Labor Requirements and Costs for Trade Show Booth Setup in Chicago

• Oct 17,2025

Exhibiting at a trade show in Chicago, particularly at McCormick Place—the largest convention center in North America—offers businesses unique opportunities to showcase their products and services to a global audience. However, navigating the complexities of booth setup, union labor requirements, and associated costs can be challenging. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what exhibitors need to know to ensure a smooth and cost-effective setup process.

Understanding Booth Setup Requirements in Chicago

Union Labor Regulations

Chicago's trade show venues, especially McCormick Place, operate under strict union labor agreements. These regulations dictate who can perform certain tasks during booth setup and teardown. For instance:

• Carpenters are responsible for assembling and dismantling booth structures, including the installation of pipe and drape systems, flooring, and signage.

• Electricians handle all electrical work, such as lighting installations and power connections.

• Teamsters manage material handling, including the transportation of booth materials from the loading dock to the exhibit hall.

• Riggers are tasked with installing heavy equipment and rigging for overhead signage. Understanding these jurisdictional rules is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with union agreements.

Self-Setup Options

While labor is required for certain tasks, exhibitors may perform some work themselves under specific conditions. For booths up to 300 net square feet, exhibitors or full-time employees can erect the booth using hand tools, ladders, and power tools designated safe by McCormick Place. However, power tools and ladders require union-certified workers.

Cost Breakdown for Booth Setup

Labor Costs

Labor constitutes a significant portion of the total booth setup expenses. The rates vary based on the type of work and the time of day:

• Carpenters: $55–$60 per hour (straight time), $80–$85 per hour (overtime), $110–$115 per hour (double time).

• Electricians: $55–$60 per hour (straight time), $83–$90 per hour (overtime), $110–$115 per hour (double time).

• Teamsters: $48–$50 per hour (straight time), $73–$75 per hour (overtime), $97–$100 per hour (double time).

• Riggers: $50 per hour (straight time), $75 per hour (overtime), $100 per hour (double time).

Most labor calls require a minimum of four hours, even if the task is completed sooner.

Booth Rental and Construction Costs

The cost of renting or constructing a booth varies depending on size, design complexity, and materials used:

● 10'x10' Booth: $6,000–$7,500.

● 10'x20' Booth: $10,000+.

● 20'x20' Booth: $29,000–$65,000.

These prices typically include basic furnishings, graphics, and flooring, but may not cover additional services like utilities or material handling.

Material Handling (Drayage)

Material handling fees, also known as drayage, are charged based on the weight of the materials being transported:

● $0.50–$0.70 per pound for standard materials.

● Large or irregularly shaped shipments may incur higher fees. It's essential to plan shipments in advance to reduce costs and prevent delays.

Additional Services

Other services that may incur additional costs include:

● Electrical/Plumbing Connections: $100–$500+.

● Internet/Wi-Fi Access: $150–$500.

● Booth Cleaning: $100–$250 per day.

● Storage Fees: Varies based on size and duration.

These services are often provided by the general contractor or the venue and should be arranged in advance to ensure availability.

Recommended Local Booth Setup Companies

Partnering with experienced local companies can streamline the setup process and ensure compliance with labor regulations. Below are the top providers in Chicago:

1. NewPowerExhibition

NewPowerExhibition specializes in custom booth designs and turnkey solutions, offering end-to-end support from concept to teardown. Their team has extensive experience navigating labor requirements at McCormick Place, ensuring that all setup tasks are completed safely and efficiently. NewPowerExhibition also provides design consultation to create visually engaging booths that attract visitors and enhance brand presence.

2. Exponents

Exponents provides a range of booth rental and custom design options, catering to both small and large exhibitors. Their expertise includes managing labor, logistics, and installation. Exponents offers transparent pricing and full-service support, helping exhibitors reduce stress and avoid scheduling conflicts.

3. Pure Exhibits

Pure Exhibits offers prebuilt and customizable booths for quick and seamless installation. Their in-house fabrication ensures high-quality construction, while their team handles logistics and labor coordination. Pure Exhibits is ideal for companies seeking efficiency and consistency across multiple trade shows.

Strategies for Managing Booth Setup Costs

Plan Early

Scheduling labor and services well in advance can reduce overtime costs and ensure availability. Reserving materials and labor early also allows for contingency planning if unexpected challenges arise.

Understand Labor Jurisdictions

Familiarity with labor requirements prevents delays and penalties. Identifying which tasks can be handled by exhibitor staff versus union workers is crucial for cost management.

Bundle Services

Using a single provider for booth design, setup, and teardown reduces coordination challenges and often results in discounted rates. Integrated services streamline communication and scheduling.

Consider Modular Booths

Prebuilt or modular booths reduce labor hours and material handling costs. They also simplify setup and teardown, minimizing the risk of damage and additional fees.

Conclusion

Setting up a trade show booth in Chicago involves careful planning, budgeting, and understanding of union labor regulations. By partnering with experienced local companies such as NewPowerExhibition, exhibitors can ensure a smooth setup, cost efficiency, and compliance with venue rules. Proper planning and strategic partnerships will maximize your exhibition success and create a strong brand presence.

With the right preparation and support, participating in a Chicago trade show becomes not just a logistical task but a strategic opportunity to elevate your brand and connect with potential clients.

Reference

https://www.mccormickplace.com/labor-rules-reg/?utm_