Every January, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) transforms Las Vegas into the world’s largest stage for technology innovation. For companies preparing to exhibit, success depends on more than just showing up—it’s about strategic planning, flawless execution, and delivering an engaging booth experience that draws the right audience.  At The Trade Show Network, we understand that managing a 20x20 rental booth at a global event like CES requires coordination across design, logistics, marketing, and sales. To help you make the most of your investment, we’ve developed a detailed timeline and management plan leading up to CES 2026 (January 6–9, 2026).

Phase 1: Define Your Strategy and Budget (October–November 2025)

Start with your purpose. Are you launching a new product, generating qualified leads, or strengthening brand visibility? The goals you set will shape every decision moving forward.

Key actions by early November 2025:

Define primary show objectives (e.g., 500 leads, 20 key prospect meetings)

Set a realistic booth and overall budget

Assign roles across marketing, sales, logistics, and design teams

Confirm your 20x20 rental booth space and initial show service orders with CES

Phase 2: Booth Design and Logistics Planning (November–December 2025)

Your 20x20 rental booth is your stage—its design impacts visitor experience and engagement.

Tasks to complete:

Collaborate with an exhibit partner to finalize layout, lighting, and interactive features

Approve final booth renderings, including signage, graphics, flooring, and counters

Plan shipping logistics and on-site labor in accordance with CES deadlines

Book travel and hotel for your team

Design pre-show marketing collateral with consistent branding and booth number

Phase 3: Pre-Show Marketing and Final Preparation (December 2025–January 2026)

Focus shifts from planning to promotion and preparation.

Checklist:

Finalize graphics, promotional materials, and giveaways

Train staff on messaging, product demos, and lead capture

Launch pre-show marketing campaigns via email, LinkedIn, and press releases

Schedule meetings with top prospects, media, and partners

Order booth utilities: electricity, Wi-Fi, furniture, and cleaning

Pack a show kit with tools, chargers, and extra materials

Pro Tip: Keep a “show kit” with essentials handy—it saves time and stress onsite.

Phase 4: On-Site Execution (January 4–10, 2026)

Setup (Jan 4–5): Ensure your 20x20 rental booth is installed correctly. Check lighting, graphics, and demo stations.

Show Days (Jan 6–9):

Engage attendees proactively

Conduct short, interactive product demos

Capture leads in a digital system tied to CRM

Post live updates on social media with hashtags like #CES2026

Monitor traffic and adjust staff/demo schedules as needed

Teardown (Jan 9–10): Coordinate dismantling and outbound shipping. Photograph your booth for future reference.

Phase 5: Post-Show Follow-Up and ROI Analysis (January–February 2026)

Import and categorize leads into your CRM

Send personalized follow-ups within one week

Publish post-show updates on your website and social media

Compare results to objectives and analyze ROI

Conduct a team debrief and archive booth assets for next year

CES 2026 Booth Management Timeline (Sample)

Partner with The Trade Show Network for CES 2026

Planning a 20x20+ rental booth for CES requires precision and expertise. From booth design and logistics coordination to marketing strategy and ROI reporting, The Trade Show Network delivers turnkey solutions that elevate your brand and simplify trade show management. Whether it’s a 10x20 or 20x20+ custom booth or rental exhibit, we handle the details so your team can focus on connecting with customers and generating leads.

Ready to plan your CES 2026 exhibit?
Contact The Trade Show Network today: www.thetradeshownetwork.com