Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor coordination is one of the less-visible but more-important capabilities in trade show execution. Every major TCC show publishes EAC rules in its exhibitor manual.
We serve as EACs on shows where the client wants a non-GSC crew on-site. We also coordinate for clients using another EAC who need a local Tampa project manager to interface with the GSC.
This page covers what EAC rules actually mean, what paperwork has to be filed and when, where the GSC/EAC boundary lines usually fall, and what this coordination costs.
Focus areasFocus areas
- EAC registration and certificate-of-insurance filing with the show's GSC, 30 to 45 days out.
- Task-by-task mapping of GSC-only work vs. EAC-allowed work.
- On-site GSC interface during install and strike.
- Fallback plan when the GSC asserts jurisdiction.
- Documentation for post-show billing disputes.
- Same team whether we're the EAC or coordinator.
What the EAC rules actually say
Every major Tampa show — and every show at TCC specifically — publishes EAC rules in its exhibitor manual. These define which install and dismantle tasks exhibitors can hire their own contractors for.
Florida is a right-to-work state, which translates into a more flexible labor environment at TCC than you'd find at convention centers in Chicago, Vegas, or New York. EACs can handle booth setup, graphics, AV installation, and non-rigged hanging elements; the GSC typically owns drayage, centralized labor pools, rigging, and centralized infrastructure services.
The paperwork sequence
EAC registration paperwork has to be submitted 30 to 45 days before the show. That includes the EAC form, a current certificate of insurance naming the show and TCC as additional insureds, and a personnel list. Missing paperwork is the most common reason EACs get denied floor access.
We handle this paperwork as part of EAC coordination.
Where the GSC/EAC line gets blurry
Most EAC/GSC disputes happen on tasks that could reasonably be either. A hanging sign installation that requires rigging — rigging is GSC, but hanging sign assembly can be EAC. A crate delivery to the booth — drayage is GSC, but unpacking is EAC. Utility hookups — utility drops are GSC, but booth-side wiring is often EAC.
We navigate these cases by reading the current manual closely and confirming with the GSC's show-manager in writing before the install.
Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor Coordination frequently asked questions
Does every Tampa show require EAC registration?
Every major TCC show with a designated GSC does, yes. Smaller shows at hotels often don't require formal EAC paperwork but may still require a COI.
What happens if we skip EAC registration?
The GSC can deny your crew floor access on install day. Registration is cheap; skipping it is not.
Can any contractor be an EAC?
Any contractor who registers correctly and meets insurance requirements, yes.
What if our national builder already has an EAC?
Then you don't need us as the EAC. We often coordinate locally.
How do EAC rules differ between TCC and hotel venues?
TCC shows have formal EAC registration requirements with specific task boundaries. Hotel venues often don't have a designated GSC.
Can you EAC for a booth built by another vendor?
Yes. We need the build drawings, packing list, install notes, and current exhibitor manual.
Next step
Scope EAC coordination for your next Tampa show
Send the show, dates, and whether you have an existing national builder or need us as the primary EAC. We'll come back with a plan and cost estimate within a few days.