15 Aug How to Store and Reuse Print Materials Between Events
Ready to extend the value of your trade show graphics and print materials? As long as you store them correctly, you can use them again and again. Not only does this save you time and money, it also reduces waste and keeps your branding consistent. Here are a few practical tips for storing and repurposing your trade show graphics and displays.
Storing Trade Show Graphics
Protecting trade show graphics means keeping them free from dust, sunlight, and moisture. You can pack and store your graphics flat or rolled, depending on their size. Hold onto the protective cases, product packaging or transport materials they’ve been carried or shipped in, and use them to make storage more convenient.
Give items a once-over before packing them away. Look for areas of damage, and wipe away dust or grime. Storage areas that are cool and dry are best; choose locations where the risk of sunlight and moisture are low.
Protect Event Displays
At your event, carry and store bulky items in padded bags and crates. Be careful when stacking items to avoid bending, cracking or breaking. Use hand trucks and dollies to lower the risk of dropping displays and stands.
Group and label all your trade show items so they can be set up and taken down smoothly and quickly, and keep all the components stored together.
Include a small on-site prep kit with your trade show materials. Have white gloves, cleaning cloths, and packing tape ready so you can take down and prepare items for storage after the exhibition.
Reusing Trade Show Materials
The best way to reuse trade show materials is by knowing what you already have on hand. Maintain a detailed inventory of your items, including when and where they were last used. Refresh older graphics by pairing them with new ones. If you have a deep stock of trade show materials, be sure to rotate through them to keep your booth looking fresh.
As you evaluate your options in preparation for your next event, look at every item you’re considering reusing with a critical eye. Any pieces that are faded, damaged or worn should be replaced. Get maximum use out of less-than-perfect items by cutting them down for backdrops in tighter spaces.
Plan Ahead When You Design Your Exhibits
The next time you’re preparing for a trade show or exhibition, let the idea of repurposing your printed materials guide you through the design process. Use standard booth sizes, evergreen messages, and versatile graphics.
Avoid using dates in your print materials so they can be stored and used again. There are many ways to incorporate event-specific information without re-doing all of your trade show materials every time. For instance, replaceable panels allow you to change out old graphics for new ones.
High Quality Printing Makes It Easy to Reuse Trade Show Materials
If you want your trade show displays to last, high-quality printing is a must. The cost of premium materials might seem high, but it will save you a lot of money in the long run, because your exhibits will be made to last.
As a leading print shop with extensive experience in printing trade show materials, we can get you set up with printed materials that will last long after your next event. Contact us to request a quote for graphics, displays, brochures, or banners today.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels used with permission under license for commercial use 08/15/2025.