Find out which carriers service the location and which provide the most reliable service. Allow extra time for delays in shipping and en route. Determine whether shipments will be pre-paid or collect.
Collect shipments require cash or a certified check before the shipment is completed.
Look into a closed delivery via a company-owned or private truck or van line, rather than a common carrier. The cost differential could be worthwhile in terms of peace of mind and a guaranteed delivery date, if your time schedule is tight. If the facility does not have storage facilities for advance deliveries, you'll need to ship to a drayage company. Your display company or the facility should be able to provide the name of one or more in the area, or check the annual directory of one of the meetings magazines. When you ship, tell the receiver when the materials will arrive and how many crates or cartons are in the shipment.