Exhibiting at McCormick Place: What Every Exhibitor Should Know
Why McCormick Place Is the Center of Chicago Trade Shows
The McCormick Place Convention Center is the largest and most advanced exhibition facility in North America, spanning four state-of-the-art buildings-North, South, West, and Lakeside-with more than 2.6 million sq. ft. of exhibit space. From RSNA and PACK EXPO International to The Inspired Home Show and IMTS, nearly every major industry has a presence here.
For over 15 years, Summit Exhibit has provided turnkey exhibit solutions at McCormick Place, combining creative booth design with precise coordination of union labor, electrical services, and freight logistics-supported by our ISO 14001-certified exhibit system for efficiency and sustainability.
Step 1 – Material Handling & Freight Access
Exhibitors may hand-carry small items into the hall, but all freight shipments are handled by the official general contractor (GC).
Quick Facts:
Hand Carry: Allowed-hand carry only. No carts or pallet jacks permitted.
Freight Handling: All crated and palletized shipments must be managed through the GC.
Summit Exhibit coordinates inbound and outbound freight, target move-in schedules, and labor orders to ensure smooth installation and dismantle at McCormick Place.
Step 2 – Work Rules & Booth Setup
Exhibitors may perform limited work within their own booths. Full-time employees of the exhibiting company can set up and dismantle displays, but outside labor or supervisors may not handle tools.
Quick Facts:
Supervision: Shop personnel may supervise only.
Tools: Exhibitors must provide their own tools and ladders (borrowing is not allowed on the show floor).
Pro Tip:
Summit Exhibit’ Chicago team coordinates all union labor and EAC support so your setup remains fully compliant with McCormick Place policies and show rules.
Step 3 – Electrical Services & Power Guidelines
McCormick Place offers power from both floor ports and ceiling drops, depending on booth location and hall assignment.
Under-carpet cabling: Not allowed - licensed electricians must install and supply all cords.
Above-carpet cabling: Exhibitors may run cords above carpet; EACs and labor contractors may not perform electrical work.
Plug-in equipment: Exhibitors may connect and place their own equipment (lights, monitors, etc.). EACs and labor contractors are restricted from handling power connections.
Summit Exhibit coordinates electrical orders and pre-show layout approvals to avoid delays and unexpected charges.
Step 4 – Rigging & Overhead Signage
Rigging and signage assembly at McCormick Place are union-specific tasks handled by designated crews. Decorators assemble frames and graphics on the floor, while certified riggers install signs and move all overhead machinery.
If a sign requires electricity for lighting or motion, electricians collaborate with decorators or carpenters for installation.
Summit Exhibit designs and engineers rig-ready sign packages that meet McCormick Place safety requirements and receive advance approval before arrival.
Step 5 – Cleaning & Booth Maintenance
Exhibitors may vacuum their own carpet using company-supplied equipment but cannot hire EACs or shop supervisors for cleaning. Alternatively, booth cleaning can be ordered directly through McCormick Place services or the official GC.
Summit Exhibit handles all pre-show prep and overnight cleaning orders so your booth looks professional and welcoming each day of the event.
Step 6 – Logistics & On-Site Efficiency
With tight move-in windows and specific union jurisdictions, McCormick Place demands experienced coordination. Summit Exhibit manages every detail-freight scheduling, installation, electrical orders, and final walkthroughs-to ensure a seamless show-floor experience.
