Where can I find the registration form to set-up at an HEC Event?
The first step toward becoming a registered dealer is completing a dealer profile application directly on our website at the following link: Dealer Application. Once you have completed this step, find registration form links for all events on their individual event pages. Dealers may register online through these links or download and mail a paper registration. All registrations are subject to approval by promoter. Please note, as stated below, we do NOT accept direct sales merchants.
Do you allow direct sales or home party representatives to participate?
Prospective HEC dealers who emphasize uniqueness and/or quality in their merchandise selection are encouraged to apply with us here. Dealers of items such as beauty products, health supplements, mass-produced home décor, pyramid sales, etc. are not appropriate for our events.
What types of merchandise do you allow?
Various events we produce have different guidelines.
- Antique Shows: Heritage Event Company actively advertises to our customers they can be confident that our events contain genuine antique and vintage merchandise. HEC dealer registrations for these events stipulate that no more than 15% of your booth may consist of content outside of these guidelines. This rule is in place to allow for decorative accents and smaller, properly represented items that are complementary to the theme of the show.
- Toy and comic shows, the theme of your booth should be pop-culture related. This could include old toys, new toys, comics, apparel, records, video games, any hard media collectibles (VHS, Audio, Books, etc.)
How much does it cost to set-up a booth? May I rent just a table and not an entire booth?
- In Antique Shows, spaces are typically sold in 10′ x 10′ or 10’ x 12’ segments. Many dealers purchase multiple segments to create larger booths. Each segment is priced in the range of $135 to $225 each, depending on the show. Each dealer is allowed to rent up to 4 segments. We do not allow the purchase of tables only in our antique show events.
- In Toy/Comic Shows, we typically sell by the table with a few booth space options available. Per table pricing ranges from $35-$55. Booth space ranges from $130-$170 per 10x10, depending on venue and location.
Do I have to use your tables, or may I bring my own? Do my tables need to be covered?
- This answer applies to antique shows: We allow dealers the option to bring their own tables or you may rent tables from us. Our table rental fees range from $10-$15 each, depending on the event. All tables must be covered, preferably to the floor. Under no circumstances may storage crates or cardboard boxes be visible during open show hours. We prefer the use of flame-retardant table clothes. Under no circumstances may dealers use any item made of plastic material to cover tables. The promoter reserves the right to request dealers change table covering if the material used is found to not be appropriate.
- Most tables are supplied by HEC for our toy show events. Tables are not required to be covered, but we encourage the use of coverings in order to hide unsightly items from public view (boxes etc). Plastic table coverings are acceptable at toy show events.
May I bring animals to your shows?
Only animals approved as service animals are allowed in HEC events.
May I view the floor plan? May I request a certain spot as a Dealer?
Several of our standard floorplans are available for viewing on their respective show pages. These layouts may be modified occasionally based on the number of dealers participating in an event. Established dealers have first right in requesting space placement. New dealers should request their top three preferences for space on their registration, but are not guaranteed specific placement. You will receive your booth assignment when you check-in at load-in. This is necessary due to the common need for last minute changes caused by short-notice cancellations. If you do not see a floorplan shown on a respective show page, HEC has likely chosen not to publish this information as we expect to modify the current plan.
Do I have to collect sales tax? Do I need a sales tax number? What is the tax rate?
Sales tax laws and permit requirements vary by state. Before the show, you will be notified of the steps necessary to complete prior to the show, which forms you will need to complete and whether or not the state requires a sales tax permit to be obtained. In most cases, sales tax permits are NOT necessary, and you will be able to complete special event tax forms onsite.
Do you have help available for me to unload?
Yes, we will have porter help available at every show, but you MUST notify us in advance if you expect to need porter help. There is a charge for this service.
Will there be electrical access in my booth?
Electrical access is almost always available at our events, but the price range varies depending on the policies of the facility. Expect to pay anywhere from $12 to $40 for electrical access. In all circumstances, you are responsible for supplying your own extension cords. The use of household cords (i.e. Christmas tree type cords / brown non-grounded types) is prohibited. If possible, we advise a minimum cord length of 30’ and suggest that you come prepared to tape down and secure your cords if they could potentially pose a safety hazard.
I don’t know what to do when I get to the event! Will you help me?
Rest assured we are here to help you every step of the way! In the weeks leading up to the event, participating dealers will receive “Dealer Updates” via email containing the answers to all types of questions, such as: Where do I go to unload? Can we drive into the facility? Do you supply dollies? Do you have a designated hotel block for dealers? Are chairs available? When can we get in each day? We try to cover all the bases in advance so you will know what to expect and we can take the pressure off for everyone involved.
How do you advertise eventS?
With over 20 years of advertising and marketing experience, you can rest assured that we will take the appropriate measures necessary to bring your potential customers to an event. We regularly advertise on television, radio, billboards, in newspapers and trade publications. Promotional postcards are mailed to previous customers on our mailing list before every show. We have a strong online presence and a firm grasp on the concept that social media marketing is an essential part of reaching prospective customers in today’s world.
Do you have security present?
Heritage Event Company carefully evaluates every venue to determine what security measures are necessary. We take your safety and the security of your merchandise seriously. Dealers are not allowed to enter the show floor outside of dealer access hours unless personally supervised by a security officer or HEC staff member. Regardless of the various measures we take to protect you and your belongings, we highly advise you to invest in personal security equipment for use in your booth, especially if you carry items of high value, such as (but not limited to) estate jewelry, gold coins or rare antiquities. Personal insurance to cover your merchandise is also advised as Heritage Event Company does NOT provide any policy coverage that protects dealers from loss.