HDAW 2027 unites 2,900+ heavy-duty aftermarket distributors and suppliers in Grapevine, Texas, 18–21 January for expo, 1:1 meetings and executive insight.
Dates
18–21 Jan 2027
City / country
Grapevine, United States
Venue
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
Companies exhibiting at Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week HDAW 2027 include 1-800 Radiator, 4 State Trucks, Inc., A-LINE AIR DISC, Absolute Parts, LLC and ACC Heavy Duty.
Event overview
HDAW 2027 brings North America's heavy-duty aftermarket to the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas, from 18 to 21 January 2027. The final Texas edition combines a sold-out-scale Product Expo, pre-scheduled one-to-one distributor-supplier meetings and executive education on data, AI, right-to-repair, supply chains and workforce pressure.
Organisers expect more than 2,900 distributors, suppliers and decision-makers, with 300+ exhibitors showing parts, diagnostics, electronics, braking, drivetrain and service equipment. Registration is required, the conference is private and trade-only, and fees include the welcome receptions, keynotes, breakfasts, lunches and business meetings.
Buyers leave with supplier commitments and a clearer read on the year ahead.
TL;DR
Distributors and fleet buyers can compare hundreds of suppliers in one hall, hold pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings and test products against real service and uptime demands. The education programme tackles AI, data, right-to-repair, tariffs and technician shortages, while receptions put decision-makers from across North America in the same room. One trip supports category reviews, supplier negotiations and annual planning.
For suppliers, HDAW is a concentrated route to distributor executives, category managers and independent service operators who control heavy-duty parts assortments. A 10x10 booth includes two full conference registrations and access to pre-scheduled meetings, so teams can combine booth demos with named-account conversations. The final Grapevine edition also gives exhibitors a last chance to meet the Texas and southern Plains buyer base before the show rotates to Kansas City.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
Halls & areas
11501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, TX 76051, United States
Entrances & gates
Longhorn Exhibit Hall entrance
Level 1 convention-center access; follow HDAW signage from the main lobby.
Food options
Gaylord Texan restaurants and convention catering
On-site diningParking: On-site self-parking is available at the Gaylord Texan; use the main resort entrance and follow signs to the convention center garage. Allow 10-15 minutes during morning peaks.
Gate: Convention-center meetings and the Product Expo use the Gaylord Texan exhibit-hall entrances on Level 1; badge checks apply throughout.
Attend
Distributor member - first two registrations
Per person; member rate.
Distributor non-member - first two registrations
Per person.
Exhibiting supplier member - over complimentary allotment
Per person.
Media
Per person.
Ticket info
Badge collection
Bring a government-issued photo ID and your registration confirmation to the HDAW registration desk at the Gaylord Texan. Badges must be worn in the exhibit hall and all official functions.
Ticket notes
HDAW is a private conference, not open to the public. Registration is per person and fees include the welcome receptions, keynote session, breakfasts and networking lunches; supplier badge registration requires a contracted booth.
What's on
How the last edition performed
Last edition
2026
This edition
2027
Visitors: 2,900
Exhibitors: 300
Next edition
2028
HDAW moves to Kansas City in 2028 after completing its Grapevine run in 2027. The host city was announced at the 2027 featured-programme page; exact dates and venue are not yet published.
Venue rotation from Grapevine, Texas, to Kansas City
New this edition
Leaders of Tomorrow speed mentoring
Attendees under 45 can meet 20+ industry veterans in structured speed-mentoring sessions before the Monday welcome reception.
SourceFinal Texas Roundup
A Wednesday evening reception at the Glass Cactus marks the show's last Grapevine edition before the 2028 move to Kansas City.
SourceImpact
HDAW compresses a year of distributor-supplier negotiation into four days. For a parts manufacturer or service-equipment provider, the show offers unmatched access to the people who decide which lines independent distributors stock. The 2027 edition carries extra weight because it is the last in Grapevine: buyers and suppliers can use the week to close 2027 programmes and set terms before the show moves to Kansas City.
Audience quality
The audience is narrow but senior. Distributor owners, category buyers and supplier sales leaders attend to place orders, review ranges and resolve programme terms rather than browse. Pre-scheduled meetings put named buyers in front of exhibitors, and the education programme draws executives who control assortment and pricing. Suppliers outside the heavy-duty channel should expect limited relevance.
Exhibitor outcomes
ROI depends on meeting quality, not aisle traffic. A 10x10 booth includes two full conference registrations and access to pre-scheduled distributor meetings, so the effective cost per qualified conversation falls when the booth is staffed by commercial decision-makers. Suppliers should target 20-40 named accounts, book meetings early and cost the show against a 12-month pipeline rather than week-of orders.
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
The North American heavy-duty aftermarket is consolidating while parts complexity, emissions rules and uptime pressure rise. HDAW puts distributors and suppliers in one venue at the start of the buying year, so product launches, category reviews and annual supplier programmes are settled face to face. The 2027 edition is the last in Grapevine before the show rotates to Kansas City, adding urgency for Texas and southern Plains buyers.
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Distributor consolidation and buying-group scale
Independent distributors are combining into larger groups and leaning on buying organisations to negotiate better pricing, fill rates and data-sharing terms. Suppliers need a clear distributor segmentation strategy and a compelling programme for both large groups and local independents.
What it changes: Scale changes who controls the assortment and how quickly new lines reach the service counter.
AI, data and predictive maintenance
Fleets and distributors are testing predictive maintenance, demand forecasting and AI-assisted diagnostics to reduce downtime and stockouts. The winning suppliers will make product data clean, accessible and useful inside distributor and shop systems.
What it changes: Data quality is becoming part of the product offer, not a back-office detail.
Right-to-repair and parts availability
Right-to-repair rules, diagnostic access and supply-chain resilience remain top policy and commercial concerns. Distributors want suppliers that can document fitment, provide technical support and keep high-wear parts available through disruption.
What it changes: Access and availability decide whether independent shops can complete repairs and retain fleet customers.
HDAW anchors the January buying season. Buyers can pair it with the co-located Heavy Duty Aftermarket Dialogue, then follow the fleet-maintenance and trucking circuit into spring.
Heavy Duty Aftermarket Dialogue (HDAD) 2027
Grapevine, United States
Held in the same Gaylord Texan venue block; dates from the circuit calendar and should be reconfirmed with the organiser.
websiteTMC 2027 Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition
Nashville, United States
Dates and venue from the circuit calendar; confirm the final 2027 programme.
websiteMid-America Trucking Show 2027
Louisville, United States
Dates from the circuit calendar; confirm exhibitor and visitor arrangements.
websiteJanuary buying season
Book Grapevine hotels early; the Gaylord block and nearby limited-service hotels fill during HDAW week.
HDAW dates and venue are sourced from the official event site; circuit dates are planning estimates and should be reconfirmed before booking.
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
Primary gateway; direct trains and rideshare connect to Grapevine.
about 6 miles / 10 km
to venue
15-20 minutes
by car
Convenient for domestic Southwest flights; smaller than DFW.
about 20 miles / 32 km
to venue
30-40 minutes
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 95–150 / night
Limited-service rooms within a short drive of the Gaylord Texan; book early during HDAW week.
USD 170–260 / night
Full-service or all-suite properties with airport shuttles and easy access to the convention center.
USD 280–450 / night
Stay on site at the Gaylord for the shortest walk to sessions, or in downtown Grapevine for restaurants and the wine trail.
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
TEXRail
About 12 minutes; then a short rideshare or shuttle to the Gaylord Texan.
Taxi or rideshare
15-20 minutes depending on traffic; use the designated rideshare pickup zone.
Grapevine visitor shuttle
Seasonal visitor shuttle; confirm HDAW-week route and hours with the hotel concierge.
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B-1 business visitor visa | Travellers who are not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program | — | Weeks to months; apply early | |
| ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program | Eligible citizens of VWP countries | — | Usually minutes to 72 hours |
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents do not need a visa. Canadian citizens generally enter for business without a visa; other nationalities should check current rules.
The United States accepts ATA carnets for many temporary exhibits and professional equipment, but not all goods. Confirm coverage with U.S. Customs and Border Protection before shipping.
Official visa pageWeather
January in Grapevine is cool and changeable: daytime 10-15 C, nights near 2-5 C, with occasional rain, ice or light snow. Bring a warm layer and allow for flight delays in winter weather.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Wi-Fi is available in the Gaylord Texan guest rooms and public areas; convention-center connectivity may require an exhibitor order. U.S. mobile networks use eSIM or physical SIM; roaming charges vary.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Tipping
Restaurant servers expect 18-22% gratuity; bartenders and hotel housekeeping are also tipped. Taxis and rideshares usually offer in-app tipping.
Business pace
Meetings start on time and small talk is brief. Bring a one-page capability sheet and a clear ask; follow up within two business days.
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Book 8-12 weeks ahead for January. DFW is the main gateway; Dallas Love Field serves domestic routes.
Book flightsMost international business visitors need either a B-1 visa or an approved ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Check eligibility before booking.
Estimated cost: ESTA fee varies; B-1 visa fee is set by the U.S. government and is not included here.
Processing: ESTA usually minutes to 72 hours; B-1 visa appointments can take weeks or months.
Carry registration confirmation, hotel booking and a return ticket. Admission is decided by the border officer.
OfficialPartnerGet to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: TEXRail from DFW Terminal B to Grapevine-Main Street, then rideshare or shuttle; taxi/rideshare direct is 15-20 minutes.
Hotel → venue: Most Grapevine hotels are a 5-15 minute drive; use the visitor shuttle where operating or a short rideshare.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft serve DFW and Grapevine. Expect USD 25-45 from the airport and USD 8-15 within Grapevine.
Public transit: TEXRail connects DFW Airport, Grapevine and Fort Worth; local buses are limited.
Parking: On-site self-parking at the Gaylord Texan; confirm the 2027 daily rate. Rideshare is simpler for evening events.
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: January
Temperature: 2-15 C
Seasonality: Cool, occasionally wet or icy; winter fronts can bring strong wind and flight delays.
Packing: Pack layers, a warm coat, comfortable shoes for the exhibit hall and a compact umbrella.
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: Tuesday 19 January 2027
The first full day combines the opening keynote, the Product Expo and the first block of pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings, so buyers can cover the widest range of suppliers before schedules tighten.
Confirm registration and hotel — Check badge details, registration category and cancellation terms.
Build a supplier shortlist — Rank 15-25 exhibitors by category gap, programme terms and meeting potential.
Request one-to-one meetings — Send a one-page brief and two time options to each priority supplier.
Plan travel and floor route — Book DFW transfer, download the floor plan and cluster meetings by hall.
Pack and download documents — Carry photo ID, registration confirmation, business cards and a charged phone.
Registration and breakfast briefing
Gaylord Texan convention foyerPre-scheduled distributor-supplier meetings
Meeting rooms, Level 1Networking lunch and booth visits
Longhorn Exhibit HallProduct Expo and education session
Longhorn Exhibit Hall and session roomsIndustry reception
3rd Floor Foyer or Glass CactusHistoric Downtown Grapevine
Walkable Town Visit
10-15 minutes from the Gaylord
Restaurants, galleries, the Grapevine Vintage Railroad and a compact wine-tasting trail make an easy evening away from the resort.
Fort Worth Stockyards
Half-Day Cultural Trip
35-45 minutes by car
Historic cattle pens, rodeo heritage and Texas food give international visitors a sense of the region beyond the convention center.
Glass Cactus
Live music and lakeside bar
On the Gaylord Texan property; the Wednesday Final Texas Roundup is held here.
Downtown Grapevine wine trail
Evening social
Several tasting rooms within walking distance; book ahead for groups during HDAW week.
HDAW conversations set annual programmes, so speed matters. A generic brochure blast wastes the advantage of a face-to-face meeting; a specific follow-up with owners and dates keeps the deal moving.
Budget
Shell scheme
USD 560–950 / m²
Raw space
USD 451–795 / m²
Standard booth
9 m²
Rates are converted from square feet at 0.092903 sqm per sq ft. Corner premiums are USD 850 linear, USD 1,365 peninsula and USD 2,465 island.
sourceAdjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
booth
exhibit · 9 sqm member
USD 4060 / booth
booth
exhibit · 9 sqm non-member
USD 7160 / booth
hotel
both · mid
USD 170–260 / room-night
per_diem
both · standard
USD 65–95 / person-day
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| booth | exhibit | 9 sqm member | USD 4060 / booth | official | 2026-10-31 |
| booth | exhibit | 9 sqm non-member | USD 7160 / booth | official | 2026-10-31 |
| hotel | both | mid | USD 170–260 / room-night | estimate | 2026-10-31 |
| per_diem | both | standard | USD 65–95 / person-day | estimate | 2026-10-31 |
Decision
Six quick questions will point to the best use of your time at HDAW 2027.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your role in the heavy-duty aftermarket?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You have named category gaps and at least 10 target suppliers.
Best for
Distributors, fleet buyers and service operators who need to compare suppliers and set 2027 category plans.
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
6-8 weeks
Risks
Meeting slots fill before the show
January weather can disrupt travel
exhibit
You can staff the booth commercially and book 20+ target meetings.
Best for
Parts, diagnostics and equipment suppliers selling through North American distributors.
Min. budget
$12,000.00
Timeline
90 days
Risks
Booth and freight deadlines
Crowded distributor meeting schedules
skip
The audience does not buy your category and no named accounts are ready to meet.
Best for
Suppliers outside the heavy-duty channel or teams without a 2027 budget or clear target accounts.
Timeline
Not applicable
Risks
Missing relationship-building if the account list changes
Competitors may secure distributor mindshare
Book with
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
The 2027 host venue on Lake Grapevine, with the Longhorn Exhibit Hall and conference space under one roof.
Official venue resource, not an HDAW sponsor.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
The primary international gateway, about 6 miles from the venue, with TEXRail service to Grapevine.
Public airport resource, not an event partner.
Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau
Local destination guide for hotels, transport, dining and the historic downtown wine trail.
Public destination resource, not an event partner.
Auto Care Association
One of the three owners of HDAW, representing the automotive aftermarket supply chain.
Named as an HDAW owner on the official event page.
Recommended providers
Check B-1 visa and ESTA eligibility before paying for travel.
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
Book the official HDAW room block when released; compare nearby Grapevine properties.
Compare fares into DFW; Dallas Love Field is a domestic alternative.
Confirm the 2027 HDAW exhibitor manual and material-handling deadlines.
Compare trip cancellation and medical cover; exhibitors also need general liability insurance.
Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau
Use the official visitor guide for downtown Grapevine, wine trail and seasonal events.
Confirm the official HDAW badge-scanner provider before buying a separate tool.
FAQs & glossary
Frequently asked
Glossary
Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
8 more alternate names hidden
Trust footer
6
References
1
Publishers
6
Date checked
HDAW
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