Drayage and material handling in Las Vegas
Drayage, also called material handling, is the show contractor's charge to move your freight from the dock to your booth, store your empty crates, and return them at move-out. It is usually billed by weight.
Last checked Oct 30, 2026
What to know
- What it applies to
Material handling is billed by weight, with minimums and small-package exceptions set in your exhibitor manual. Ask your show contractor whether items a local vendor delivers to the dock are charged too.
Not yet confirmedCES exhibitor manualsChecked Oct 30, 2026
- CES 2027 rates
CES says 2027 material handling rates stay flat compared with 2026, while other Freeman rates rise about 3%.
ConfirmedCES exhibitor manualsChecked Oct 30, 2026
- Hand-carrying
At the LVCC, exhibitors may hand-carry their merchandise in from their own vehicle, parked in a lot (curbside parking isn't allowed). Hand carts and dollies aren't allowed. Shows can add their own carry-in rules, so check your manual.
Not yet confirmedLVCVA: LVCC first time exhibitor guide and building user's manual (undated copy)Checked Oct 30, 2026
- Empty containers
Crates and packing materials must be labeled as empties and removed from the floor by the show contractor. You can't store them behind your booth.
ConfirmedMedtrade fire regulations (GES)Checked Oct 30, 2026