Whether this is your first trade show or your hundredth, knowing installation and dismantle (I&D) terminology helps you work more effectively with crews, contractors, and unions. Understanding the lingo ensures you know who is doing what, when work begins, and what rates apply.
Below is a glossary of common I&D terms used on the trade show floor.
Key Trade Show I&D Roles
- Carpenter– A skilled worker hired to unpack, install, assemble, dismantle, and re-pack exhibit properties.
- Craftsperson– A laborer who provides installation and dismantle services for trade show displays.
- Installation Contractor– A company that supervises and coordinates workers who install and dismantle exhibits.
- Labor– General term for contracted workers who perform I&D services.
- Union Steward/Shop Steward– An elected union official responsible for overseeing work and resolving disputes in the facility.
Common Processes and Instructions
- Installation/Setup/Assembly– The process of building a trade show exhibit according to drawings or instructions.
- Set-up Drawing– Instructions and diagrams showing how to properly install an exhibit.
- Dismantle/Tear Down/Take Down– The process of disassembling and re-packing an exhibit.
Labor Scheduling and Rules
- Labor Call– The specific time workers are scheduled to arrive at an exhibit space to begin setup or dismantle.
- Labor Desk– A designated location in the hall where exhibitors place labor orders or check in crews.
- Four-hour Call/Four-hour Mini– Minimum time for which union labor must be paid, even if the task is shorter.
- Work Rules– Regulations governing work hours, conditions, and pay structure for craftspersons.
- Work Time– The actual hours a worker is paid for services provided.
Pay Rates and Overtime
- Straight Time (ST)– Standard hourly rate for work performed during normal business hours.
- Overtime (OT)– Higher hourly rates charged for work outside regular business hours, including weekends and holidays.
- Double Time (DT)– Rates charged at twice the standard rate, often applied on Sundays or holidays (varies by state).
- Dead Time– Periods when workers cannot perform tasks due to factors beyond their control but are still on the clock.
Union and Legal Terms
- Labor Agreement/Union Contract– A formal agreement between an employer and a union that sets employment terms, work rules, and dispute resolution processes.
- Right to Work– Laws in certain U.S. states that allow employees to decide whether to join or support a union financially.
- Union– An organization of workers that protects rights, negotiates wages, and sets workplace standards.
Exhibitor Appointed Contractors
- Exhibitor Appointed Contractor (EAC)– A company other than the official contractor that an exhibitor hires to provide services such as I&D, A/V rental, photography, or plant rental.
Why This Matters
Understanding I&D terms helps exhibitors:
- Communicate clearly with contractors and union crews
- Avoid costly misunderstandings on labor calls and pay rates
- Prepare realistic budgets for setup and teardown
- Stay compliant with union rules and venue regulations
With clear communication and knowledge of industry terminology, you can manage your trade show installation and dismantle process smoothly and cost-effectively.
