Hotels are less likely than convention centers to have large, column-free expanses of exhibit space. You may have to spread exhibits out over several rooms, perhaps even onto separate floors. If your exhibitors insist on large island booths, two-story booths or unusually tall displays, ballroom space may not work for your show. Product services are generally the same. Utilities, however, are another matter.
Some hotels have loading docks at exhibit hall level, with direct access onto the exhibit floor.
Typically, however, hotels have limited loading dock facilities, without direct dock access to the exhibit area. Marshaling facilities may also be lacking, particularly in cities where space is at a premium. Also, you may be dealing with a facility that gets really upset if you run a forklift on the carpet. Or the hotel may require your decorator to put plywood over the carpet. Be prepared for higher drayage rates.