Trade Show Rigging in Las Vegas: When You Need It and What It Costs

Rigging is one of the most misunderstood and most expensive line items in a trade show budget. If your exhibit includes a hanging sign, a suspended banner, or any overhead structure, you need certified riggers -- and at most Las Vegas venues, that means union riggers.

Here is what exhibitors need to know about trade show rigging in Las Vegas.

What counts as rigging?

Rigging covers any structure that is suspended from the venue ceiling rather than standing on the floor. This includes:

• Hanging signs and overhead banners
• Suspended lighting trusses
• Elevated LED displays
• Custom overhead brand structures
• Motorized hanging systems

If it hangs from the ceiling, it is rigging.

Why rigging requires certified professionals

Rigging failures on a trade show floor are a safety emergency. Venues require certified riggers because overhead structures present risk to everyone on the floor below. At Las Vegas venues including the LVCC, Mandalay Bay, and Venetian Expo, rigging work must be performed by qualified personnel following strict load rating and attachment protocols.

This is not optional. No certification, no rigging.

What does rigging cost at Las Vegas trade shows?

Rigging costs depend on the size and complexity of the overhead structure, the number of rigging points, and the venue's specific requirements. A standard single-sided hanging sign for a 10x10 booth typically starts at $800 to $1,500 for rigging labor. Complex multi-point structures for large island exhibits can run $3,000 to $8,000 or more.

Plan for rigging as a separate line item in your exhibit budget. Do not bundle it into general I&D -- it requires specific certification and coordination with the venue's rigging department.

How far in advance should you plan for rigging?

Rigging permits are required at most Las Vegas venues and must be submitted before move-in. Your exhibit drawings need to include rigging point specifications. Submit rigging paperwork to the general contractor 4 to 6 weeks before the show.

Synergers coordinates rigging at Las Vegas trade shows. Our crew includes certified riggers who have worked every major Las Vegas venue. We handle permitting coordination, rigging point verification, and installation.

Contact Synergers at info@synergers.com for a rigging estimate.