Breakbulk Americas 2026 | TradeShowIntel

Name: Breakbulk Americas 2026
Start: 2026-09-22
End: 2026-09-23
Location: George R. Brown Convention Center

Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at Breakbulk Americas 2026 include Abbey USA Inc, ACME TRUCK LINE, INC, Advanced Freight Dynamics LLC, AGS LLC and AGT Global Logistics.

Abbey USA Inc
ACME TRUCK LINE, INC
Advanced Freight Dynamics LLC
AGS LLC
AGT Global Logistics

Event overview

Overview

Breakbulk Americas is North America’s largest exhibition dedicated to the breakbulk and project cargo industry, bringing together shippers, carriers, ports, forwarders and service providers for two days of business, networking and industry-led content.

TL;DR

1Dates and venue: September 22–23, 2026 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.
2Largest dedicated breakbulk and project cargo exhibition in North America.
3Exhibitors span ports, terminals, carriers, heavy-lift transport, forwarders and logistics tech providers.
4Content includes industry seminars and new stages such as Breakbulk Live and Breakbulk Voices.
5Networking highlights include events like Cargo & Cowboys and other community meet-ups.

Why visit

Visiting Breakbulk Americas allows project owners, EPCs and cargo decision-makers to benchmark logistics partners, discover new solutions for complex transport, and stay current on market developments. Attendees gain real-world insight from industry-led seminars and can meet a broad cross-section of carriers, ports, forwarders and service providers in one place, improving their ability to plan and execute future projects.

Why exhibit

Exhibiting at Breakbulk Americas gives logistics providers, ports, carriers and equipment firms direct access to the rapidly expanding U.S. and wider Americas project cargo market. Exhibitors can position themselves in front of key EPCs, project owners and industrial shippers, use the show’s seminar stages to reinforce thought leadership, and build new relationships with decision-makers across breakbulk and heavy-lift supply chains.

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Project owners and cargo owners in energy, infrastructure and industrial sectors

EPC contractors and engineering firms

Supply chain, logistics and procurement managers overseeing project cargo

Port and terminal decision-makers seeking partners and solutions

Forwarders and brokers looking to expand breakbulk networks

Government, trade and association representatives focused on transport and investment

Manufacturing and industrial firms

Government and trade officials

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Breakbulk and project cargo logistics companies

Ocean carriers and multipurpose/heavy-lift shipping lines

Ports, terminals and stevedoring firms

Heavy-haul and rigging companies

Freight forwarders and customs brokers

Rail, barge and road transport providers

Equipment manufacturers and crane/rigging specialists

Software and technology providers serving project logistics

Rail and road transport firms

Barge transport providers

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Breakbulk and project cargo logistics services

Heavy-lift, rigging and specialised transport equipment

Port and terminal services for non-containerised cargo

Multipurpose and heavy-lift shipping

Freight forwarding and customs brokerage

Rail, barge and road transport solutions

Handling, storage and warehousing for project cargo

Planning and engineering services for complex moves

Digital platforms and tracking solutions for project logistics

Barge transport

Warehousing and storage

Customs brokerage

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

Halls A and B

George R. Brown Convention Center

1001 Avenida De Las Americas, 77010 Houston, USA

Entrances & gates

Main GRB entrance on Avenida De Las Americas

Halls A and B

Primary access from downtown and the Avenida garages; follow Breakbulk signage to registration and the exhibition halls.

Floor plans & maps

Floor plan (PDF)Floor plan 2026 Hall & site plans Venue navigation map Official venue page

Facilities

Parking

GRB has no dedicated public parking lot of its own, but two on-campus garages (Avenida North and Tundra) offer walking-distance parking, with ADA-accessible spaces and bike parking; a third garage (Avenida Central) is temporarily closed and a new Avenida South Garage is due to open in Fall 2026. Additional privately operated lots and metered street parking (via ParkHouston) surround the campus.

Accessibility

The George R. Brown Convention Center is described as fully ADA compliant, with accessible parking spaces in the on-campus garages and services for guests with disabilities throughout the facility.

Parking: The Practical Information page lists four main Avenida garages (North, Central, South) and the Tundra Garage connected to the convention center and nearby hotels via skybridges, offering several thousand parking spaces directly linked to the GRB campus.

Gate: Breakbulk Americas notes that Halls A and B at the George R. Brown Convention Center form the core exhibition space; attendees typically access the show through the main GRB entrances on Avenida De Las Americas and follow onsite signage to the Breakbulk registration and hall entrances.

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

According to Breakbulk Americas Practical Information, exhibition show hours for 2026 areTuesday Sept 22, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (with a Welcome Reception on the show floor), and Wednesday Sept 23, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Visitor
Early registration rate available through June 6, 2026 according to registration-opening press coverage.
Early bird$389.00
Global Shipper
The Secure Your Ticket page lists a visitor price band of USD 299–389; use 299 as a mid-range reference for planning.
$299.00
Student & Faculty
Approved Global Shippers attend for free under the Breakbulk Global Shipper Program.
Bulk Tickets
Approved students and faculty can attend free under the student/faculty category.
Early bird$389.00
Press & Media
Accredited media attend free, subject to confirmation by the organiser.

Ticket info

Badge collection

Visitor registration is required and trade-focused; only attendees who need access to the show floor on show days must register. Badges must always be worn to gain access to the exhibition halls and can be printed on-site from Tuesday, September 22, 2026. Contractors and stand builders use coloured wristbands for build-up and breakdown and do not register for exhibitor badges.

Ticket notes

Breakbulk Americas tickets increase in price as the event approaches. Visitors purchase a paid ticket; Global Shippers, students and faculty, and accredited media may attend free once approved. All ticket sales are final; purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable and must be paid by credit card (no bank transfers or invoicing).

Build-up & tear-down

Setup starts21 Sep 2026

Setup ends21 Sep 2026

Teardown starts23 Sep 2026

Teardown ends24 Sep 2026

Who runs the show

Organisers

Hyve Group PLC

event organiser

Website

Breakbulk Events & Media

event brand and content organiser for Breakbulk Americas

Website

Breakbulk Support

General exhibitor and visitor support

Email Call Website

Jamie Reesby

Event Director – Breakbulk Americas

Email Call Website

Christian Thompson

Key Account Director / Global Key Account Director

Call Website

Leslie Meredith

Marketing Director / Product Director

Email Call Website

What's on

Programme

Breakfast

Keynote

Event days

08:30–16:30

Typical time

Official agenda

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Speakers

Jake Swanson

Chief Commercial Officer @ DHL Global Forwarding – Industrial Projects

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Agustin Harriague

Vice President, Logistics and Supply Chain Operational Excellence @ Mitsubishi Power Americas

Amanda Duhon

VP & Regional Director, North & Central America @ Energy Industries Council (EIC)

Ben Banks

President and CEO @ BNSF Logistics

Ben Collins

Global Project Cargo Manager @ MSC

Curtis D. Spencer

CEO @ IMS Worldwide, Inc

Cyril Varghese

Global Logistics Director @ Fluor

Dr. Salvatore R. Mercogliano

Maritime Historian, Campbell University & Podcast Host, What's Going On With Shipping? @ Campbell University

Edward M. Emmett

Fellow in Energy and Transportation, Former Harris County Judge @ Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy

Guillermina del Pino

Head of Project Logistics Americas @ Siemens Energy Inc

Henrik Hansen

General Manager @ AAL Shipping (AAL) Americas

Jennifer Schuster

President/COO @ Edwards Moving & Rigging / SC&RA

Margaret A. Kidd

Department Chair, Logistics & Supply Chain Management @ San Jacinto College

Patrick Hyslop

Event Director, Breakbulk @ Hyve

Steve W. Hill

Director, Global Logistics & Trade Compliance @ McDermott International

Vedran Muratbegovic

SVP, Industrial @ Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Nick Baker

Managing Director, Trade & Customs @ Kroll

Jay Acayan

Managing Partner @ Roberts & Kehagiaras LLP

Diana Davila

Senior VP of US Operations @ UTC Overseas, Inc.

Ryan Mariacher

Chief Port Operations Officer @ Port Houston

KEYNOTE: A New Era of U.S. Maritime Strategy

Keynote

Monday, Sep 21, 2026

21:00 – 04:30

Chartering Workshop

Workshop

21:00 – 04:30

Heavy Lift Workshop

Workshop

Tuesday, Sep 22, 2026

08:30 – 10:30

Women in Breakbulk Breakfast

Breakfast

10:30 – 10:45

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Keynote

Breakbulk Live Stage

10:45 – 11:30

Keynote Conversation: What Gets Built and Why

Keynote

Breakbulk Live Stage

12:10 – 12:55

Regional Supply Chains and the New Push for Control

Session

Breakbulk Voices Stage

13:40 – 14:25

Critical Minerals and the New Americas Supply Chain

Session

Breakbulk Voices Stage

Wednesday, Sep 23, 2026

15:30 – 16:30

Drinks to the Future Reception

Reception

Breakbulk Live Stage

Topic tracks

Energy ProjectsTrade HorizonsRisky Business

Co-located seminars

NextWave Education Day

Paid

Executive Summit

Paid

Awards

NextWave 30 Awards

Annual

Award celebrating exceptional professionals under the age of 30 who are making an impact across the project cargo and breakbulk industry.

source

Government supporters

Port authorities and host port partners (Americas region)

Host port and regional port supporters referenced in Breakbulk Americas communications

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Last edition

2025

Completed

Visitors: 6,250

Exhibitors: 330

Visitor countries: 68

This edition

2026

Visitors: 6,250

Exhibitors: 330

Next edition

2026

Breakbulk Americas 2026 takes place September 22-23 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, moving to a more compact two-day format. The organiser is promoting the edition as its most impactful yet, introducing a modernised show-floor build standard and a redefined two-stage content program (Breakbulk Live and Breakbulk Voices) built around three themes: Energy Projects, Trade Horizons, and Risky Business.

Shortened two-day exhibition format (from a prior three-day format) Modernised exhibition build standard replacing traditional pipe-and-drape stands Two new dedicated content stages: Breakbulk Live and Breakbulk Voices Three curated 2026 programme themes: Energy Projects, Trade Horizons, and Risky Business

Growth over time

Edition recap

Breakbulk Americas 2025 marked the show's 35th anniversary, running September 30-October 2 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston. The organiser reported record-breaking numbers: over 6,250 industry professionals, 440 global shippers, and 330 exhibitors from 68 countries, with 48 of 50 US states represented.

Milestone-edition programming included the inaugural Project Power Awards, a 35th-anniversary Welcome Reception and after-party at The Rustic, a record-attendance Women in Breakbulk Networking Luncheon, and NextWave Education Day, alongside a keynote from maritime historian Dr. Salvatore R. Mercogliano on the SHIPS for America Act.

New this edition

1
New Dates & A More Compact Format
Breakbulk Americas 2026 moves to a shorter, two-day exhibition format (September 22-23) designed to concentrate activity, increase meeting density, and maximize time on the show floor compared with the previous three-day format.
Source
2
A Modernised Exhibition Experience
The 2026 edition removes traditional pipe-and-drape stands in favor of a cleaner, more contemporary build standard intended to elevate the professional look of the show floor.
Source
3
New Content Stages: Breakbulk Live and Breakbulk Voices
A redefined content experience for 2026 introduces two dedicated stages, Breakbulk Live and Breakbulk Voices, covering big-picture market insights, leadership perspectives, and practical case studies.
Source

Photos

After-Party at The Rustic, celebrating Breakbulk Americas' 35th anniversary in 2025

2025 NextWave Education Day, connecting students with breakbulk industry professionals

2025 Project Power Awards Ceremony, Breakbulk Americas' inaugural industry awards

2025 Welcome Reception, sponsored by Cooper/Ports America, on the show floor

2025 Women in Breakbulk Networking Luncheon

Rise & Reset wellness session for Women in Breakbulk, 2025 edition

Testimonials

“The show is definitely growing – we've seen more people this year than last year. It's exciting because we've been able to make great connections. We see everybody here, from students expanding their knowledge to vendors, the media and companies we work with.”
Fatima de Leon · Marketing, Branding and External Communications Manager · Port Houston · Featured on 2026 platform

“The biggest thing we get out of being here is getting to meet customers and vendors we'd never normally get to see. This is an opportunity – maybe the only one all year long – to make those connections and put faces to names.”
Rodney Revells · Director of Business Development · Gulf States Trucking · Featured on 2026 platform

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

Breakbulk Americas 2025 was the organiser's largest and highest-attendance edition to date, marking the event's 35th anniversary with over 6,250 industry professionals, 440 global shippers, and 330 exhibitors from 68 countries. The organiser highlighted broad US geographic reach (48 of 50 states represented) and record participation in flagship side events such as the Women in Breakbulk Networking Luncheon, the After-Party at The Rustic, and NextWave Education Day, positioning the show as the primary Americas hub for project cargo and breakbulk logistics networking.

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The organiser describes the 2025 audience as senior decision-makers across the project cargo supply chain, including EPCs, energy companies, ports and terminals, ocean and specialized carriers, freight forwarders, and project logistics executives. The event drew 440 global shippers (cargo owners) alongside the general trade audience, and attendee testimonials on the official site describe the show as an efficient concentration of key partners, customers, and suppliers for the North American project cargo market.

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

The organiser's official pages do not publish specific exhibitor ROI figures (such as leads generated or deal values) for the 2025 edition. Third-party exhibitor-marketing sources cite claims such as high post-show pipeline growth and lead-conversion rates, but these are not sourced from Breakbulk Americas' own reporting and are not included here as verified event facts.

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

The Americas (North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean), with Houston as the strategic hub for oil & gas, energy, infrastructure, and industrial project cargo.

Why it matters

The U.S. project cargo market is resurging with major infrastructure, energy, and industrial investments, making Breakbulk Americas 2026 a critical gathering for decision-makers. The event serves as the premier Americas hub for non-containerised, heavy-lift and project logistics, connecting cargo owners, EPCs, ports, carriers, forwarders, and equipment specialists across North, Central, and South America plus the Caribbean. With over 6,250 attendees and 330+ exhibitors from 68 countries in 2025, the show offers unmatched networking and business development for firms targeting the region's project-rich sectors including oil & gas, petrochemicals, mining, metals, and industrial manufacturing.

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Resurging U.S. Project Market

Major investments in U.S. infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects are driving breakbulk activity, with stalled projects moving again and momentum building into 2026.

Source

Latin American Mining Boom

Surging minerals demand is powering logistics growth in South America, driving breakbulk activity amid complex challenges.

Source

Port Infrastructure Modernization

Ports like Galveston are investing over US$100 million to boost general cargo and breakbulk capabilities, reflecting a broader trend of modernization across the Americas.

Source

Digital Tracking for Project Cargo

New mobile apps and platforms are adding live GPS tracking and EPC-informed features to improve visibility and coordination for road and project shipments.

Source

M&A Activity Strengthening U.S. Capabilities

Strategic acquisitions like OIA Global's purchase of Cargo Services Inc are expanding project cargo capabilities and network reach in the U.S. market.

Source

Energy and Refinery Projects Driving Demand

Large-scale refinery and industrial complexes, such as the AFR project at Port of Brownsville, are creating sustained demand for engineering, heavy-lift, and project logistics services.

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Rhenus Leads Mega Rail Move From China to Brazil

Read

First Look at Emerger's Mobile App for Project Cargo Shippers

Read

UTC Overseas Launches UTC Project Argentina

Read

OIA Global Acquires Cargo Services Inc in the US

Read

Fluor To Engineer, Design Large-Scale Refinery in Texas

Read

Galveston Port Overhaul Set for 2026 Completion

Read

Surging Minerals Demand Powers Growth in Logistics

Read

Global Breakbulk & Project Cargo Event Circuit

12–18 months for major exhibitions; 6–9 months for conferences

The breakbulk and project cargo industry follows a global circuit of regional trade shows and conferences, anchored by the Breakbulk brand (Americas, Europe, Middle East, Asia) plus co-located project cargo zones at transport logistic fairs and specialist heavy-lift conferences. This circuit enables year-round market access, with major gatherings in Dubai, Rotterdam, Houston, Singapore, Shanghai, Mumbai, and Istanbul, plus niche events for offshore heavy lift and salvage.

4–5 Feb 2026

Breakbulk Middle East 2026

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

2-day exhibition; 10:00–18:00 Day 1, 10:00–17:00 Day 2. Education Day on Day 2.

website

25–27 Feb 2026

transport logistic India & Project Cargo India 2026

Mumbai, India

Part of Messe München's global transport logistic series; project cargo zone debuts in India.

website

16–18 Jun 2026

Breakbulk Europe 2026

Rotterdam, Netherlands

11,400+ professionals, 660+ exhibitors. 3 days; Day 1 11:00–19:00, Day 2 10:00–18:00, Day 3 10:00–16:00.

website

24–26 Jun 2026

transport logistic China & Project Cargo Shanghai 2026

Shanghai, China

Shanghai New International Expo Centre. Project cargo zone launched in partnership with HLPFI.

website

22–23 Sep 2026

Breakbulk Americas 2026

Houston, USA

Region's key hub for Canada to Argentina and the Caribbean; 6,250+ attendees, 330+ exhibitors (2025 data).

website

11–13 Nov 2026

Logitrans Istanbul 2026

Istanbul, Turkey

16,510 visitors (prior edition). Covers road, rail, sea, air, and project logistics.

website

18–19 Nov 2026

Breakbulk Asia 2026

Singapore, Singapore

2-day show; 10:00–18:00 Day 1, 10:00–17:00 Day 2. Focus on energy, infrastructure, industrials, heavy lift.

website

9–10 Dec 2026

Global Salvage & Wreck Forum 2026

London, United Kingdom

Hosted by ISU and IGP&I. Focus on complex, high-profile challenges.

website

Q1 2026

Breakbulk Middle East 2026Transport Logistic India & Project Cargo India 2026

Middle East and India kick off the year with Dubai and Mumbai events.

Q2 2026

Breakbulk Europe 2026Transport Logistic China & Project Cargo Shanghai 2026

Europe and Asia peak in June with Rotterdam and Shanghai.

Q3 2026

Breakbulk Americas 2026

Americas hub in Houston, September.

Q4 2026

Logitrans Istanbul 2026Breakbulk Asia 2026Global Salvage & Wreck Forum 2026

Year closes with Istanbul, Singapore, and London events.

Dates and details sourced from official Breakbulk event websites (americas.breakbulk.com, europe.breakbulk.com, middleeast.breakbulk.com, asia.breakbulk.com), Messe München transport logistic pages, and event organiser publications.

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · USD

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

HOU

William P. Hobby Airport

Houston's smaller, closer-in airport; primary base for Southwest Airlines with domestic and limited international (Mexico/Caribbean/Central America) service. Ground options include taxi/rideshare (~$29 to downtown), METRO local buses, and a nonstop METRO route to downtown (~$4.50).

Approximately 7-11 miles (11-18 km) southeast of downtown Houston

to venue

15-25 minutes outside rush hour, up to 40 minutes in heavy traffic

by car

IAH

George Bush Intercontinental Airport

Houston's primary international hub and a United Airlines hub with the widest range of long-haul and international connections. METRO's 500 Downtown Direct bus runs roughly every 30 minutes between IAH Terminal C/E and the George R. Brown Convention Center area for about $4.50; taxis/rideshares typically run $44-$75 to downtown.

Approximately 18-23 miles (29-37 km) north of downtown Houston

to venue

26-45 minutes by car outside rush hour; can exceed an hour in heavy traffic

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

budget

Downtown Houston (further from GRB) / EaDo / Midtown

USD 100–160 / night

Estimated nightly rate range for limited-service and select-service hotels a short rideshare or METRORail ride from the convention center; exact 2026 rates are not published by the official housing partner and should be verified via onPeak.

mid range

Downtown Houston / Convention District, within walking distance of GRB

USD 170–260 / night

Estimated nightly rate range for 3-4 star full-service hotels in the immediate downtown/Discovery Green area; exact 2026 group rates are only available through the event's official housing partner, onPeak.

premium

Directly adjacent to GRB via skybridge (Hilton Americas-Houston, Marriott Marquis Houston)

USD 270–450 / night

Estimated nightly rate range for the two headquarters-style hotels connected to the convention center by covered skybridge, typically the most convenient but priciest downtown option during the show; exact 2026 group rates are only available through onPeak.

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Estimated cost$29-$75 depending on airport and traffic

Best forAirport (IAH or HOU) to downtown Houston / GRB

Most flexible door-to-door option; pickup zones are clearly marked at both Houston airports and outside the convention center.

METRORail (light rail)

Estimated costSingle ride around $1.25

Best forDowntown stations (including one directly across from GRB) to Museum District, NRG Park, and other Red Line stops

Best for short hops within downtown and nearby core districts; does not run directly to either airport.

METRO Bus 500 Downtown Direct

Estimated costAround $4.50 one-way

Best forIAH or HOU airport to a stop near the GRB / downtown transit center

Nonstop express bus connecting both Houston airports to downtown; runs roughly every 30 minutes during daytime hours, a cheaper alternative to rideshare or taxi.

Walking

Estimated costFree

Best forHilton Americas-Houston or Marriott Marquis Houston to GRB

Both headquarters hotels connect to the convention center via covered skybridge, roughly a 4-6 minute walk with no shuttle needed.

Taxi

Estimated cost$29-$75 depending on airport and traffic

Best forAirport (IAH or HOU) to downtown Houston / GRB

Available at designated curbside taxi zones at both airports; similar cost range to rideshare.

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa not required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)	Business or tourist travelers from the 42 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries who hold a compliant e-Passport	$40.00	Usually instant to 72 hours
B-1 Business Visitor Visa	Business travelers whose nationality is not part of the Visa Waiver Program, or VWP nationals who are ESTA-ineligible	$185.00	Varies by consulate/embassy; typically weeks to a few months depending on interview wait times, plus administrative processing in some cases
Canadian/Bermudian visa exemption	Citizens of Canada, and many Bermudian citizens, entering for business purposes	—	Not applicable no visa or ESTA required

Whether a visa is required depends entirely on nationality. Citizens of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries (most of Western Europe, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Chile, and others) can attend as business visitors using ESTA instead of a visa, for stays up to 90 days. Canadian citizens (and many Bermudian citizens) generally do not need a visa or ESTA for business visits. All other nationalities need a B-1 business visitor visa obtained in advance from a US embassy or consulate. Attendees should verify their specific nationality's status on the official US Department of State and CBP sites before booking travel.

The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary duty-free import of professional equipment, commercial samples, and exhibition goods, which is standard practice for exhibitors bringing demonstration equipment or marketing materials to US trade shows such as Breakbulk Americas. Exhibitors should confirm specific carnet requirements and any Breakbulk Americas / GRB customs procedures directly with US Customs and Border Protection and their national chamber of commerce issuing the carnet, as this is general US customs policy rather than a Breakbulk-specific rule confirmed on the event's official pages.

Official visa page

Weather

Late September in Houston is warm and humid, typical of the tail end of the region's long summer. Average highs run roughly 87-90°F (30-32°C) with lows around 72-74°F (22-23°C), and relative humidity is among the highest of the year (mid-70s to upper-70s percent). September is also Houston's wettest month on average, with periodic thunderstorms and a small but non-zero chance of tropical weather (roughly 6% chance of a hurricane passing within 100 miles, about 1% for a major storm). Expect hot, sticky conditions outdoors and well-air-conditioned indoor venues.

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Venue access connectivity: The George R. Brown Convention Center sits in downtown Houston's Avenida Houston/Discovery Green district. A METRORail light-rail station is located directly across the street from the venue, connecting downtown to the Museum District, NRG Park, and other Red Line stops. METRO's 500 Downtown Direct bus links both Houston airports (IAH and HOU) to a stop near the convention center. The venue is within walking distance of the two headquarters hotels (Hilton Americas-Houston and Marriott Marquis Houston) via the pedestrian-oriented Avenida Plaza, and is a short walk or rideshare from Discovery Green park, Toyota Center, and Minute Maid Park.

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Business dress and etiquette

US trade-show norms apply: business casual to business formal attire is standard on the show floor, with a handshake as the typical greeting. Punctuality for scheduled meetings and sessions is expected.

Tipping culture

Tipping is customary in the US. Restaurants typically expect 15-20% of the bill, rideshare/taxi drivers appreciate a similar tip, and hotel staff (bellhops, housekeeping) are usually tipped a few dollars per service.

Local Houston flavor

Houston is a major energy, port, and aerospace hub with a large, diverse international population, so business travelers will find a wide range of international cuisine and a cosmopolitan downtown atmosphere alongside classic Texan culture.

Language and payments

English is the primary business language; Spanish is also widely spoken given Houston's large Hispanic community. Card and contactless payments (credit/debit) are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis, transit, and most vendors.

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Houston (HOU or IAH)

Both airports serve downtown Houston; choice mainly depends on airline network and whether the flight is domestic/regional (HOU) or international/long-haul (IAH).

Visa

Visa requirement for Breakbulk Americas 2026 depends on nationality. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country citizens can attend as business visitors using an ESTA travel authorization instead of a visa (stays up to 90 days). Canadian and many Bermudian citizens generally need neither a visa nor ESTA. All other nationalities require a US B-1 business visitor visa obtained in advance.

Processing: ESTA: usually instant to 72 hours. B-1 visa: typically several weeks to a few months depending on consulate interview wait times.

Estimated cost shown ($185) reflects the standard B-1/B-2 MRV visa application fee for non-VWP nationalities; VWP nationals instead pay a $40 ESTA fee. A separate $250 Visa Integrity Fee has been enacted under US law but, as of mid-2026, had not yet begun being collected. Costs and eligibility are nationality-dependent and can change; attendees should confirm current requirements on the official US Department of State (travel.state.gov) and CBP (cbp.gov) websites before booking travel.

Official

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: From IAH: METRO 500 Downtown Direct bus (~$4.50, ~38-40 min) or rideshare/taxi (~$44-$75, 26-45 min). From HOU: METRO local bus or nonstop downtown route (~$4.50) or rideshare/taxi (~$29, 15-25 min).

Hotel → venue: Hilton Americas-Houston and Marriott Marquis Houston connect directly to the GRB via covered skybridge (about a 4-6 minute walk); other downtown hotels are typically a short walk, METRORail ride, or rideshare away.

Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate throughout Houston with designated pickup areas at both airports and near the convention center.

Public transit: METRORail light rail has a stop directly across from the GRB; METRO buses (including the 500 Downtown Direct) connect both airports to downtown.

Parking: GRB has no dedicated public lot of its own but is served by on-campus garages (Avenida Central, Avenida South, Tundra) connected via skybridge, plus nearby private lots and metered street parking.

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: September

Temperature: Approximately 72-90°F (22-32°C), with highs occasionally reaching the mid-90s°F (35°C)

Seasonality: September is Houston's wettest month on average, with periodic thunderstorms and roughly a 25% daily chance of rain; there is also a small (single-digit percent) chance of a tropical system affecting the area.

Packing: Pack lightweight, breathable business attire for hot, humid outdoor conditions, plus a light layer for heavily air-conditioned indoor venues; an umbrella or light rain jacket is worth bringing given the elevated rain chance.

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Default day plan

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Tuesday concentrates the show's confirmed networking touchpoints: the Women in Breakbulk Breakfast in the morning, the full keynote and session lineup on both stages during the day, and the Cargo & Cowboys Welcome Party reception in the evening giving visitors the broadest mix of content and relationship-building in a single day.

T-90

Register interest / confirm ticket availability for Breakbulk Americas 2026 — As of this research, general registration/ticketing details for 2026 should be confirmed directly on the official registration page; third-party listings cite a visitor price around $379 but this is not confirmed on the official site.

T-75

Check nationality-specific visa/ESTA requirements — VWP-country citizens need ESTA; other nationalities need a B-1 visa, which can take weeks to process start early.

T-60

Book flights into IAH or HOU and hotel via onPeak — onPeak is Breakbulk Americas' official, exclusive housing partner; downtown hotel blocks near GRB can sell out for a major show.

T-30

Review the 2026 agenda and exhibitor list, shortlist target sessions and companies — Use the official agenda (Breakbulk Live / Breakbulk Voices stages) and exhibitor list to plan a realistic two-day route.

T-21

Request meetings with priority exhibitors, shippers, or Global Shipper Network contacts — Reach out ahead of the show since floor time is limited to two days in the 2026 format.

T-14

Confirm and print/download badge, plan which side events to attend — Consider Women in Breakbulk Breakfast, Cargo & Cowboys Welcome Party, and BUSINESSrun if relevant.

T-7

Finalize onsite schedule and pack for hot, humid September Houston weather — Expect highs in the high-80s to low-90s°F with high humidity; pack breathable business attire plus a layer for air-conditioned halls.

T-1

Reconfirm hotel, transport plan from airport/hotel to GRB, and any pre-booked meetings — Both headquarters hotels connect to GRB via skybridge; a METRORail stop sits across the street.

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day

Tue Sep 22, 08:30-10:30

Women in Breakbulk Breakfast

George R. Brown Convention Center

Tue Sep 22, 10:00-19:00

Show floor open; exhibitor meetings and browsing

GRB Halls A&B

Tue Sep 22, 10:30-10:45

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Breakbulk Live Stage, GRB

Tue Sep 22, 10:45-11:30

Keynote Conversation: What Gets Built and Why

Breakbulk Live Stage, GRB

Tue Sep 22, 12:10-12:55

Session: Regional Supply Chains and the New Push for Control

Breakbulk Voices Stage, GRB

Tue Sep 22, 16:00-19:00

Cargo & Cowboys: The Welcome Party (informal networking reception)

GRB Halls A&B

Wed Sep 23, 07:30-09:00

BUSINESSrun 5K/10K (optional, $50 entry benefits Mission to Seafarers)

Starts and finishes at George R. Brown Convention Center

Wed Sep 23, 10:00-17:00

Show floor open; final exhibitor meetings and follow-ups

GRB Halls A&B

Wed Sep 23, 15:30-16:30

Drinks to the Future Reception

Breakbulk Live Stage, GRB

Side trips

Discovery Green

Park

Directly across the street from GRB

A downtown park with green space, food trucks, and events an easy walk for a break between sessions.

Toyota Center

Arena / Entertainment Venue

Short walk from GRB

Home of the Houston Rockets; check the schedule for concerts or games during the show dates.

Minute Maid Park

Stadium

Short walk from GRB

Home of the Houston Astros; a good option if a baseball game falls during your stay.

Houston Museum District

Museums

Short METRORail ride from downtown

Cluster of museums (including the Museum of Fine Arts and Houston Museum of Natural Science) for a half-day break from the show.

Space Center Houston

Attraction / Museum

Approximately 25 miles southeast of downtown, best reached by car or rideshare

NASA's official visitor center for Johnson Space Center a popular add-on trip given Houston's aerospace and energy identity.

Networking spots

Cargo & Cowboys: The Welcome Party

official reception

Tuesday, September 22, 4:00-7:00pm at GRB Halls A&B Texas-themed welcome reception opening the show.

Women in Breakbulk Breakfast

official breakfast / networking

Tuesday, September 22, 8:30-10:30am at GRB keynote speaker, panel, and networking activities.

BUSINESSrun

official charity run / networking

Wednesday, September 23, starting 7:30am at GRB - 5K/10K run with $50 entry supporting Mission to Seafarers.

Golf Tournament (Jersey Meadows Golf Club)

official networking / sporting

18-hole scramble with breakfast, lunch, and range balls included; official page lists the date as 'Monday, September 26' starting 8:00am, which does not align with the Sept 22-23 show dates confirm the exact date directly with the organiser before planning around it.

Show floor networking (exhibitor stands, Global Shipper Network)

official / show floor

Core deal-making venue for meeting EPCs, shippers, carriers, and service providers across the two exhibition days.

Budget

Costs & budget

Exhibitor pricing is not publicly listed on the official website; space rates and sponsorship packages are provided upon request via the organiser contact form.

source

Build your working budget

Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

Hotel tier

Budget$130.00/nightMid-range$215.00/nightPremium$360.00/night

Number of nights

Estimated budget

Live estimate

Hotel × 3 nights$390.00
Per diem × 3$207.00
Insurance$35.00

Estimated total$632.00

This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

Cost reference

Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

visitor_ticket

visitor · standard

USD 379 / per_person

estimateAs of 2026-07-29

hotel_budget

both · budget

USD 100–160 / per_night

estimateAs of 2026-07-29

hotel_mid_range

both · mid_range

USD 170–260 / per_night

estimateAs of 2026-07-29

hotel_premium

both · premium

USD 270–450 / per_night

estimateAs of 2026-07-29

esta_travel_authorization

both

USD 40 / per_person

officialAs of 2026-07-29

b1_business_visa

both

USD 185 / per_person

officialAs of 2026-07-29

shell_scheme_booth

exhibitor · shell_scheme

USD 450–700 / per_sqm

estimateAs of 2026-07-29

raw_space_booth

exhibitor · space_only

USD 380–550 / per_sqm

estimateAs of 2026-07-29

per_diem

both

USD 70–110 / per_day

estimateAs of 2026-07-29

businessrun_entry_fee

visitor

USD 50 / per_person

officialAs of 2026-07-29

Item	For	Tier	Estimated range	Status	As of
visitor_ticket	visitor	standard	USD 379 / per_person	estimate	2026-07-29
hotel_budget	both	budget	USD 100–160 / per_night	estimate	2026-07-29
hotel_mid_range	both	mid_range	USD 170–260 / per_night	estimate	2026-07-29
hotel_premium	both	premium	USD 270–450 / per_night	estimate	2026-07-29
esta_travel_authorization	both		USD 40 / per_person	official	2026-07-29
b1_business_visa	both		USD 185 / per_person	official	2026-07-29
shell_scheme_booth	exhibitor	shell_scheme	USD 450–700 / per_sqm	estimate	2026-07-29
raw_space_booth	exhibitor	space_only	USD 380–550 / per_sqm	estimate	2026-07-29
per_diem	both		USD 70–110 / per_day	estimate	2026-07-29
businessrun_entry_fee	visitor		USD 50 / per_person	official	2026-07-29

Decision

Visit, exhibit, or skip?

Should you go?

Answer a few quick questions about your role, market fit, and timeline your Breakbulk Americas 2026 recommendation updates as you go.

QUESTION 1 OF 8

What's your primary role in the project cargo / breakbulk supply chain?

Decision matrix

Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

visit

Your buyers or suppliers are concentrated in the Americas project cargo market and you want direct access to a broad cross-section of carriers, EPCs, and shippers

Best for

EPCs, project owners, ports/terminals, forwarders and service providers who want to benchmark project cargo and breakbulk suppliers across the Americas market in a focused two-day format

Min. budget

$1,200.00

Timeline

4-8 weeks for flights, hotel booking, and setting up meetings

Risks

Detailed 2026 agenda and exhibitor placements can keep shifting closer to the show

Late-September Houston heat, humidity, and periodic storms can affect travel and comfort

Downtown hotel rooms near GRB can sell out during a major show

exhibit

You want physical presence in front of the show's core buyer base (EPCs, shippers, ports) and have enough lead time to secure a stand, freight, and staffing

Best for

Breakbulk/project cargo carriers, ports, forwarders, heavy-lift/rigging firms, and logistics technology vendors seeking direct access to EPCs and project owners

Min. budget

$15,000.00

Timeline

3+ months for stand contract, freight, staffing, and travel arrangements

Risks

Official exhibitor pricing is not published on the organiser site and must be requested directly

Freight and customs lead times can be tight, especially for international exhibitors

Prime booth locations can sell out well ahead of the show

skip

Your business has little Americas project cargo exposure, or your budget and timeline don't allow for a well-prepared visit or stand

Best for

Companies with little Americas project cargo exposure, minimal budget or timeline runway, or whose buyers/suppliers are better served by sister Breakbulk shows (Europe, Asia, Middle East)

Timeline

Not applicable for this edition

Risks

Missing networking and deal-making concentrated in the Americas project cargo market

Competitors may gain visibility with your target accounts in your absence

Book with

Partners

Global Event Partner programme

sponsorship

The Global Event Partner programme provides high-visibility sponsorship and exhibiting benefits across multiple Breakbulk shows, including Americas.

Visit partner Confidence: confirmed

Listed on the Breakbulk Americas official partner list and Global Event Partner Program page.

Breakbulk Support contact

operations

Exhibitor and attendee queries are directed to Breakbulk Support via the official Contact Us page and Exhibitor Manual.

Visit partner Confidence: confirmed

Breakbulk Americas Contact Us page.

DHL Industrial Projects

Super Global Event Partner