Compare the scope.
Then compare the price.
Send each booth builder the same brief. A useful proposal identifies what is included, what is excluded and who owns every show-day responsibility.
Start my booth projectWhat should a booth builder quote include?
A comparable booth quote defines the design, materials, graphics, furniture, technical requirements, delivery and labor scope. It also names exclusions, approval milestones and post-show responsibilities. A total without those details is difficult to evaluate.
Use this checklist with each proposal
| Check | Request in writing | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Allocation | Show, venue, hall, booth number, dimensions and open sides | The design must match the actual space |
| Design | Dimensioned plan, elevations, finishes and revision allowance | A rendering alone does not define the build |
| Ownership | Purchased, rented and retained items listed separately | You need to know what remains yours |
| Graphics | Artwork owner, sizes, proofing and production deadlines | Late changes may affect cost and delivery |
| Equipment | Furniture, AV, power and data requirements | Display hardware needs supporting services |
| Freight | Collection, shipping, delivery target and return arrangements | Transport and venue handling are different tasks |
| Labor | Installation, dismantling, supervision and schedule assumptions | Unspecified hours create an incomplete comparison |
| Show services | Responsible party for electrical, internet, rigging and cleaning | These may require separate orders |
| Approvals | Who prepares and submits applicable drawings and forms | Organizer requirements remain separate from design approval |
| After the show | Packing, storage, refurbishment, rental return or disposal | The project continues after visitors leave |
Questions for your shortlist
Ask to see relevant completed work and confirm permission to use any client references. Ask who will be responsible on site, what happens when the schedule changes and how additional work is documented. Check whether the proposed materials and equipment are specified or merely illustrated.
When reviewing local claims, ask what the local presence actually covers: fabrication, storage, project management or installation coordination. A city in a marketing headline does not establish the supplier’s delivery scope.
Separate transport from material handling
Ask the shipping provider where its responsibility ends, then check how freight moves from the receiving point to the booth. Include empty-container handling and outbound arrangements in the discussion. Use your event’s service manual to establish the applicable process and supplier responsibilities.
Normalize the numbers
For each supplier, write down the package price, separately quoted services, unknown costs and exclusions. Do not record an unknown cost as zero. Reconcile different materials, rental periods and installation assumptions before comparing totals.
The booth cost guide includes a hypothetical comparison. Review rental versus ownership across your full show calendar, not only one package price.
Use the correct event manual
SEMA, CES and IAAPA provide exhibitor resources that help you identify relevant forms and services. Your builder’s proposal should state who reviews and completes the applicable requirements.
Check your actual show requirements in the SEMA exhibitor manual, CES venue manuals or IAAPA exhibitor manual. An example layout is not organizer approval.
Turn the shortlist into a clear brief
Start with your event and footprint, add the activities visitors should complete, and list equipment before selecting finishes. Our brief builder creates a file you can download and send to your chosen suppliers. It does not send an enquiry for you.
By Custom Booth Builders · Updated · Independent planning guidance
Before you
take the floor.
How many booth builder quotes should I compare?
Compare enough qualified suppliers to understand the design and scope differences. The useful comparison is a consistent brief and complete responsibilities, not simply the number of quotes.
Does a turnkey quote include everything?
Do not assume it does. Ask the supplier to list exclusions and identify who orders and pays for each venue or organizer service.
Have a show in mind?
Let’s shape your booth.
Turn your show, space and goals into a project brief you can download and share with a builder.