Ordering convention center electrical may sound simple, but it often confuses exhibitors. Buying power is not the same as paying for installation. Many exhibitors miss this detail until they see extra charges on their bill. Understanding the difference between ordering convention center electrical and scheduling electrical labor can save significant time and money.
Regional Differences Matter
In some southern U.S. cities, the process feels straightforward. You order a unit of electricity, and crews install it at your booth with no extra charge. However, in most large convention cities including Las Vegas, San Francisco, Chicago, and New York… you face additional labor costs. Ordering convention center electrical in these cities usually means hiring union labor for installation.
Union Labor Costs Add Up
Union labor often drives costs higher, especially in cities with strict requirements. Rates also vary depending on the day or time you schedule installation. Weekend or late-night work often comes with premium pricing. When ordering convention center electrical, always check how union rules affect your setup.
Read the Forms Carefully
Exhibitor service manuals and order forms outline the requirements. Many exhibitors skip the fine print and get surprised later. Review every form to see whether installation comes with the electricity order or requires a separate request. Ordering convention center electrical without reading the details can result in delays or unexpected fees.
Work With Your Exhibit House
Exhibit houses deal with these forms daily. They know how to interpret requirements and estimate electrical needs accurately. Rely on their expertise to avoid mistakes. By involving them early, you simplify the process of ordering convention center electrical and keep your budget under control.
Bottom Line
Electricity is essential for every booth, but costs vary by city and rules. Plan ahead, read forms, and lean on experts to ensure you get the power you need without financial surprises. For detailed answers on power sources, labor, installation timing, and venue-specific rules, check ExhibitorOnline’s “Balance of Power: Part One” article on ordering and managing in-booth electrical.
