12 Months Out
- Confirm show dates and booth size
- Set exhibit budget (booth + travel + staffing)
- Book booth space with show organizer
- Contact AMG for initial design consultation
8-10 Months Out
- Finalize booth design and approve 3D renderings
- Begin fabrication
- Book hotel and flights
- Order promotional materials and giveaways
4-6 Months Out
- Graphics production
- Confirm AV and electrical requirements
- Register staff badges
- Book lead capture system
2-3 Months Out
- Booth assembly and pre-show walkthrough at AMG facility
- Finalize freight logistics (advance warehouse or direct-to-show)
- Train booth staff on messaging and product demos
- Send pre-show emails to registered attendees
2 Weeks Out
- Ship booth to advance warehouse (if applicable)
- Confirm I&D schedule with AMG crew
- Pack all materials: chargers, tape, cleaning supplies, backup graphics
- Print show-day contact sheet (AMG supervisor + venue contacts)
Show Week
- Arrive early for install walkthrough
- Final booth inspection with AMG supervisor
- Daily booth cleaning and restocking plan
- Post-show: dismantle and freight-out coordination
Post-Show
- Booth inspection and repair assessment
- Warehouse storage or return shipping
- Lead follow-up within 48 hours
- Team debrief: what worked, what to improve
Download the full 47-item checklist as a PDF or contact AMG for a customized version specific to your show.
Calvin Yee
Founder, Artsolute Media Group
Author of the AEDM exhibition design method. M.S. Exhibition Design, Cal State Fullerton. Building trade show exhibits since 2009.