If you are researching the industry and will be attending the Mid America Trucking Show (MATS) for the first time, I offer the following:
1. The show is huge! You cannot see it all in the three days the show goes on. To use the show to maximum advantage, plan your time.
2. If you are coming to MATS to learn more about expediting, start there first. The Expedite Experience displays and carrier booths are in the West Wing. By starting there first, you can return later if any additional questions come to mind.
3. Arrive early, before the show opens. While truck parking is available, the parking lots are large. Some lots are remote with shuttle service. Get there early to park in the convention center lot. If your dogs are barking (tired feet), you'll appreciate the shorter walk back to your truck or car.
4. Bring a bag or pick one up at the show for literature. Pick up EVERY piece of literature EVERY expediting carrier offers. You can sort it out at home and toss what you don't need. Plan a trip back to your vehicle to drop off the bag which can grow in weight.
5. Use the MATS web site (www.truckingshow.com) to familiarize yourself with the floor plan and exhibitor locations. Map out ahead of time the booths you want to be sure to check out.
6. If you can, leave time for wandering around. You never know what might catch your eye or inspire new thoughts. For some, it's the Hooters girls. For others it's the gospel singers at the chapel exhibit. For still others, it's shiney engines rotating on pedastals under bright lights.
7. When you first arrive, check out the seminar schedule. Some may be of great interest. Diane and I have attended the owner/operator seminar presented by American Truck Business Services before. It is on our must-see list this year too. It's an outstanding two-hours of information for truck driver/business people of all stripes. Their seminar this year is on Friday, 2:00 to 4:00.
8. Don't be shy. Drivers for most carriers can be seen all day long stopping by their carriers' booths just to say hi. It's OK to stop them when they walk away and ask your questions of them. Most will be happy to chat.
9. And of course stop by the EO booth to say hi too!
1. The show is huge! You cannot see it all in the three days the show goes on. To use the show to maximum advantage, plan your time.
2. If you are coming to MATS to learn more about expediting, start there first. The Expedite Experience displays and carrier booths are in the West Wing. By starting there first, you can return later if any additional questions come to mind.
3. Arrive early, before the show opens. While truck parking is available, the parking lots are large. Some lots are remote with shuttle service. Get there early to park in the convention center lot. If your dogs are barking (tired feet), you'll appreciate the shorter walk back to your truck or car.
4. Bring a bag or pick one up at the show for literature. Pick up EVERY piece of literature EVERY expediting carrier offers. You can sort it out at home and toss what you don't need. Plan a trip back to your vehicle to drop off the bag which can grow in weight.
5. Use the MATS web site (www.truckingshow.com) to familiarize yourself with the floor plan and exhibitor locations. Map out ahead of time the booths you want to be sure to check out.
6. If you can, leave time for wandering around. You never know what might catch your eye or inspire new thoughts. For some, it's the Hooters girls. For others it's the gospel singers at the chapel exhibit. For still others, it's shiney engines rotating on pedastals under bright lights.
7. When you first arrive, check out the seminar schedule. Some may be of great interest. Diane and I have attended the owner/operator seminar presented by American Truck Business Services before. It is on our must-see list this year too. It's an outstanding two-hours of information for truck driver/business people of all stripes. Their seminar this year is on Friday, 2:00 to 4:00.
8. Don't be shy. Drivers for most carriers can be seen all day long stopping by their carriers' booths just to say hi. It's OK to stop them when they walk away and ask your questions of them. Most will be happy to chat.
9. And of course stop by the EO booth to say hi too!
