US vs. UK Exhibitions: Logistics, Execution & why InsideOut Events is your ideal Partner
Planning to exhibit across the pond? Whether you’re venturing from the UK to the US or vice versa, navigating the exhibition landscape requires finesse. Here’s how the two markets differ, and how InsideOut Events ensures your success, no matter the side of the Atlantic.
Logistics & Shipping: Simple vs. Complex
US Approach
Domestic shipping is generally straightforward; no customs, duties, or cross-border paperwork when moving materials between states.
UK/Europe Approach
Shipment involves customs, VAT, import fees, and strict carrier policies. Deliveries often require logistics partners to move goods from external depots to the show floor, adding cost and complexity.
Why InsideOut excels: With deep experience across both markets, we coordinate every aspect, from customs clearance to ensuring seamless hand-offs between carriers and venues.
Labour, Venue Rules & Cost Structures
US Landscape
Unionised labour controls most build and dismantle tasks, often with premium rates for evenings/weekends.
Material handling (“drayage”) charges are based on weight, heavy builds can quickly increase costs.
Venue-specific AV and electrical services are mandatory and often expensive.
UK/Europe Landscape
Labour is more flexible, one team may handle multiple tasks such as carpentry, AV, and electrical.
You can choose your own logistics providers, with more transparent and economical freight.
AV providers are not tied to the venue, allowing for vendor choice and competitive pricing.
Why InsideOut excels: Whether it’s maximising cost-efficiency in the UK or navigating complex union rules in the US, our global logistics expertise ensures controlled budgets and flawless delivery.
Design, Regulatory Compliance & Execution
US Constraints
Booth design often follows modular standards with strict height, setback, and safety regulations.
Permits for rigging, electrical layouts, and fireproofing add layers of bureaucracy.
UK/Europe Flexibility
Greater freedom in creative booth design, including double-deck structures and custom architecture, subject to venue norms and CE marking compliance.
Standardised health and safety guidelines streamline approvals.
Why InsideOut excels: We marry design innovation with regulatory know-how, delivering visually striking stands that are fully compliant in any market.
Cultural & Communication Nuances
US vs UK Differences
Language quirks can cause confusion, for example, “tabling” means deferring in the US, but planning/proposing in the UK.
Data protection laws like GDPR (and PECR) impose strict requirements on consent and communications in the UK and Europe, far more stringent than US regulations.
Why InsideOut excels: We write, design, and market with regional sensitivity, from local English tone to GDPR-safe data capture, ensuring no cultural missteps.
Strategic Recommendations:
Global Reach, Local Execution – Combining on-the-ground teams in both regions, we handle logistics, compliance, and build—not just planning.
Cost-Aware Innovation – We design lightweight, high-impact booths that control costs—whether avoiding drayage in the US or streamlining AV sourcing in the UK.
Regulatory Compliance – Our projects always meet local health and safety, permitting, and data protection standards—leaving nothing to chance.
Seamless Communication – From messaging tone to operational terminology, we bridge cultural gaps to make your project smooth and effective.
Final Word:
Navigating exhibitions between the US and UK demands mastery in logistics, labour, design, regulation, and culture. InsideOut Events offers that mastery. We’ve walked both sides, and we make your exhibitions not just seamless, but impactful and memorable.
Let us transform your next international exhibition into a flawless showcase of your brand.