Exhibiting at the Orange County Convention Center(OCCC): What Every Exhibitor Should Know
Why the OCCC is Central to Orlando Trade Shows
The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) is one of the busiest and most versatile event facilities in the U.S., hosting hundreds of shows annually - including IAAPA Expo, MRO Americas, NPE, and HIMSS Global Health Conference (on rotation). With over two million square feet of exhibit space and proximity to major hotels like the Rosen Shingle Creek, Marriott World Center, and Gaylord Palms, it’s a favorite for large-scale conventions and expos.
For more than 15 years, Summit Exhibit has managed successful OCCC installations - from modular trade show displays to custom island rentals - backed by our ISO 14001-certified exhibit system for sustainable, efficient execution.
Step 1 – Understand OCCC Material Handling Rules
Exhibitors can hand-carry smaller items into the hall, but hand carry only is the rule.
For full exhibit materials, shipments must be delivered to the advance warehouse or direct-to-show-site with a carrier.
Quick Facts:
Hand Carry: Allowed, but only by hand (no carts or pallet jacks)
Freight: Larger shipments must be handled through the show contractor
Summit Exhibit’ local Orlando teams coordinate all OCCC material handling and labor services to ensure every delivery and setup follows current facility requirements.
Step 2 – Booth Work Rules and Setup
Exhibitors are allowed to work within their own booths - including assembling displays, hanging monitors, and installing graphics - provided they bring their own tools and ladders.
Pro Tip:
Summit Exhibit provides full setup support with certified local EAC crews, so your booth is show-ready without worrying about tool or supervision restrictions.
Step 3 – Electrical and Rigging Guidelines
Electrical power is primarily provided through floor ports, with ceiling drops available upon request for specific exhibit layouts.
Running Cords:
Under carpet - Not permitted. Only licensed electricians may install these.
Above carpet - Permitted and can be supplied by the exhibitor, EAC, or show contractor.
Plug-In Equipment: Exhibitors can connect standard equipment like lights, monitors, and power strips.
Rigging & Hanging Signs: EACs may assemble signs, but certified riggers handle overhead lifts.
Summit Exhibit ensures your booth layout and design comply with OCCC rigging and electrical rules - saving time during setup approvals.
Step 4 – Cleaning and Maintenance
Exhibitors can provide and vacuum their own carpet but are not permitted to use EACs for cleaning.
Booth cleaning services can be ordered directly through OCCC or the official show contractor.
Our Orlando team ensures all pre-show cleaning and prep is completed before show opening, keeping your exhibit polished from day one.
Step 5 – Logistics & On-Site Efficiency
OCCC operations run on tight move-in schedules, especially for high-traffic shows. Summit Exhibit manages:
Advance warehouse coordination for timely freight delivery
Install/dismantle supervision to meet target move-in dates
Equipment rentals (Genie lifts, certified operators) as needed
With local presence and long-term relationships across OCCC vendors, our project managers make setup efficient and predictable - every time.
