A Quick Reference Guide to the Orange County Convention Center

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Transit Air Cargo’s Freight Management Program

Robert Sottosanti is not only the General Manager of Transit Air Cargo, he is also a Field Operations Specialist. We end our series about the On-Site Freight Management Program by meeting Robert.

On April 5, 2016 Robert celebrated 10 years with Transit Air Cargo! Currently, he is the General Manager of the company and is involved in all aspects of the operations of Transit Air Cargo. His knowledge of logistics extends farther back than his career with TAC; he worked in International Logistics: Air Imports and Customers Brokerage.

Taking on the additional duty of Field Operations Specialist at Transit Air Cargo means Robert is out of the office during move-ins and outs, but he likes the position because he gets to “see the exhibit portion come to life; the build up to the final assembly .” He quips that a show set-up is like, ”Extreme Makeover Home Edition for booths!” Robert also knows that the on-site freight positions are important for the trade show exhibitors and he enjoys “being there for any planned or unplanned event, quickly finding solutions. (It is) very effective for exhibitors whose time is already limited to deal with issues.” This is why the TAC program is so helpful to exhibitors.

When at a show, Robert enjoys, “Meeting the clients and getting to know them a little better than just the shipment and the shows. He also realizes that “ease of getting information when issues arise,” would be a benefit in the trade show industry to improve it for exhibitors. Because information is sometimes hard to obtain at shows, Robert suggests to exhibitors who are using a logistics company, such as TAC, to, “plan ahead, plan ahead, and plan ahead. Beyond that, communicate the exact needs, even when it is last-minute and let us handle the rest.” With Transit Air Cargo’s extensive experience in the trade show industry, it is easy to let us handle the rest, as Robert advises.

Staying busy inside the office and out at trade shows does not keep Robert from having hobbies, Currently he like to travel, saying , “There is lots to see in the world.” Robert states that he is a “newly married Orange County man who has to live near the coast; no inland residence if I can avoid it.” Luckily for Robert, the Transit Air Cargo Corporate Office is less than 20 minutes from the beach.

Transit Air Cargo is fortunate to have had Robert on the team for as long as we have and now in his additional role as Field Operations Specialist, he shares his logistics expertise with exhibitors.

 

A Quick Reference Guide to the Boston Convention and Exposition Center

The Boston Convention and Exhibition Center (BCEC) contains 516,000 sq. feet of exhibit space and is one of the largest exhibition halls in the Eastern United States. It only one of four cities in North America to be awarded a gold standard from the International Association of Congress Culture (AIPC)

The Boston Convention and Exposition Center

The BCEC was completed in 2004 amid controversy about its proximity to hotels. After a rocky start, the convention center saw an increase in shows and attendees when a new Westin opened. Beginning in August 2015, a diesel multiple unit service between the Back Bay (where the highest concentration of hotels are located) and the BCEC began operation, for a more convenient stay and trade show experience in Boston.

Getting Around Boston
The main airport in Boston is Logan International

Driving Directions
From Logan International Airport and Route 1A South:

• Take I-90 West/Ted Williams Tunnel to Exit 25 “South Boston”
• At the top of the ramp, turn right onto Congress Street
• Turn right onto D Street
• After the highway ramp, turn right onto Summer Street
• Go one intersection, turn left onto East Side Drive

Parking
To self-park ($15 and $30 for oversized vehicles), from Summer Street, turn onto East Side Drive, drive past the valet area, and continue straight along the side of the building. At the end of the building, make a right and go down the ramp. At the bottom of the ramp, turn left and you will see the entrance to the South Parking lot in front of you.

Valet parking is available during most events for $25. To access from Summer Street, turn onto East Side Drive and the valet area will be immediately on your right. We accept cash and all major credit cards.

BCEC Dining
While exhibiting at the BCEC, you will want to take advantage of the convention center cuisine and there are many options to choose from on your break from the booth.  You can choose snacks, a full lunch and even have options for gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and nut-free food.
Wicked Good Market– Variety of different option: salads, Asian bowls, burritos, pizza and pasta
Samuel Adams Pub-Local brew pub offering Sam Adams beer and traditional Boston fare
Outtakes-Coffee, snacks, pastries and packaged sandwiches.

Taxis, Uber ad Lyft
Taxi-Luck7Taxi
Uber-Uber Moves Boston
Lyft-For Boston

Boston Hotels
There are numerous hotel choices when staying Boston. The following are the closest hotels to the convention center:
Intercontinental Boston-0.1 miles from BCEC
The Langham, Bosotn- 0.1 miles from BCEC
Hilton Boston Downtown-0.2 miles from BCEC
Boston Harbor Hotel-0.2 miles from BCEC
Club Quarters Boston-0.2 miles from BCEC

Have a wonderful stay in Boston and a great show!

Transit Air Cargo’s Freight Management Program

In Transit Air Cargo’s continuing series introducing the On-Site Freight Management Program, this week we have the privilege of meeting Lauren Chapman, the Field Operations Supervisor.

Lauren resides in Las Vegas, NV., the most popular destination for trade shows and conventions. It is convenient to have such a capable Field Operations Supervisor on location with so many shows moving in and out on a daily basis. With her positive outlook and sunny disposition, Lauren instills trusts in clients; they know she will handle any concerns diplomatically and in a timely matter.

Lauren came to Transit Air Cargo eight months ago after working for Freeman Exposition as a freight supervisor, which means Lauren has relationships already established on the show floor. Following her hobby of photography, Lauren also represented Cashman Professional as a Photographic Wedding Consultant for 10 years.

People come to new careers for different reasons. Lauren says, “(the position with TAC) Interested me because of the opportunities available with the trade show industry.”  For her, there is also the element of education, which is one of the overarching goals of Transit Air Cargo. “My position is so important because it, fortunately, allows me to educate exhibitors about our company and some of the correct steps they need to take to ensure proper delivery of their freight.” In her eight months with us, Lauren has honed in on her favorite aspect of her position with TAC, which is, “Helping to educate and meeting new people all the time!” It is, after all, about the people!

With trade show experience and a solid knowledge of the trade show industry, I asked Lauren what she would like to see happen in the trade show industry that would improve the show for exhibitors. Lauren said, “I would like to see more substantial communication available for all exhibitors, attendees and representatives. Giving everyone, especially exhibitors, the opportunity to concentrate more on the show and their networking!” Her point is valid. With so many forms and service contractors on the show floor, precious time is used at the service desk and the paperwork minutia, instead of working the floor for leads. Transit Air Cargo’s freight managers alleviate some of the stress with their professionalism. On the other hand, what can exhibitors do to ensure the best shipment possible from their logistics company? Lauren’s advice is simple and useful, “Read everything from all the companies they are using as tools for a successful show, especially their logistics company.”  Transit Air Cargo sends out a packet with every shipment booked for the exhibitor’s convenience.

Working in the trade show industry, Lauren has visited many convention centers and while they all can start seeming the same after a awhile, industry professionals have their favorites and ones that are more difficult to navigate. According to Lauren, “The easiest convention center to navigate…is the Las Vegas Convention Center. The most difficult is the Moscone Center in San Francisco.”

There are also shows that stand out to trade show people more than others. Lauren is no different and has her favorites. She says, “My favorite show would have to be CES. I do enjoy seeing all the new products, prototypes and displays for that show. I did however have a great time at Winter NAMM this year. It was so much fun being around all the musicians and artists there!” Both are awesome shows and Transit Air Cargo proudly ships to both.

With so many trade shows and clients, Lauren still makes time for herself and her hobbies. Besides being, “a photographer at heart,” Lauren says she has a “huge fondness for fishing and being with the people I love!” There’s her sunny outlook coming out, again.

An asset to her customers and to Transit Air Cargo, Lauren Chapman puts us all at ease as she handles move ins and outs efficiently, while establishing lasting relationships within the industry.

A Quick Reference Guide to the Anaheim Convention Center

Welcome to Anaheim, one of the most popular cities to visit thanks to Mr. Walt Disney.  This guide was created with the intention to give people a brief overview of what Anaheim has to offer both inside and outside of the convention center.

There are many websites to browse with valuable content, and this guide compiles some of that information and simplifies it for you, all in one place. We hope you find this guide helpful and informative.

http://www.anaheimconventioncenter.com/1117/Anaheim-Convention-Center-Arena

Enjoy your stay – we wish you a successful event!

Inside the Anaheim Convention Center
Parking
Check your Exhibitor Prospectus for your special daily parking rate. Exhibitor parking includes unlimited in and out privileges through the West Street entrance. Exhibitors must present their daily paid parking receipt and their Exhibitor Badge to the parking cashier in order to be granted re-entry.
Services
USB charging stations for your mobile devices
Full service print center. You may also pre-order your print jobs to have them ready for your event and also to avoid shipping fees.

Where to Eat/Entertainment
Since ACC is located close to one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations, there is no shortage of restaurants or entertainment. Restaurants line Katella Ave. and the Disneyland/ACC area.
Anaheim Packing House- Food, bars, treats
Anaheim Garden Walk- Dining and shopping options
Downtown Disney- Food, ice cream, jazz lounge, House of Blues

Approximate Travel Rates

Orange County Airport Shuttle Services start at $10 per person (one way). Disneyland Resort Express Bus:$19/$17 per adult – one way ($29/$21 round trip). Taxi: metered rates, ranging from $35-$65 per car or van load/one way. Rental Car, Van or SUV: $50-$95 per car/daily Limousine Service: approx. $115 Town car or SUV: approx. $50-$85 Taxi: 714.243.8525

Los Angeles Int’l Airport Shuttle Services start at $16 per person (one way). Disneyland Resort Express Bus: $24/$21 per person – one way ($33/$25 round trip). Taxi: metered rates, ranging from $90-$130 per car or van load (one way. Rental Car, Van or SUV: $50-$130 per car or van/daily. Limousine Service: approx. $140 Town car or SUV: approx. $90 Shuttle: 714.719.7798

Long Beach Airport Shuttle Services start at $35 for the first person & $10 each additional person (one way). Taxi: metered rates, ranging from $45-$80 per car or van (one way) Rental Car, Van or SUV: $75-$100 per car or van/daily. Limousine Service: approx. $110, per car/one way Town car or SUV: approx. $90

 

Transit Air Cargo’s On-Site Freight Management Program

You have shipped your cargo through a trade show logistics company and now you are at the show, but is your freight? How can you check to make sure it has arrived on time and intact? Calling your logistic s service may be out of the question, if it is a weekend or after business hours.

Transit Air Cargo offers a unique service for its customer’s; The On-site Freight Management Program, which is available at most major shows. The Freight Management team is at the show site overseeing the unloading and count pieces of your shipment before it hits the floor and is there to make sure your shipment back is accounted for and is loaded on the truck. If there are any issues, the Transit Air Cargo On-site Freight Managers will notify you and handle it professional until it is resolved. You will have access to your manager’s phone number and their presence at you show will make things run smoother.

In our new series of articles, Transit Air Cargo will introduce you to the On-Site Freight Management team, beginning with Kim Peace, the Field Operations Manager. She was kind enough to talk with me. Read about her fascinating career and life below.

How long have you worked at TAC? 
KP: 13 years

Prior to coming to TAC, what was your profession?
KP: I was Assistant to the Southeast Exhibit Services Executive for Yellow Freight Trade show Division, and was their on site liaison for Shepard Exposition Services.  Prior to working with Yellow, I was a freelance trade show coordinator, working with exhibitors and General Service Contractors such as GES, Expo Group, Hargrove, and Champion.  My experience also includes history as a full time Exhibit Services Representative with GES in Las Vegas.

What attracted you to the position of Field Operations/On-Site Freight Management?
KP: I saw a company that valued her employees and offered a competitive service to exhibitors.  I was allowed the opportunity to fine tune a department and develop policies that fulfilled my desire to not only expand, but to polish an already unique service offered to our customers.

Why is your position important for trade show exhibitors?
KP: I manage a department that is unique from anything any of our competitors offer.  My position allows me the opportunity to communicate with exhibitors on a daily basis, helping them with their shipping questions and concerns.  Many of our customers know me by name and keep my cell number close, because they know that no matter where they are at any time, I am almost always available to assist them.

What is your favorite aspect/duty of your position?
KP: I enjoy helping exhibitors, when they are at a loss for what to do when something takes place at a show.  My background in shipping, as well as trade show production has provided me with the experience and knowledge needed to help exhibitors resolve not only shipping, but overall trade show challenges.

What is the one thing you would love to see happen in the trade show industry that would improve it for exhibitors?
KP: Customer service from the GSC’s has come a long way in the past several years.  Customer Service, Floor Managers, and Service kiosks are now on many show floors to assist exhibitors with questions.  But, if I had to choose one thing that would make things a little easier for the exhibitors working their booth at a show, it would be to somehow make the outbound shipping process a little simpler for the less experienced.  A simplified process for completing outbound shipping documents aka “Material Handling Agreements” would prevent much of the rerouted or “forced” freight that every show has.  If exhibitors were permitted to complete an Online MHA in advance of the show’s move in, many of the sales reps that are often left in the booth to break down and pack up, would not be faced with the challenge of completing paperwork with which they are unfamiliar.  Trade show managers could include the MHA in the instructions packet that is often given to their on-site sales team, with instructions to simply finish the piece counts and turn in to a service desk.  Doing this, of course would have its challenges as well.  Exhibitors are not given outbound MHA’s from the GSC, if there is an outstanding balance with no form of payment on file.

What is the best advice you can give to exhibitors who are using a logistics company, such as TAC, to ensure the best shipment possible?
KP: When packing your booth during the move out of a show, make sure everything is clearly labeled and that your piece count and destination address is correct on the MHA.  Equally importantly, is to make sure an MHA is actually completed and turned in to the Service Desk.  If the carrier name is not placed on the MHA, the General Service Contractor (GSC) will not release the shipment, but will reroute via their choice of carrier.

In your experience, what convention center is the most difficult to navigate?
KP: There are several which are difficult, but the most challenging would have to be McCormick in Chicago.  This center, built in the early 1900’s is actually four buildings that are interconnected and run either along Lake Michigan or close to it.  The proximity to the Lake makes working the docks in the winter extremely cold and windy.  Shows that consume the entire center are a real bear to work.  Almost as challenging is the Orlando Convention Center.  The original center (now known as the north/south building) was always known for being extremely long.  But now, with the addition of the West Building across Universal Drive, a person needs to be in very good physical shape to walk the entire length.

Which is the easiest?
KP: One would think that the smaller the center, the easier to it would be to work.  This is not necessarily the case.  Many hotels have convention centers and although they might be easy for walking around, the challenge of move in and move out often lie in the lack of easy access to the docks for our drivers.  Sharp turns, low ceilings, and short dock space can create difficulties for even the most experienced drivers.  All things considered, I would have to say that the easiest center I have worked would probably be the Cobb Galleria Center in Atlanta.  This is a small center with multiple halls, but adequate docks for even the largest trucks.  The fact that I know this center very well and have done over 100 shows there, also helps!

If you have a favorite show that you love working, which is it? Why?
KP: I don’t believe there is any particular show that I enjoy more than all the others.  A more accurate question would be who my favorite GSC is to work with.  Although I enjoy the exhibits and the industries reflected in many shows, my work usually brings me onto the show floors during the set up and on the last day, just prior to the closing.  I don’t often have time to wonder around in a show that is open and enjoy it as an attendee normally would.  If I did find time to enjoy a show while it was in full swing, I would probably choose to see the music industry shows, because I was a music education major in college and love many kinds of music.  I have also enjoyed shows that promote companies in the special events industry, such asTS2 and Expo!Expo!.  These are shows that I have been to many times as both an exhibitor and a shipping company with customers on the floor.  They are filled with exhibitors who, like myself, are in the trade show and special events industry and I enjoy being around fellow trade show professionals in a more neutral arena.

Please tell me about your hobbies and a little about your life outside of Transit Air Cargo.
KP: Since 1985, I have been in the special events industry, whether it was the planning of a corporate open house, organizing a fundraiser, bringing vendors together for an open air market, coordinating and directing weddings or working a trade show in any variety of positions.  Although I have managed to land myself in the logistical side of trade shows for the past 15 years, I still enjoy organizing events for non-trade show related groups such as church or local police departments.  When I am not working a trade show for Transit Air, I can often be found directing and coordinating a wedding, planning a private party, bringing people together to promote and support local law enforcement or working on any number of other special events.  I enjoy world travel with family, singing with various groups, decorating cakes (when my wrists will allow it), and sharing our photo booth with those celebrating special events.  I enjoy a very busy and active life and show no sign of slowing down any time soon!

As you can tell, Kim is passionate about life and her job. When you meet her, you will notice that right away about her. Transit Air Cargo is proud to have her as the Field Operations Manager

Be sure to check back next week, when Transit Air Cargo introduces you to Lauren Chapman, the Field Operations Supervisor.

A Quick Reference Guide to McCormick Place

Do you have an upcoming show at McCormick Place? Read on for valuable information for your visit to McCormick Place and have a great show!

McCormick Place, Chicago
http://mccormickplace.com/

McCormick Place, located in Chicago, IL is the largest convention center in North America. The center was commissioned by Robert R. McCormick, publisher of the Chicago Tribune. Ground breaking for the facility occurred in 1958 and by November 1960, McCormick Place opened to the public. A fire in 1967 destroyed the exposition center and the rebuilt portion opened in 1971. There have been many modifications and additions to McCormick Place over the years and it remains one of the most popular destinations for trade shows, conventions and exhibitions in the world.

Getting There and Parking:

There are three parking lots at McCormick Place. Your show may have set up discounted parking rates for exhibitors. Consult your Exhibitor Prospectus or Show Management regarding parking rates.

Parking Lot A: 2301 South Prairie Avenue, Chicago, IL 60616

FROM O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (22 Miles), NORTHWEST OR THE NORTH:
Follow I-190 East to I-90 East. This turns into I-90/94 East (Dan Ryan Expressway). Keeping to the right, follow to I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway). Exit at Martin L. King Drive (Exit #293D) and follow signs to Lot A entrance ramp located immediately to your left.

FROM THE WEST:
Take I-290 East (Eisenhower Expressway) to I-94 East (Dan Ryan Expressway). Keeping to the right, follow to I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway). Exit at Martin L. King Drive (Exit #293D) and follow signs to Lot A entrance ramp located immediately to your left.

FROM MIDWAY AIRPORT (10 Miles) OR SOUTHWEST::
Take I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway). Exit at Martin L. King Drive (Exit #293D) and follow signs to Lot A entrance ramp located immediately to your left.

FROM THE SOUTH OR INDIANA via I-80/94:
From I-80/94, exit at I-94 West (Bishop Ford Expressway) and proceed on I-94 West (Dan Ryan Expressway). Follow to I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway). Exit at Martin L. King Drive (Exit #293D) and follow signs to Lot A entrance ramp located immediately to your left.

FROM INDIANA-SKYWAY:
Take I-90 West (Indiana Tollway turns into the Chicago Skyway). Merge onto I-90/94 West (Dan Ryan Expressway). Exit at I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway). Exit at Martin L. King Drive (Exit #293D) and follow signs to Lot A entrance ramp located immediately to your left.

FROM NORTH LAKE SHORE DRIVE (US-41):
From Lake Shore Drive, exit at 31st Street and turn right (West). Turn right again on Martin L. King Drive. Turn left on 24th Place. Follow signs to Lot A.

FROM SOUTH LAKE SHORE DRIVE (US-41):
From Lake Shore Drive, exit at 31st Sreet. and turn left (West). Turn right on Martin L. King Drive. Turn left on 24th Place. Follow signs to Lot A.

FROM CONGRESS PARKWAY:
From Congress Parkway, turn right onto Michigan Avenue Proceed south to Cermak Road. (E. 22nd Street). Turn left on Cermak Road, to Martin Luther King Drive. Follow signs to Lot A

Parking Lot B: 3050 South Moe Drive, Chicago, IL 60616

From Downtown Chicago
Proceed South on Lake Shore Drive, and exit at 31st Street. Make a right turn at the light. Make another immediate hard right turn onto Moe Drive (the McCormick Place service drive that is West of Lake Shore Drive). Proceed North on Moe Drive, to the parking attendant booths on the left side of the service drive.

From I-55 (Stevenson) Expressway
Proceed South on Lake Shore Drive, and exit at 31st Street. Make a right turn at the light. Make another immediate hard right turn onto Moe Drive (the McCormick Place service drive that is West of Lake Shore Drive). Proceed North on Moe Drive, to the parking attendant booths on the left side of the service drive.

From I-90/94 (Kennedy/Edens) Expressway
Proceed South on I-90/94 to I-55 (Stevenson Expressway). Proceed East on I-55 to Lake Shore Drive. Proceed South on Lake Shore Drive, and exit at 31st Street. Make a right turn at the light. Make another immediate hard right turn onto Moe Drive (the McCormick Place service drive that is West of Lake Shore Drive). Proceed North on Moe Drive, to the parking attendant booths on the left side of the service drive.

From I-290 (Eisenhower) Expressway
Proceed East on Congress Parkway to Columbus Drive. Proceed South on Columbus Drive, which will merge into Lake Shore Drive. Proceed South on Lake Shore Drive, and exit at 31st Street. Make a right turn at the light. Make another immediate hard right turn onto Moe Drive (the McCormick Place service drive that is West of Lake Shore Drive). Proceed North on Moe Drive, to the parking attendant booths on the left side of the service drive.

From Northbound Lake Shore Drive
Exit at 31st Street and make a left turn at the traffic light. Proceed and go to the next traffic light. Make an immediate hard right turn onto Moe Drive (the McCormick Place service drive that is West of Lake Shore Drive). Proceed North on Moe Drive, to the parking attendant booths on the left side of the service drive.

From 31st Street
Proceed East on 31st Street to Moe Drive, that is the McCormick Place service drive immediately West of the 31st Street exit on Lake Shore Drive. Proceed North on Moe Drive, to the parking attendant booths on the left side of the service drive.

Parking Lot C: Fort Dearborn Drive, Chicago, IL 60616

FROM O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (22 Miles), NORTHWEST OR THE NORTH: :
Follow I-190 East to I-90 East. This turns into I-90/94 East (Dan Ryan Expressway). Keeping to the right, follow to I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway) onto US-41 South (Lake Shore Drive). Exit at 31st St. and turn left over the Lake Shore Dr. Bridge to Ft. Dearborn Drive. Turn left and follow signs to Lot C.

FROM THE WEST:
Take I-290 East (Eisenhower Expressway) to I-94 East (Dan Ryan Expressway). Keeping to the right, follow to I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway) onto US-41 South (Lake Shore Drive). Exit at 31st St. and turn left over the Lake Shore Dr. Bridge to Ft. Dearborn Drive. Turn left and follow signs to Lot C.

FROM MIDWAY AIRPORT (10 Miles) OR SOUTHWEST: :
Take I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway) to Lake Shore Drive South. Exit at 31st Street and turn left over the Lake Shore Dr. Bridge to Ft. Dearborn Drive. Turn left and follow signs to Lot C.

FROM THE SOUTH OR INDIANA via I-80/94:
From I-80/94, exit at I-94 West (Bishop Ford Expressway) and proceed on I-94 West (Dan Ryan Expressway). Follow to I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway) to US-41 South (Lake Shore Drive). Exit at 31st St. and turn left over the Lake Shore Dr. Bridge to Ft. Dearborn Drive. Turn left and follow signs to Lot C.

FROM INDIANA SKYWAY:
Take I-90 West (Indiana Tollway turns into the Chicago Skyway). Merge onto I-90/94 West (Dan Ryan Expressway). Exit at I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway) to US-41 South (Lake Shore Drive). Exit at 31st St. and turn left over the Lake Shore Dr. Bridge to Ft. Dearborn Drive. Turn left and follow signs to Lot C.

FROM NORTH LAKE SHORE DRIVE (US-41):
From US-41 (Lake Shore Drive), exit at 31st St. and turn left over the Lake Shore Dr. Bridge to Ft. Dearborn Drive. Turn left again and follow signs to Lot C.

FROM SOUTH LAKE SHORE DRIVE (US-41):
From US-41 (Lake Shore Drive), exit at 31st St. Stay to the right onto Ft. Dearborn Drive. Follow signs to Lot C.

FROM CONGRESS PARKWAY:
From Congress Parkway, turn right onto Columbus Drive (South). Merge with US-41 South (Lake Shore Drive). Exit at 31st St. Turn left over the Lake Shore Dr. Bridge to Ft. Dearborn Drive. Turn left again and follow signs to Lot C.

Hotels:

Chicago boats many fine hotels. While your show probably has set up a discount rate at the host hotel, you may opt to stay at another venue. Below are some options. You may find good rates on sites such as Expedia and Travelocity.

Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

The Wheeler Mansion

Chicago South Loop Hotel

Hilton Chicago-Michigan Ave Cultural Mile

Best Western Grant Park Hotel

Dining at McCormick Place

You’ve been on your feet on the show floor all day. Time for a break! Check out the numerous dining options inside McCormick place and the adjacent Hyatt Regency.

South Hall Food Court

23^rd Street Café
Manny’s
Starbucks Coffee
Ryba’s Fudge Shop
Jamba Juice
South Hall Café A1 and Café A2
Connie’s Pizza
McDonald’s Express

West Hall Food Court

West Hall Café F1 and Café F2
La Brea Bakery Café
Lakeside Café

Hyatt McCormick Place Dining Options

Shore
Forno
M/X Lounge

Post-Trade Show Musts

Your trade show is over! You and your team successfully planned and executed a great show complete with networking, selling and generating leads. Though exhausted when you return to the office, your trade show is far from over. There are post-show activities that you and your team need to complete to bring the show full circle.

After Action Meeting:

You and your team should sit down within two days of the commencement of the show to discuss wins, areas of improvement and to parse out post show tasks. A quick Power Point presentation is helpful with visuals of your booth and your competitor’s booths. Are their changes that can be made to your booth for the next show? Was your raffle successful? Did you bring enough collateral and merchandise, or did you bring too much? Were the attendees the right audience for your company? Will this show be on next year’s calendar? Keep the notes from the meeting in the trade show folder as a reference for next year.

Social Media

While you undoubtedly posted live Tweets and Instagram pictures during the show, post-show social media recapping the success and sharing the enthusiasm with your followers is extremely important. Keeping your social network involved with your company’s activities will gain even more interest and possible sales. Highlight fun and interesting moments on Twitter. Create Face Book albums of all the shows you attend. Take video at your shows of your speakers and post them on your You Tube channel for maximum exposure.

Lead Generation follow up:

From your LRS you will receive a list of names from the badges you scanned. Your sales team may have made notes about delineating the leads as hot, warm, or cold, or about what product they showed an interest. From these notes, give the hot leads to your sales team for immediate follow-up. Also, send an email blast to them within five days. Warm leads should receive a different email that contains a resource, such as a white paper or useful tips about your industry. Cold leads should receive yet another email and be placed on a “nurture” list that you revisit every few months. From the clicks on the links in your emails, you will be able to adjust those leads into different categories. Make sure your sales team reports any sales to you, so you can monitor the ROI of the show.

 Snail Mail Still Exists

A hand written note sent via snail mail thanking a lead goes a long way, as it shows a level of personalization that an email does not convey. If a contact requested more information (flyers, brochures, sample products) send those within a week of the end of the show. Was your raffle winner not present for the drawing? Get their prize out to them as soon as possible with a congratulatory note.

It’s easy to forget about post show activities, but they assist in monitoring if a show was successful or not. They also generate team momentum that can be channeled into the planning of your next show.

Transit Air Cargo-Trade Show Concierge

Trade shows are a specific event with their own rigorous deadlines and procedures to which you must adhere. They can be overwhelming, expensive and confusing even for experienced trade show planners. Every show is different, with different opportunities and expectations.

There are many details that need to be handled pre, during and post trade show execution: Completing service kit forms; scheduling round-trip shipping for your booth and materials; ordering all your booth services, scheduling I&D; purchasing promotional items; ensuring your shipments have arrived on time and in one piece, and a multitude of other things.

Wouldn’t it be great if there was a company that acted as a trade show concierge? A company that has the industry knowledge and a staff dedicated to answering all your trade show planning questions?

Transit Air Cargo has staff experts in logistics, trade show exhibiting and even marketing. With over 25 years in the industry and a team comprised of years of trade show experience, TAC is ready to answer your questions and help you through your trade show planning journey. By using TAC, not just as your premium logistics provider, but as a resource for your other trade show needs, your staff can focus on more of their job duties that require their attention. Your staff doesn’t need to be bogged down in the quagmire of trade show planning.  TAC even provides an on-site service manager at most major shows, so your team can focus on lead generation and sales. Our sister company, Trans-Exhibit Solutions, can help you with booth design or rentals and we can even warehouse your booth and materials between shows.

Other Resources:

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There are many authorities in all the different divisions of trade show planning, but finding a company that knows about all aspects and that you can trust can be a challenge. Transit Air Cargo has earned that trust from thousands of satisfied clients. Find out why during the planning of your next show.