Clipboards
Clipboards are a simple way to take orders at trade shows. Use the old-fashioned carbon paper for instant customer copies of orders. It's a good idea to keep a couple of clipboards as back-ups so you won't be shuffling through paperwork in the event of back-to-back orders. Be prepared!
Literature
Wholesale buyers do not "impulse buy" like retail customers. Many prefer to browse the show, gather information and then decide what they will order. Be sure you have something to give them so they will remember your product later. Business cards, color fliers, price sheets and order forms are a must at any trade show. Shop around for your printing needs. Prices vary greatly and promotional material, while important, is a "giveaway" and should be cost effective. Color printers make printing your own material easy and affordable too. I've seen some very nice fliers that were "homemade". However you decide to acquire your literature is up to you, but make sure you have plenty on hand.
Calculator
Not all buyers require a total on their order immediately, but some will. A several thousand-dollar order can take a long time to add up on your fingers! An inexpensive pocket calculator is indispensible at trade shows. Oh, and don't forget the batteries!
Pens
Keep plenty of pens handy. Many an order has been lost because of a delay. A dead ink pen can be a long enough delay to lose an order.
Signage
Have signs for prices, markdowns, minimums, shipping charges and anything else you want to immediately convey to buyers. Lots of people do not want to ask questions, and even if they do not mind asking you for details, you may be busy with another customer. Signs in various locations of your display speak for you.
Scheduling Book
A scheduling book is a great way to keep track of your shipping deadlines. A simple pad of paper or a preprinted calendar will work for a scheduling book. Write down the date that an order will ship and include how many pieces will ship. This will help you know lead times for shipments in advance, and prevent overbooking.
Credit Card Material
If you accept credit cards as payment, be sure you bring your credit card slips, terminal and anything else you may need to complete transactions. Consult your merchant account representative for details/rules with your institution.
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