BUILDEX Calgary Exhibitor Staging | Skip Union Minimums and Save on Costs

Introduction

BUILDEX Alberta, happening October 22–23, 2025, is one of Western Canada’s largest events for the construction, design, and property management industries. For exhibitors, it’s a prime opportunity to showcase products, network with industry leaders, and win new business. But along with the opportunity comes a challenge — getting your displays and materials into the BMO Centre in Calgary without losing time or money to hidden fees.

Exhibitors who ship directly to the venue often face unexpected costs, including union minimums, after-hours premiums, and mandatory equipment charges. These fees eat into budgets and leave vendors scrambling. The smarter approach? Off-site staging and Calgary exhibitor logistics support that protect both your bottom line and your reputation.

The Hidden Costs of On-Site Receiving

At first glance, venue receiving looks like the simplest option. But exhibitors at BUILDEX Alberta quickly discover that shipping directly to the BMO Centre comes with steep add-ons: These extra costs can easily exceed $800 to $1,500 per shipment, wiping out profit before the show even begins.

• Union minimums: Even if your freight takes less than an hour to unload, you may be billed for two to four hours of labour at $40–$60 per hour.

• Overtime charges: Deliveries outside regular business hours can cost 50–100% more.

• Mandatory equipment rentals: Forklift or pallet jack use is often billed separately, even for small shipments.

• Storage fees: Keeping crates or packaging on-site usually means paying daily fees.

These rules aren’t always clear until the invoice arrives. For exhibitors with tight margins, the impact is significant.

Why Off-Site Staging Gives Flexibility and Cost Control

Instead of relying on rigid venue rules, exhibitors can stage their materials in a local Calgary warehouse before the show. Off-site staging provides the control and flexibility that BUILDEX Alberta vendors need. Off-site Calgary staging flips the script. Instead of being locked into venue schedules and fees, you control delivery times, avoid surprise charges, and know your booth materials are ready when you are.

• Predictable costs: Flat-rate Calgary vendor storage avoids surprise union minimums.

• Flexible hours: Shipments can be received evenings, weekends, or after hours without penalties.

• Secure handling: Booth materials are received, signed for, and stored safely until setup.

• Staging advantage: Displays can be prepped, consolidated, and ready for quick installation.

• Reduced stress: Exhibitors arrive at BUILDEX knowing their materials are organized and waiting.

This approach keeps budgets in line while ensuring booths are set up on time and without drama.

Mondogigs’ Tailored Services for BUILDEX Exhibitors

Mondogigs specializes in Calgary exhibitor logistics and provides services built for vendors in construction and design. Our warehouse, minutes from Stampede Park, is designed to simplify BUILDEX Alberta staging and storage.

Our exhibitor-focused solutions include:

• Secure receiving: We accept deliveries of all sizes, including pallets, equipment, and bulk materials.

• Short-term vendor storage: Calgary vendor storage options let you keep materials safe and close to the venue.

• Staging services: Prep, organize, or consolidate booth materials before they’re delivered to the BMO Centre.

• After-hours flexibility: Avoid penalties by using our Calgary staging warehouse for late or weekend receiving.

By partnering with Mondogigs, BUILDEX exhibitors can skip union minimums, cut costs, and focus on making the most of their show.

Protect your budget. Contact Mondogigs for Calgary exhibitor staging and storage before BUILDEX Alberta.

Conclusion

For exhibitors at BUILDEX Alberta, the real cost of showing up isn’t just booth design or marketing — it’s the hidden fees tied to venue receiving. Union minimums, overtime charges, and equipment rentals can drain budgets fast.

With off-site staging and Calgary vendor storage from Mondogigs, exhibitors gain flexibility, cost control, and peace of mind. From receiving to staging to coordinated delivery, our Calgary staging warehouse ensures your materials arrive on time and on budget.

Exhibiting at BUILDEX Alberta? Contact Mondogigs for exhibitor-friendly receiving, staging, and storage near the BMO Centre.