Exhibitors Q&A

What is GES?

GES (Global Experience Specialists) is a company that provides services for trade shows, exhibitions, and live events. They handle things like:

  • Designing and building booths and displays
  • Installing and dismantling exhibitor setups
  • Managing logistics (shipping, storage, materials handling)
  • Providing furniture, signage, and equipment rentals

What is included with our exhibition or sponsorship package?

As part of your partnership, you benefit from basic handling (from the GES warehouse to the venue) and installation services through GES for your exhibition booth, meaning that the delivery and installation of curtains, booth, chairs & tables are all included. If you wish additional decorations or furniture, you can rent a variety of items directly on the GES platform.

Do I have to use the GES services?

Use of GES services is not mandatory. Exhibitors may arrange their own transportation and logistics, provided all deliveries comply with the event’s scheduled timelines, meaning delivery must be before August 7th at the GES Warehouse* or August 17th & 18th at the venue, between 9 AM & 4 PM. 

The shipping address to the GES warehouse is:
4700, rue Garand, Saint‑Laurent, Québec, H4R 2A2, Canada. Your label must clearly indicate the name of the event (ISFG 2026 Congress) and booth number.

Choosing GES, however, offers a streamlined, worry‑free experience, saving you time while ensuring seamless coordination from delivery to setup.

*For those requiring advance storage, GES warehouse support remains available.

Am I allowed to hand-carry my booth equipment instead of using GES services?

Yes, exhibitors may hand-carry their booth materials if they are simple and lightweight. However, it is important to ensure that all items are properly declared and cleared through customs ahead of time to prevent any delays or complications.

How to declare and clear our equipment through the Canadian border?

To declare and clear your equipment through the Canadian border, you will need to work with a licensed Customs Broker. While you are welcome to use your own broker, please note that the ISFG Congress has an official partnership with ConsultExpo through GES.

ConsultExpo & GES will support exhibitors by consulting, guiding, and assisting you through all customs and shipping requirements for the event, helping ensure a smooth and compliant process.

Do I have to declare everything, including small electronics & office furniture?

Yes, exhibitors are required to declare all items entering Canada for the event, regardless of size or value. This includes small electronics and office furniture. Proper declaration is essential to ensure a smooth customs clearance process and to avoid any potential delays or issues at the border.

Will there be importation tariffs for the material brought at this event?

Import tariffs and regulations are subject to change, so they cannot be guaranteed in advance. The safest way to avoid potential duties is to ensure that the materials brought into Canada are returned to your home country after the event. Bringing back only the items you originally imported helps minimize the risk of tariffs or additional charges.

How much can I expect to pay for all the different services listed above?

Costs will vary depending on several factors, including the weight and size of your materials, transportation method, and the complexity of customs clearance. Because of this, it is difficult to provide a fixed estimate in advance.

If your company already has its own transportation provider and customs broker, your costs may be minimal. However, if you choose to use our official services, pricing will depend on your specific requirements.

The best way to obtain an accurate estimate is to request a personalized quotation directly through the GES platform

How much in advance do I have to ship to make sure everything is ready for the event?

Shipping timelines can vary significantly depending on the origin and mode of transport. It is important to remember that Canada is a large country, and inland transport can add additional time. For example, shipments arriving by sea from regions such as Asia or Oceania may need to be transferred via rail to reach Montréal, which can extend delivery times.

For partners shipping from Europe or Africa directly to Montréal, transit times are generally shorter. Air freight is typically the fastest option regardless of origin.

Because of these variables, the recommended timeline will depend on your specific shipment. The best way to ensure everything arrives on time is to coordinate your logistics in advance with GES and ConsultExpo, who can guide you through the scheduling process and help ensure timely delivery to the event.

How do I ship back the material to my home country?

The easiest and most efficient way to return your materials to your home country is to book a round-trip service with ConsultExpo. This option helps save time, reduces stress, and ensures your return logistics are handled smoothly from start to finish.

If you choose to use your own transportation provider, please ensure that pickup is completed by 10 PM on the day of dismantling, August 21st. If your carrier is not on-site by that time, ConsultExpo will need to transfer your materials to their warehouse to clear the venue for upcoming events. Please note that this will result in additional handling and storage charges.

Any tips to make sure everything is all set for the event?

Yes! Here are a few tips to help ensure everything is ready for the event:

  • Plan early: Start coordinating logistics, shipping, and customs well in advance to avoid last-minute delays.
  • Work with official partners: Using services from GES and ConsultExpo helps streamline transportation, storage, and customs clearance.
  • Prepare documentation carefully: Make sure all shipments are properly declared, clearly labeled, and accompanied by complete customs paperwork.
  • Confirm delivery timing: Ensure your materials are scheduled to arrive within the official delivery windows for the event.
  • Double-check return logistics: Plan in advance how materials will be shipped back after the event to avoid complications or tariffs.

Following these steps will help ensure a smooth, stress-free setup and a successful presence at the event.