Quick Overview
- 1#1: Expo Logic - Cloud-based trade show management software specializing in exhibitor service ordering, logistics, and fulfillment.
- 2#2: Trade Show MakeReady - Self-service exhibitor platform for ordering trade show essentials like power, internet, furniture, and labor.
- 3#3: ShowReady - Comprehensive logistics software for managing trade show material handling, drayage, shipping, and storage orders.
- 4#4: Cvent - Enterprise event management platform with advanced exhibitor portals for booth services and ordering.
- 5#5: eShow - Trade show and conference software featuring exhibitor registration, booth assignments, and service orders.
- 6#6: ExpoFP - Trade show floor planning and management tool with integrated exhibitor ordering and service requests.
- 7#7: Ungerboeck - Venue management system with exhibitor modules for handling trade show orders and inventory.
- 8#8: Planning Pod - All-in-one event software supporting exhibitor booth sales, sponsorships, and order management.
- 9#9: Abstrakt - Exhibitor and sponsor management platform focused on streamlined service ordering for events.
- 10#10: ExpoCAD - CAD-based booth design software for creating, quoting, and ordering custom trade show exhibits.
We ranked these tools by evaluating core features (scalability, industry alignment), user satisfaction (ease of use, support), and value, ensuring they meet the demands of modern trade shows and exhibitors.
Comparison Table
Trade show ordering software streamlines post-event transactions, and this table compares key tools like Expo Logic, Trade Show MakeReady, ShowReady, Cvent, eShow, and more. It breaks down features, usability, and practicality to help readers identify solutions aligned with their event needs, whether focusing on order management, integration, or workflow efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Expo Logic Cloud-based trade show management software specializing in exhibitor service ordering, logistics, and fulfillment. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | Trade Show MakeReady Self-service exhibitor platform for ordering trade show essentials like power, internet, furniture, and labor. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 3 | ShowReady Comprehensive logistics software for managing trade show material handling, drayage, shipping, and storage orders. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Cvent Enterprise event management platform with advanced exhibitor portals for booth services and ordering. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | eShow Trade show and conference software featuring exhibitor registration, booth assignments, and service orders. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | ExpoFP Trade show floor planning and management tool with integrated exhibitor ordering and service requests. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Ungerboeck Venue management system with exhibitor modules for handling trade show orders and inventory. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Planning Pod All-in-one event software supporting exhibitor booth sales, sponsorships, and order management. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Abstrakt Exhibitor and sponsor management platform focused on streamlined service ordering for events. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | ExpoCAD CAD-based booth design software for creating, quoting, and ordering custom trade show exhibits. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
Cloud-based trade show management software specializing in exhibitor service ordering, logistics, and fulfillment.
Self-service exhibitor platform for ordering trade show essentials like power, internet, furniture, and labor.
Comprehensive logistics software for managing trade show material handling, drayage, shipping, and storage orders.
Enterprise event management platform with advanced exhibitor portals for booth services and ordering.
Trade show and conference software featuring exhibitor registration, booth assignments, and service orders.
Trade show floor planning and management tool with integrated exhibitor ordering and service requests.
Venue management system with exhibitor modules for handling trade show orders and inventory.
All-in-one event software supporting exhibitor booth sales, sponsorships, and order management.
Exhibitor and sponsor management platform focused on streamlined service ordering for events.
CAD-based booth design software for creating, quoting, and ordering custom trade show exhibits.
Expo Logic
specializedCloud-based trade show management software specializing in exhibitor service ordering, logistics, and fulfillment.
Official integration with hundreds of trade shows providing exclusive, real-time access to compliant catalogs and inventory not available elsewhere
Expo Logic is a comprehensive trade show ordering platform designed to streamline the process for exhibitors to order essential booth services such as electricity, internet, furniture, labor, and logistics directly from official show catalogs. It offers real-time pricing, inventory availability, and seamless integration with event organizers to ensure compliance and accuracy. The software reduces manual errors, speeds up ordering, and provides mobile access for on-the-go management, making it a top choice for efficient trade show preparation.
Pros
- Extensive catalog of services with real-time pricing and availability from official show partners
- Seamless integration with major trade show organizers for compliant, hassle-free ordering
- Mobile-responsive interface and robust reporting tools for easy management and tracking
Cons
- Pricing can be premium for small or infrequent exhibitors due to service markups
- Some advanced customizations require direct support interaction
- Dependent on partnerships with specific shows, limiting universality for niche events
Best For
Mid-to-large exhibitors and agencies managing multiple trade shows who need reliable, integrated ordering to save time and ensure accuracy.
Pricing
Custom per-show or subscription pricing starting around $99/month for core access, with service fees based on orders; often includes markups on fulfilled services.
Trade Show MakeReady
specializedSelf-service exhibitor platform for ordering trade show essentials like power, internet, furniture, and labor.
Direct API integration with DEC service manuals for instant, official pricing and availability without manual lookups
Trade Show MakeReady is a specialized platform that streamlines the trade show preparation process by centralizing orders for essential booth services like electricity, furniture, drayage, installation, and dismantling. It integrates directly with official show Decorator and Electrical Contractors (DEC) systems, allowing exhibitors to access real-time pricing and availability from service manuals. The software provides tools for booth layout planning, order tracking, and compliance checks to ensure smooth event execution.
Pros
- Deep integration with DEC and show management systems for accurate, real-time service ordering
- Comprehensive booth planning tools including checklists and layout previews
- Mobile-responsive interface with order tracking and notifications
Cons
- Steep learning curve for first-time users without trade show experience
- Pricing model favors high-volume exhibitors, less ideal for occasional participants
- Limited reporting and analytics compared to enterprise-level competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large exhibitors managing multiple trade shows annually who need reliable integration with official service providers.
Pricing
Custom per-event or subscription pricing starting at $99 per show plus service fees; volume discounts available.
ShowReady
specializedComprehensive logistics software for managing trade show material handling, drayage, shipping, and storage orders.
Universal compatibility across major trade show organizers, enabling one-login ordering regardless of the event provider
ShowReady is a specialized trade show ordering platform that simplifies the process for exhibitors to purchase booth services like electricity, internet, furniture, AV equipment, and labor from a unified dashboard. It integrates directly with numerous show organizers' systems, providing real-time pricing, availability, and order tracking. The software also includes budgeting tools, historical order data, and mobile accessibility to streamline event preparation and reduce manual errors.
Pros
- Seamless integration with 100+ show organizers
- Intuitive mobile-friendly interface
- Comprehensive budgeting and order history tools
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users
- Limited customization for unique booth needs
- Relies heavily on participating show integrations
Best For
Mid-sized exhibitors attending multiple trade shows annually who want a centralized platform for efficient service ordering.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on events and services; starts at around $99 per show or subscription plans from $495/month for unlimited access.
Cvent
enterpriseEnterprise event management platform with advanced exhibitor portals for booth services and ordering.
Integrated Expo Labs floor plan and booth assignment tool with drag-and-drop ordering
Cvent is a comprehensive event management platform with specialized tools for trade show ordering, enabling exhibitors to purchase booth space, services like AV, electricity, and furniture, and sponsorships through a self-service portal. It integrates floor plan visualization, contract management, and payment processing to streamline the ordering workflow for organizers and exhibitors alike. The platform also supports real-time inventory tracking and automated fulfillment to reduce manual errors in large-scale events.
Pros
- Robust exhibitor portal for seamless service ordering and customization
- Strong integration with CRM and payment systems for efficient workflows
- Advanced reporting and analytics on orders and revenue
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- High pricing limits accessibility for smaller events
- Occasional customization limitations without add-ons
Best For
Large trade show organizers managing complex, high-volume exhibitor orders across multiple events.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically starting at $5,000–$20,000+ per event depending on scale and features.
eShow
specializedTrade show and conference software featuring exhibitor registration, booth assignments, and service orders.
Integrated exhibitor-decorator portal enabling real-time order collaboration and automated approvals
eShow (eshow365.com) is a comprehensive trade show ordering platform designed to streamline exhibitor service requests, including electricity, AV, furniture, labor, and shipping. It provides dedicated portals for organizers, exhibitors, and decorators to manage orders, track fulfillment, and handle payments efficiently. The software emphasizes integration with floor planning tools like ExpoCAD and offers real-time reporting for better event logistics.
Pros
- Extensive catalog of trade show services with competitive vendor bidding
- Seamless integrations with ExpoCAD and other event management tools
- Robust reporting and analytics for organizers
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller events
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Limited customization options for unique service needs
Best For
Mid-to-large trade show organizers and decorators managing high-volume exhibitor orders.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on event size and booth count; typically starts at $5,000+ per show with tiered subscriptions for year-round use.
ExpoFP
specializedTrade show floor planning and management tool with integrated exhibitor ordering and service requests.
Interactive, real-time 3D floor plan viewer that lets exhibitors self-select and reserve booths instantly from any device
ExpoFP is a specialized trade show management platform focused on interactive floor plan design and online booth ordering. It enables event organizers to create customizable booth layouts, allow exhibitors to browse availability, select spaces, and complete purchases seamlessly through an integrated payment system. The software also supports invoicing, reporting, and basic attendee management to streamline the entire exhibit sales process.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop floor plan editor for quick layouts
- Real-time booth availability and self-service ordering for exhibitors
- Built-in payment processing and automated invoicing
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise competitors
- Customization options can feel restrictive for very large events
- Customer support response times vary during peak seasons
Best For
Mid-sized trade show organizers seeking an efficient, visual tool for booth sales and floor planning without complex setup.
Pricing
Event-based pricing starts at $299 for small shows (up to 100 booths), scaling to custom quotes for larger events; free trial available.
Ungerboeck
enterpriseVenue management system with exhibitor modules for handling trade show orders and inventory.
Integrated eCommerce exhibitor portal for self-service ordering of booth services with automated approvals and invoicing
Ungerboeck is a robust enterprise-level event management platform specializing in venue and trade show operations, enabling organizers to manage exhibitor registrations, booth assignments, and service ordering from electricity to AV equipment. It features an integrated eCommerce portal for exhibitors to place orders seamlessly, alongside tools for floor planning, invoicing, and reporting. The software supports complex, large-scale events with strong backend automation for contracts and payments.
Pros
- Comprehensive exhibitor ordering portal with real-time inventory
- Strong integrations with CRM, accounting, and payment systems
- Advanced analytics and reporting for event ROI
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup for new users
- High pricing unsuitable for small events
- Interface feels dated in some modules
Best For
Large trade show organizers handling enterprise-scale events with complex service ordering needs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request; typically starts at $5,000+ per month or per-event fees for mid-to-large deployments.
Planning Pod
enterpriseAll-in-one event software supporting exhibitor booth sales, sponsorships, and order management.
Customizable exhibitor portal with real-time service ordering and automated approval workflows
Planning Pod is a comprehensive event management platform tailored for trade shows, enabling organizers to handle booth assignments, exhibitor registrations, and service orders like electricity, AV equipment, and furniture through a centralized dashboard. It features self-service exhibitor portals for streamlined ordering, payments, and contract management, reducing manual coordination. The software integrates floor planning, budgeting, and reporting to support end-to-end trade show logistics.
Pros
- Robust exhibitor portals for self-service ordering and payments
- Integrated floor plans and booth mapping with service inventory
- Strong reporting and analytics for post-event insights
Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive features
- Pricing scales quickly for large-scale events
- Mobile app lacks full ordering functionality
Best For
Mid-sized trade show organizers seeking an all-in-one platform that combines ordering with broader event management.
Pricing
Starts at $59/user/month (Basic), $99/user/month (Pro), with Enterprise custom quotes based on event volume.
Abstrakt
specializedExhibitor and sponsor management platform focused on streamlined service ordering for events.
Real-time service availability checker synced with official contractors
Abstrakt is a trade show ordering platform designed for exhibitors to streamline the procurement of booth services including furniture, electrical, labor, drayage, and shipping through an online portal. It integrates with official show contractors to provide accurate pricing and booth specifications, reducing manual coordination. The software emphasizes efficiency for repeat exhibitors managing multiple events annually.
Pros
- Comprehensive service catalog from major vendors
- Seamless integration with trade show organizers
- Mobile-responsive interface for on-site adjustments
Cons
- Limited customization for complex booth designs
- Reporting and analytics could be more robust
- Per-show fees add up for small exhibitors
Best For
Mid-sized exhibitors at regional or national trade shows seeking a one-stop ordering hub without in-house logistics expertise.
Pricing
Per-show pricing starting at $99 per booth plus service markups; volume discounts for multi-show contracts.
ExpoCAD
specializedCAD-based booth design software for creating, quoting, and ordering custom trade show exhibits.
Integrated CAD design with a vast supplier catalog for one-click ordering of booth elements
ExpoCAD is a CAD-based software platform tailored for trade show and expo booth design, enabling users to create precise 2D and 3D floor plans and booth layouts. It streamlines the process from design visualization to ordering exhibit components, furniture, and services directly through integrated supplier catalogs. Primarily used by event organizers and exhibitors, it supports complex configurations for large-scale trade shows while facilitating order management and approvals.
Pros
- Powerful CAD tools for detailed 2D/3D booth designs and floor plans
- Direct integration with suppliers for seamless ordering and procurement
- Comprehensive library of exhibit components and customization options
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to CAD-focused interface
- Limited integrations with modern CRM or event management tools
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small-scale or occasional users
Best For
Mid-sized trade show organizers and professional exhibit designers handling complex booth configurations and high-volume orders.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting at around $500 per event or custom subscriptions from $1,000/month depending on scale and features.
Conclusion
After assessing the landscape of trade show ordering software, Expo Logic emerges as the top choice, excelling in exhibitor service ordering, logistics, and fulfillment. Trade Show MakeReady stands strong as a leading alternative, offering a user-friendly self-service platform for essentials like power and furniture, while ShowReady impresses with its robust logistics management, perfect for handling material handling and drayage. These tools each address unique needs, ensuring efficient trade show operations.
Ready to simplify your trade show ordering process? Explore Expo Logic—the top-ranked solution for streamlined service ordering, logistics, and fulfillment. Taking the next step today can elevate your event management and ensure a successful, stress-free experience.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison