Check the regulations about delivering exhibit shipments from the loading bay to your stand space, is a common expense in US trade shows. That expense may be combined with other fees, or require no charge, in other countries.
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Avoid surprises by inquiring about what materials and services are subject to VAT (value added tax) or GST (goods and services tax) – at what rate, and whether or how you may file for reimbursement.
3. Get help from experts
Consider working with an experienced exhibition stand company that has its own international offices. Customs can be a complex and lengthy process. Exhibition plans often need to be submitted along with documentation to show management to verify it meets local electrical and fire safety regulations.
Nomadic has multiple offices and representation worldwide in key trade show cities like Las Vegas, New York, DC, London and Frankfurt. This enables us to coordinate international events, display design, production, rentals, graphics and logistical support from the locations closest to client events so we can save them time, money and stress.
4. Basic Business Etiquette
Before you leave, learn as much as you can about the culture of your trade show audience. When in doubt, err on the side of formality. In general, smart business attire is recommended.
Greet visitors using their last name until you are asked to address someone by their first name. Don’t rush through introductions. Age demands a higher level of respect in Asia, so address older people first. European businesspeople often greet one another with a firm handshake, whereas Asian countries tend to avoid body contact. Asking personal questions of any kind may be viewed as inappropriate.
5. Take Your Time
You want to build new relationships through face-to-face contact. Many cultures attitude toward time is more relaxed and the conversation more casual. Take time to get to know visitors before diving into a sales pitch. Refreshments can encourage a more relaxed conversation so on-stand hospitality is often incorporated into the exhibition stand design. Offer visitors comfortable seating, a hot or cold drink and light snacks.
In general, American trade show hours are shorter than in other countries. Adapt your stand schedule accordingly to incorporate frequent breaks for your staff. Jet lag combined with longer hours on your feet is a recipe for fatigue.
American exhibitors often hold brief conversations with many visitors and collect their information to contact them after the show. Exhibitions are used for in-depth discussions or to close business deals in some cultures. Lastly, don’t let a lengthy evaluation process frustrate you; some cultures don’t make decisions at a rapid pace.
So, if you are planning on exhibiting abroad, do spend time finding out the logistical issues you may face and look into the local culture to ensure you get the best from your show.
Please feel free to contact us to see if we can help as we have an experienced team ready to offer you advice.
