Show at a glance
12-month planning timeline
- 12 months outJanuary
Lock booth size and budget. Submit space application.
- 9 months outApril
Issue RFP to 2–3 builders. Award by end of month.
- 6 months outJuly
Finalize design intent and renderings. Begin demo hardware planning.
- 4 months outSeptember
Sign off on final design + graphics. Begin pre-production.
- 2 months outNovember
Production complete. Schedule freight to Vegas warehouse.
- 1 month outDecember
Pre-stage in Vegas. Confirm I&D crew calls and EAC paperwork.
- Show weekEarly January
Move-in begins ~5 days prior. Soft opening Day 1 morning.
Booth budget by size
| Size | Rental | Custom |
|---|---|---|
| 10×10 | $8K–$18K+ | $22K–$45K+ |
| 10×20 | $14K–$28K+ | $32K–$65K+ |
| 20×20 | $22K–$45K+ | $55K–$110K+ |
| 20×30 | $32K–$65K+ | $80K–$170K+ |
| 30×30 / 20×40 | $50K–$95K+ | $140K–$300K+ |
| 40×40+ Island | $80K–$160K+ | $220K–$500K+ |
Ranges are starting points. Final costs vary based on design complexity, materials, AV and lighting, hanging signs, custom millwork, storage, refurb between shows, and show-specific services like drayage, rigging, and electrical. Premium builds for flagship shows routinely exceed the high end.
For a number tied to your actual show, scope, and goals, run a free ROI audit — we'll pinpoint waste and connect you with vetted builders for real estimates.
Sizing guidance
CES rewards demo-heavy booths with multiple product stations. 20×20 is the smallest size that supports a meaningful tech demo with 2–3 stations. 30×30 unlocks a small theater or partner-pitch stage. 40×40+ is needed for vehicle reveals, broadcast-quality stages, and tiered meeting rooms.
Logistics
LVCC drayage and labor dominate the bill. Pre-stage in a Vegas warehouse, use a local builder fluent in LVCC EAC paperwork, and itemize drayage separately in vendor quotes.
Choosing an execution partner
Most CES exhibitors get burned in three places: under-spec'd power (always order more amperage than estimated), missed I&D crew calls, and last-minute graphic changes that trigger rush production. Pick a builder that has staffed a CES booth in the last 24 months — not just any LVCC show.
Related resources
Frequently asked questions
How much does a CES booth cost?
Ranges from $22K (10×10 custom) to $500K+ (40×40+ island with reveal). A typical 20×20 custom CES booth lands $55K–$110K all-in.
When should I start planning my CES booth?
12 months out for premium island space; 6–9 months minimum for any custom build. Rentals can be locked 3–4 months out but options narrow fast.
Where do most CES exhibitors put their booth?
Central Hall houses major consumer electronics. West Hall focuses on automotive and mobility. Venetian Expo houses Eureka Park (startups) and B2B-leaning categories.
Do I need a Las Vegas-based booth builder for CES?
Strongly preferred. Local builders eliminate round-trip cross-country freight, react faster to show-site changes, and price drayage realistically.