If you often participate in trade shows, you know how crucial it is to keep your display materials safe during transport. Trade show shipping cases help keep your banners, stands, lights, and the remainder of your booth equipment safe during transport. Your treasured items could get dented, scratched, or whatever in a stolen case.  Not only do these cases shield your gear, but many also come with wheels, making it easier to move heavy or bulky items through busy venues. Choosing the right shipping case saves you time, effort, and money by preventing costly repairs or replacements. Here in this guide, we will explain some tips for picking out the perfect trade show shipping case to meet all your needs and keep your displays protected, no matter where trade shows take you. 

Understanding the Importance of Trade Show Shipping Cases

Why bother with trade show shipping cases? Picture this: you’ve spent weeks designing a stunning booth. This one has nice banners, shiny monitors, and your logo at the forefront, but if you get it in a dented or smashed state, you're already done. Just a good case takes the blow of bad handling, bumpy roads, or a klutzy airport staff. A shield for your display. Then there is the trip to the trade show. You are being rushed to set up, make meetings with clients & well, any quick snack. A good case means you do not have to be concerned about your equipment breaking. It is another thing off your plate. So let's talk until the perfect one for your setup.

Assessing Your Display Specifications

Every booth is different, kind of like snowflakes. Some are huge with tons of pieces, while others are just a banner and a table. Before you shop for trade show shipping cases, know what your display needs. Start with a few simple questions.

How big is your setup? Grab a tape measure and check your banners, stands, or lights. A 10-foot pop-up needs a bigger case than a single banner. Next, think about weight. Heavy gear needs a sturdy case. Also, are your items fragile? Monitors or glass panels need extra cushioning. I once saw a team scramble because their delicate display arrived cracked—don’t let that be you!

Also, consider the setup time. Do you need quick access to your stuff? Some cases open wide for easy unpacking. Knowing these details helps you choose wisely. It’s like picking the perfect lunchbox—you want it to hold everything just right.

Exploring Types of Trade Show Shipping Cases

There’s a whole world of trade show shipping cases out there. Each type fits different needs. Let’s break down the main options so you can see what’s best for you.

Hard Cases for Maximum Protection

Hard cases are the tough guys. Made from materials like plastic or metal, they’re built to take a beating. These are perfect for fragile or pricey items. For example, Orbus shipping cases use durable designs to keep your gear safe. You’ll find them in shapes like rectangles or cylinders, often with wheels for easy rolling.

But here’s the catch—hard cases can be heavy. They’re great for big displays or long trips. If you’ve got monitors or delicate parts, these are your go-tos.

Soft Cases for Lightweight Travel

Soft cases are the easygoing option. They’re usually fabric or nylon and super light. These work well for smaller setups, like banners or table throws. Many have straps or handles, so you can carry them like a backpack.

However, they don’t protect as well as hard cases. They’re better for short trips or less delicate gear. If your booth is simple, a soft case might be all you need.

Hybrid Cases for Versatility

Hybrid cases are like the best of both worlds. They’ve got a tough outer shell but aren’t as heavy as hard cases. Many come with wheels and padded insides. These are great for medium-sized displays. They offer solid protection without weighing you down.

Plus, they’re awesome for frequent travelers. They’re easier to move than bulky hard cases but safer than soft ones. Think about how often you travel when choosing.

Prioritizing Portability for Easy Transport

Trade shows often mean hitting the road—or the skies. Portability is a big deal when picking trade show shipping cases. Here’s what to keep in mind.

Wheels are a game-changer. Rolling your case through a crowded airport or convention center is so much easier. For instance, cases like the Orbus OC-HOP Square Shipping Case have wheels that make moving a snap. Also, check the weight. A heavy case can be a pain, especially if you’re traveling solo.

Handles matter too. Look for comfy grips or telescoping handles, like on suitcases. These are great for long walks to the exhibit hall. And don’t forget size. A case that’s too big won’t fit in your car or plane’s cargo hold. I learned this the hard way when a case wouldn’t fit my trunk—measure first!

Ensuring Robust Protection

Your booth needs to shine at the show. That’s why protection is key for trade show shipping cases. Here’s what to look for to keep your gear safe.

Check the material first. Hard cases made of roto-molded plastic are super tough. They handle rough shipping like champs. Soft cases should have thick padding for cushioning. Look for foam inserts inside—custom ones are best. They hold your gear snugly, like a cozy blanket. Orbus Displays offers cases with padded dividers for extra safety.

Also, think about the weather. If you’re at an outdoor show, water-resistant cases are a must. Spills or rain shouldn’t ruin your day. And locks? They’re a smart add-on. A lockable case keeps your stuff secure, especially in busy shipping hubs.

Balancing Budget and Frequency of Use

You don’t need to spend a fortune on trade show shipping cases. But think about how often you hit trade shows. If it’s once a year, a basic case might do. If you’re a road warrior, invest in something durable.

A high-quality hard case might cost more upfront. But it lasts for years, saving you in the long run. A cheap case might fail mid-show, leaving you stuck. I’ve seen exhibitors panic when a flimsy case broke—don’t risk it. Also, check for warranties. Brands like Orbus often back their cases with solid guarantees.

Focusing on User-Friendly Features

Setting up a booth is no picnic. Your case should make it easier, not harder. Look for trade show shipping cases that are easy to use. Wide openings are a win—they make packing a breeze. For soft cases, strong zippers are a must. Nobody wants a stuck zipper during setup.

Compartments are handy too. Pockets or dividers keep small parts, like screws or cables, organized. I once lost a tiny connector in a messy case—never again! Some cases even turn into counters. These are awesome for small booths. Orbus trade show displays often pair with cases that double as furniture, saving space.

Addressing Shipping and Storage Requirements

How are you getting to the show? This affects your choice of trade show shipping cases. Driving? A bigger case might work. Flying? Check airline size limits. Some cases are built for freight shipping, perfect for long-distance trips.

Storage is another factor. Where will you keep the case between shows? Compact cases fit better in small offices. Telescoping cases, like Orbus’s Largo, adjust to different sizes, saving space. Think about your storage setup to avoid clutter.

Opting for Customization

Your booth is one-of-a-kind. Your case should be too. Many trade show shipping cases offer customization. Custom foam inserts are a big win—they’re cut to fit your display perfectly. This keeps everything secure, no matter the shape.

You can also add branding. A case with your logo looks sharp and professional. It’s like wearing a nice suit—it makes an impression. Custom cases are great for unique setups or frequent exhibitors who want to stand out.

Practical Tips for Selecting the Right Case

Ready to pick your trade show shipping cases? Here are some tips to make it easy.

• Measure Everything: Double-check your display’s size. A too-small case won’t work.

• Test the Feel: If you can, try lifting or rolling the case. It should feel manageable.

• Check Reviews: See what other exhibitors say. Their experiences can guide you.

• Ask for Demos: Some brands let you test their cases. It’s like trying on shoes before buying.

• Think Ahead: Planning a bigger booth later? Get a case with room to grow.

Avoiding Common Selection Mistakes

It’s easy to slip up when choosing trade show shipping cases. Here’s what to watch out for.

Don’t just go for the cheapest option. A flimsy case might fail when you need it most. Also, check size limits. A huge case won’t fit in your car or plane. Weight matters too—heavy cases are tough to move. And don’t skip the warranty. It’s your safety net if something goes wrong.

Conclusion 

Choosing the right trade show shipping cases can make a big difference in how smoothly your events go. The right case protects your equipment, helps keep things organized, and makes transportation easier. Whether you need something lightweight or heavy-duty, it’s important to find a case that matches your display size and style. For reliable protection and customization options, consider the trusted solutions from Orbus Displays. We offer high-quality cases built to last and designed specifically for trade shows. Don’t risk your valuable displays — invest in a shipping case that works as hard as you do. Visit Orbus Displays today to explore our range and find the perfect case for your next event!