Bad lighting at a trade show is one of those problems you only notice when it's too late — when you're already on the show floor and your booth looks flat compared to the one next to you. This checklist is designed to prevent that. Go through it at least two weeks before your show date.
Before You Order
- Check your exhibitor manual for electrical rules — Some venues cap total wattage per booth (commonly 500W for a 10×10). Others require ETL or UL certification for all electrical equipment. Get this information before you order anything.
- Count your power outlets — Standard 10×10 booths typically get 1–2 outlets. Know this number before deciding how many lights to buy and whether you need a power strip.
- Measure your booth frame — Confirm the top rail profile dimensions so your arm light clamps will fit. Most standard aluminum extrusions are compatible, but non-standard frames can be an issue.
- Decide on color temperature — Warm (3000K) for lifestyle and fashion, neutral (4500K) for general use, cool (6500K) for tech and industrial. If you're unsure, go neutral.
- Confirm plug type for the country — US, EU, UK, and AU plugs are all different. If you exhibit internationally, order the correct plug type for each market or use certified adapters.
- Check CRI rating — Minimum CRI 90 for any product or brand display. Don't buy lights without a published CRI number.
When Ordering
- Order at least 3 weeks before the show — Factory-direct suppliers need 3–6 days production plus 5–12 days shipping. Cutting it close means risking arrival after your setup day.
- Order one spare — If you're buying 3 lights, order 4. LED fixtures are reliable but shipping damage happens. Having a spare on-site costs less than an emergency replacement.
- Request certification documentation — If your venue requires ETL or UL proof, ask for the test report at the time of order, not after it arrives.
- Confirm arm length — Standard is 400mm. If your booth has a deep frame or you need to clear an obstacle, order 500mm or 600mm.
When the Lights Arrive
- Test every unit before the show — Plug in each light at home or in your office. Confirm it powers on, the color temperature looks right, and there's no flicker.
- Check all clamps open and close smoothly — A clamp that's stiff or damaged will cost you time during setup.
- Coil cables neatly and label them — If you're running multiple lights, labeling cables saves confusion during setup.
- Pack a power strip — Even if you think you have enough outlets, a power strip is always useful on a show floor.
At the Show: Setup Day
- Mount lights before hanging graphics — It's easier to position arm lights on a bare frame than to work around an already-installed backwall.
- Space lights evenly across the top rail — For a 10 ft backwall with 3 lights, position them at approximately 1.5 ft, 5 ft, and 8.5 ft from one end.
- Angle downward at 30–45 degrees — Aim at the center of your graphic panel, not at the floor or at eye level.
- Check for glare from the aisle — Stand in the aisle and look at your booth. If the light head is visible and bright, adjust the angle or add a glare shield.
- Photograph your setup — Take a photo of the final light positions. Next show, you can replicate the setup in minutes instead of starting from scratch.
After the Show
- Coil cables loosely, not tightly — Tight coiling stresses the cable at the connector points and shortens lifespan.
- Store in original packaging or a padded case — The light head is the most vulnerable part. Protect it between shows.
- Note any issues for next time — Was the booth too dim? Too warm? Did you run out of outlets? Write it down while it's fresh so you can adjust for the next show.
Quick Reference: How Many Lights Do You Need?
| Booth Size | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| 10×10 ft | 2 lights | 3–4 lights |
| 10×20 ft | 4 lights | 5–6 lights |
| 20×20 ft | 8 lights | 10–12 lights |
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I forget to order lights and the show is in one week?
Contact us with your show date. We'll check current production capacity and advise on the fastest available shipping option. In some cases, expedited shipping can get lights to you within 5–7 business days from order.
Can I rent lights instead of buying?
Some exhibition service contractors offer lighting rental at the venue. Rental lights are typically generic, low-CRI fixtures at a high per-show cost. If you exhibit more than twice a year, buying your own lights pays for itself quickly.
What certifications do I need for US trade shows?
ETL or UL listing is the most commonly required certification at US venues. CE and UKCA are required for European shows. All BOOTH LIGHTS fixtures carry ETL, UL, CE, and UKCA certification.
Need help planning your setup? Contact us with your booth size and show date. Or browse our full range of display arm lights.