How to Choose the Right Case for Your Trade Show Display
One of the most common questions we get is:
“What case should I use for my display?”
The honest answer?
It depends on the shipping dimensions of your display.
We don’t manufacture custom cases for every unit — and most of the time, a standard wheeled suitcase works perfectly.
Here’s how to find the right one.
Step 1: Look at the Shipping Dimensions of Your Display
Every display we sell has shipping dimensions listed.
This is the key number you need.
Look for:
- Length
- Width
- Height
- Weight
The most important number is usually the longest packed dimension.
For example:
If your display ships at:
- 36” x 12” x 10”
You need a case that accommodates at least 36” internally.
Not exterior dimensions — internal space.
Step 2: Shop for a Wheeled Suitcase (Yes, Really)
We often direct customers to Amazon to look for:
✔ Large wheeled suitcases
✔ Rolling duffle bags
✔ Hard-shell travel cases
✔ Golf travel cases (great for longer hardware)
You do NOT need a custom-branded display case in most situations.
A durable, wheeled suitcase works extremely well for:
- Retractable banners
- Tabletop displays
- Small backdrops
- Lightweight hardware kits
- Most tube-size structures "under 10ft in size."
Step 3: Compare Interior Dimensions
When shopping online:
Look for:
- Interior dimensions (not just overall size)
- Depth clearance
- Zipper opening width
If your hardware ships at 38” long, do not buy a 36” suitcase.
Give yourself a few inches of buffer room.
Step 4: Consider Weight & Airline Travel
If you plan to fly with your display:
- Check airline weight limits (usually 50 lbs)
- Choose lightweight luggage
- Avoid overly bulky hard cases unless needed
Wheeled options make transport dramatically easier.
Step 5: Add Padding for Protection
Even with a suitcase, we recommend:
✔ Foam padding
✔ Bubble wrap
✔ Cloth wrapping around hardware
✔ Separating poles from graphics
Protecting corners and connection points is key.
When You May Need a Specialty Case
Some larger displays may require:
- Molded shipping cases
- Hard rotational molded cases
- Crate-style cases
If your display ships oversized or extremely heavy, contact us, and we can advise.
Watch the Video Guide
We put together a quick video walking through:
- How to measure your display
- What numbers to look at
- What kind of suitcase works best
- Real examples of what we recommend
👉 Watch the full video below before purchasing your case.
Why We Recommend This Approach
Instead of upselling expensive custom cases, we prefer practical solutions that:
- Save you money
- Are easy to replace
- Are easy to travel with
- Works for most standard displays
- You can use it for personal use, too
A $120–$200 wheeled suitcase often works just as well as a $600+ custom case.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right case is not about brand.
It’s about matching dimensions correctly.
Start with your display’s shipping size — then choose a case that fits those measurements comfortably.
If you’re unsure, send us your display model, and we’ll help you determine which case size to look for.
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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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