When people talk about trade show cases, they typically do not mean display cases similar to those found in a store. Usually, cases for trade shows are designed to transport specific kinds of displays and equipment to and from trade shows. Having designated cases for this purpose not only protects expensive booths, signs, and flags, but also helps make it possible for a small number of employees to transport and set up an entire trade show booth. The different types of trade show cases relate specifically to the many kinds of trade show equipment, displays, and products, and some are designed specifically for individual brands of equipment.
Some of the most important trade show cases are those designed to transport the actual booths used in trade shows. This type of booth typically includes banners, supports, and other custom aspects. Flooring must also be transported in a special type of case. Given that these elements are often quite heavy, trade show cases of this type usually have both wheels and handles. In order to provide maximum protection, these cases are usually hard shelled, but it is sometimes possible to find soft shelled cases that weigh less.
Display cases are also important, and can usually be made in smaller sizes. When the displays roll into a very compact form, they can often be transported in tubes or thin zip cases. Custom trade show cases for displays usually fit the display's dimensions precisely and are designed to be carried, so these usually do not have wheels. There are also some cases designed to hold many different banners, flags, and displays at once.
Cases for lights, electronics, and other valuable elements used at trade shows usually lock and firmly secure the case's contents. This is important, because theft of these items during a show could be disastrous. If there are highly valuable objects being used at the show, special cases and additional security is usually employed. Generic trade show cases usually only cover promotional elements. One exception to this rule is for commonly used technology, such as lights and plasma televisions, which may be accommodated by some trade show case manufacturers.
Certain companies focus on designing trade show transport systems that precisely fit the needs of the customer. This can result in a single large box that fits everything needed for the trade show, including the booth, promotional displays, any technology needed, and even small gifts for people attending the show. Some trade show cases of this type even convert directly into a booth, reducing the need to wait after a show for packing materials or assistance.
