Q: Isn't the Official Service Contractor and the union the same thing?
A: No. The Official Service Contractor, GES, is a major service contractor, as are other decorating companies. GES Management personnel are non-union. Labor services can be ordered through GES. ONLY GES can provide the following services: material handling, decorating services, and labor services.

Q: I want to use an Exhibitor Appointed Contractor- what do I need to do?
A: Sponsors who wish to utilize an Exhibitor Appointed Contractor (EAC) must follow the guidelines listed here:
https://ordering.ges.com/011601855/eac_process_info. Please note: Workers of this type cannot physically erect the booth unless they are members of the appropriate Union Local.

Q: Why can't I unload my truck/trailer/van by myself?
A: Union jurisdictions prevail over the operations of all material handling equipment, all unloading and reloading, and handling of empty containers. GES has the responsibility to manage all docks, marshalling yards, and the scheduling of all vehicles in order to ensure a smooth and efficient move-in and move-out. Therefore, GES also has the responsibility of receiving and handling all exhibit materials and empty crates.

Q: What can I carry myself? Can I use a dolly or hand truck?
A: A sponsor may move material (through the front door of the Business Hall only) that can be hand-carried by one person in one trip, without the use of dollies, hand trucks, or other mechanical equipment.

Q: My booth is so simple...just a "pop-up" and takes only minutes to set-up. Can I do it myself?
A: A 10' X 10" display ("pop-ups") may be set-up by a sponsor if one person can accomplish the task in no more than 30 minutes (including crating and uncrating) and without the use of any tools. A pop-up booth is an exhibit of 10 linear feet or less that can be carried and set-up without tools or a ladder. The union steward reserves the right to determine whether or not union labor is required to set-up the exhibitor's booth.

Q: If my EAC (Exhibitor Appointed Contractor) is available to begin work earlier than the published move-in hours, can they have access to the exhibit floor?
A: No. Due to security and liability reasons, everyone must adhere to the published show and move-in/move-out hours.

Q: Can I lay my own carpet in the booth?
A: No. Only Union workers may do so—either GES labor or an EAC.