Labor and Union Rules
Every convention venue operates under specific labor rules. Understanding what you can and cannot do yourself is essential for avoiding delays and additional charges.
When You Need Union Labor
Most major convention venues in North America require union labor for:
- Operating forklifts, pallet jacks, and other powered equipment
- Unloading freight from trucks
- Installing and dismantling booths over a certain size or complexity
- Running electrical connections beyond simple plug-in
- Hanging signs, trusses, or rigging from the ceiling
- Operating scissor lifts or other aerial equipment
What Exhibitors Can Typically Do Themselves
Rules vary by venue and local labor jurisdiction, but exhibitors can usually handle the following without booking labor:
- Unpack and arrange product within their own booth
- Set up small pop-up displays and table-top exhibits
- Hand-carry small items (usually under 50 lbs or what one person can carry in a single trip)
- Plug in pre-wired equipment to existing outlets
Booking Labor
Labor is billed per hour with a minimum call (typically 1 hour for straight time, 4 hours for overtime or special calls). To avoid overtime rates, schedule your labor during straight-time hours — usually weekdays during standard daytime hours.
Order labor in advance to lock in discount rates and ensure availability. On-site labor orders are subject to higher rates and availability limits.
Labor Jurisdictions
Different unions handle different tasks — carpenters for booth builds, riggers for overhead work, electricians for power, teamsters for material handling. When you order labor, we'll assign the correct trade for the job.
Questions?
Labor rules differ at every venue. Contact us before your show to confirm what your specific venue allows and what you need to book.