10 Questions to Ask Before Ordering a Trade Show Display
Purchasing a trade show display is a significant investment in your company's marketing. Whether you're preparing for your first event or upgrading an existing booth, asking the right questions before placing your order can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
At DoTradeshow, we've helped thousands of businesses prepare for successful trade shows, and we've found that the best outcomes happen when customers ask the right questions early in the process.
Here are the ten questions every exhibitor should ask before ordering a trade show display.
1. What Size Booth Do I Have?
Before you start shopping, confirm your booth size with the event organizer.
The most common booth sizes are:
- 8 x 10'
- 10' x 10'
- 10' x 20'
- 20' x 20'
Knowing your booth dimensions helps ensure you purchase a display that fits your space without overcrowding it or leaving it looking empty.
2. Is My Artwork Ready for Large Format Printing?
Artwork that looks great on your computer isn't always ready for print.
Before placing your order, ask yourself:
- Is my artwork high resolution?
- Is it designed to the correct dimensions?
- Are images at least 100–150 DPI at full size?
- Have I included bleed where required?
- Is everything in CMYK color mode?
Large-format printing magnifies every detail, making proper file preparation essential.
The biggest question we get asked is about colors. Colors are so complex we have a few blogs we want to share with you below. We are all about giving you the knowledge you need to ensure your display is what you want it to be.
Why does my print look different than my design?
Why printer don't all print the same colors
What is Dye Sublimation printing?
3. When Is My Event?
One of the biggest mistakes exhibitors make is waiting too long to order.
Remember to allow time for:
- Artwork revisions
- Proof approval
- Production
- Shipping
- Unexpected delays
Ordering early provides peace of mind and more flexibility if changes are needed.
4. How Will I Transport My Display?
Will you:
- Drive to your event?
- Fly?
- Ship your booth to the venue?
Transportation affects which display is best for you.
Lightweight fabric displays are ideal for air travel, while larger modular systems may require shipping or specialty cases.
5. Will I Need to Set It Up Myself?
Not every display requires the same level of assembly.
Ask:
- Can one person assemble it?
- Does it require tools?
- How long does setup take?
Choosing a display that matches your team's capabilities makes event setup much less stressful.
6. Will I Reuse This Display?
Think beyond your next event.
If you attend multiple trade shows each year, consider a display that allows for:
- Replacement graphics
- Graphic interchange
- Expandability
- Easy transportation
- Long-term durability
A reusable display often provides better value over time. We are all for using what you have and making that work.
7. Does the Company Review My Artwork?
This is one of the most important questions you can ask.
Some online printers simply print whatever file is uploaded.
At DoTradeshow, we carefully review every file before production. If we notice something that could affect your final product, we'll reach out before printing.
Our goal is to help you avoid costly mistakes—not discover them after your display arrives.
Check this blog out about: Print Resolution & Pixelation
8. What Happens If I Need Help After Delivery?
Receiving your display isn't always the end of the journey.
You may have questions about:
- Setup
- Graphic replacement
- Banner tension
- Replacement parts
- Storage
- Future reorders
Choose a company that continues supporting you after your order has been delivered.
We get asked this question a lot regarding retractable banners and whether we can reuse them. We are all about using what you have.
You can read up on graphic interchange "HERE" and also how to reset your retractable banner tension if needed "HERE"
9. What Is Included in My Purchase?
Before ordering, verify exactly what's included.
Does your purchase come with:
- Hardware?
- Printed graphics?
- A carrying case?
- Setup instructions?
- Replacement part availability?
Understanding what is—and isn't—included helps prevent surprises when your order arrives.
We also put together a blog post about finding the right travel case for flying "HERE"
10. Am I Buying Based on Price… or Value?
It's tempting to compare companies based solely on price.
But ask yourself:
- Will someone review my artwork?
- Can I call with questions?
- Will someone help me if something goes wrong?
- Is there support after my order arrives?
The cheapest option isn't always the least expensive in the long run.
A company that provides guidance, communication, and ongoing support can help you avoid costly mistakes and give you confidence leading up to your event.
We have a blog that talks more about our pricing "HERE"
Final Thoughts
Choosing a trade show display is about more than selecting a product.
It's about selecting a partner who understands your goals and wants your event to be successful.
Taking a few extra minutes to ask these questions before placing your order can help ensure you receive the right display, the right support, and a much smoother experience from start to finish.
If you have questions about which display is right for your next event, our team is always happy to help. Whether you're attending your first trade show or your fiftieth, we're here to guide you every step of the way.
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Need help setting up your file?
Let's make your booth the talk of the event!
Happy exhibiting! With much love,
 We hope you found this helpful and an answer to your questions.
If you would like help and support in choosing the right display for your needs, reach out to us!
We would love to help bring your ideas to life.
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