EAC Coordination in Tampa
Most major Tampa trade shows at TCC have a designated general service contractor, but exhibitors still have the right to bring in their own crews for specific tasks under EAC rules. Coordinating that relationship correctly is the difference between a smooth install and a billing dispute.
Our Specialties
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 Tampa, Vegas, or Tampa. 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.
When the GSC asserts unexpected jurisdiction
Occasionally a GSC show-manager asserts jurisdiction on a task the manual seems to allow for EAC. The right on-site response is to pay for the GSC labor, finish the install, and resolve the billing post-show with documentation.
We document every GSC/EAC interaction on-site so we can contest billing disputes with evidence.
EAC or coordinator — two ways to engage
Many Tampa clients have a national booth builder with their own EAC team. In those cases we act as local coordinator — interfacing with the GSC, handling local paperwork, and providing backup labor.
When we are the EAC, the scope is broader: full install crew, graphics, AV, and show-hours support, plus all GSC paperwork.
What EAC coordination costs
EAC coordination as a standalone service runs $3,500 to $9,000 per show, depending on complexity. This includes paperwork, COI management, GSC interface, and post-show documentation.
Bundled with a full I&D engagement, EAC coordination is built into the project fee.
Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor Coordination frequently asked questions
Q: Does every Tampa show require EAC registration?
Q: What happens if we skip EAC registration?
Q: Can any contractor be an EAC?
Q: What if our national builder already has an EAC?
Q: How do EAC rules differ between TCC and hotel venues?
Q: Can you EAC for a booth built by another vendor?
Buyer Questions