up — Paints accompanying
an exhibit, in the necessary colors, for the
purpose of painting nicks and scratches.
Tow Motor — See FORKLIFT.
Tractor Trailer — Tractor
is the driving unit of a large truck; trailer
is the container unit.
Trade Fair — Broadly,
the commonly used international term for an
exposition.
Trade Show — An
exposition held for members of a common or
related industry. Not open to the general
public.
Trade Show Exhibitors
Association — Trade
association for organizations that use exhibits
as a marketing, promotional or communications
medium. Also designated by the acronym TSEA.
Formerly known as the International Exhibitors
Association (IEA).
Traffic Flow — A supposed
or directed path the audience will take through
an exposition or exhibit.
Transparency — A
black and white or color translucent (see-through)
photograph or artwork.
Truckload — Truckload
rates apply where the tariff shows a truckload
minimum weight. Charges will be at the truckload
minimum weight unless weight is higher.
Turnkey Exhibit — A
system whereby the exhibit manager turns responsibility
of the display over to an exhibit services
company. In essence, the exhibitor simply "turns
the key" upon arrival at the show and opens
the booth.
Turntable — Electrically
or manually rotating platform.
TV Monitor — A cathode
ray tube (CRT) used to show a video image ,
also refers to LED (light emitting diode) monitors,
plasma monitors, liquid crystal display (LCD)
monitors, and rear projection monitors.
Typeset Copy — Text
whose type has been mechanically set prior
to reproduction.
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Union — An
organization of workers formed for mutual benefit
and for the purpose of dealing collectively
with their employer in wages, hours, working
conditions, and other matters pertaining to
their employment.
Union Contract — Written
agreement between an employer and a union specifying
the terms and conditions of employment for
workers. Also known as COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
AGREEMENT.
Union Jurisdiction —The
jobs that may be performed by a specific labor
union. SEE JURISDICTION.
Union Steward — On-site
union official; union official who will represent
the union workers in relation to the terms
of the agreements.
Upright — Metal support
for drapes. See POST.
Useage — Temporary
storage area for excess furniture, carpet and
equipment. Typically used by general service
contractor on show site.
V
VAT — Value Added
Tax. Applies to all EC countries, Switzerland
and other countries around the world. A tax
on the estimated market value added to any
product at each stage of its manufacture or
distribution, ultimately passed on to the consumer.
The percentage applies to CIF value and duties
and the percentage differs from one country
to another. Local VAT on forwarding/handling
services is not charged between EC companies
with a registered VAT number, or to non-EC
exhibitors on condition the local forwarder
executes Customs clearance and transport.
Vacuum Forming — Technique
for molding plastic sheets by heating and drawing
sheets in a vacuum press.
Valance — A short
overhead, decorative border normally used as
a light baffle or screen.
Validated Export
License — A
document issued by the U.S. Government authorizing
the export of commodities for which written
export authorization is required by law. Compare
GENERAL EXPORT LICENSE.
Velcro — Brand name
of hook and loop fastener used to adhere objects
to a display. Has two components: hook and
fabric. The two components adhere to one another,
but may be easily separated and reattached,
allowing graphics and other materials to be
moved.
Velour — A plush
fabric like velvet, used for draperies, upholstery,
etc.
Veneer –– Finish
product that is applied over a base material,
or substrate.
Venue –– Any
place that you can conduct a trade show.
Vertical Show — A show
in which the products or services being displayed
represent one element of an industry or profession.
Compare HORIZONTAL SHOW.
Vinyl — Plastic material
used for drapes or tabletops.
Vinyl Tops — Plastic
tabletop coverings.
Visitor — An attendee
at an exposition. A potential customer.
Visqueen — A type
of clear plastic sheeting used to protect carpeting
from the time it is laid to the time the show
opens. ALSO KNOWN AS POLY
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Wage Rate — Rate of
pay per period of time or per unit of production
for an employee on a given job.
Wallboard — A soft
wood product used in one-time paneling or where
whiteness and softness is desired.
Warehouse Receipt — A
receipt issued by a warehouse listing goods
received for storage.
Waste Removal — Removal
of trash from building.
Waybill — List of
enclosed goods and shipping instructions, sent
with material in transit.
Wheeler — An upright,
manually propelled, two wheeled cart used to
move objects such as boxes. ALSO KNOWN AS TWO-WHEEL
DOLLY.
Wing Nut — Commonly
used threaded nut with flanges. Used for connecting
backwall panels, and preferred for their easy
adjustment by hand.
Wishbone Leg — Fold-up
leg on display table.
Work Rules — Regulations
that govern union craftspersons' working conditions.
Includes what type of work an exhibitor may
perform, when overtime begins, etc.
Work Time — Paid time
that begins as soon as the workers are turned
over to the exhibitor. Stops when the exhibitor
releases them.
Working Drawing — The
detail plans from which an exhibit is constructed.
X
Xhibit – Exhibit
spelled incorrectly
Y
You, yours – the
two most effective words in marketing, another
effective marketing word is FREE
Z
Zzzzzzz – sound
you make when you fall asleep knowing Exhibit
Network is taking care of your trade show
program
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