The NATDA Trailer Show is NATDA's annual event for trailer dealers, manufacturers, and industry partners, featuring education sessions, certification courses, product exhibits, and networking opportunities. It supports the trailer industry through professional development and business connections.
Dates
1–3 Sep 2026
City / country
Nashville, USA
Venue
Music City Center
Time
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Event overview
The NATDA Trailer Show is the annual trade show and conference organized by the North American Trailer Dealers Association (NATDA) for the light and medium-duty trailer industry.
It brings together trailer dealers, manufacturers, vendors, and industry professionals for education, networking, and product showcases.
The 2026 edition also serves as a platform for the NATDA Trailer Service Professional Certification program, offering hands-on workshops and courses for technicians to advance their skills and credentials.
TL;DR
Attending the NATDA Trailer Show allows visitors to stay updated on the latest trailer products, technologies, and industry trends, while also providing access to professional development opportunities such as the Trailer Service Professional Certification courses, which are essential for advancing skills and maintaining competitive advantage.
Exhibiting at the NATDA Trailer Show provides direct access to a targeted audience of trailer dealers, manufacturers, and industry professionals from across North America, facilitating business development, networking, and brand visibility within the light and medium-duty trailer market.
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
201 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, USA
Three-level covered garage at 701 Demonbreun Street. Rates (effective June 2, 2025): 0–5h $15, 5–9h $20, 9–12h $25, 12–18h $30, overnight $45. No trailer parking. Credit/debit cards only. 12 electric vehicle charging stations (ChargePoint). 29 ADA accessible spots.
1,800 spaces · $20.00/day
Fully ADA-compliant facility. Automated doors at all entrances. Braille instructions on elevators, restrooms, and emergency exits. Wheelchair-accessible meeting rooms, ballrooms, and exhibit halls. Manual wheelchairs available free on a first-come, first-served basis with advance notice (valid photo ID required). Service animals welcome. ADA coordinator contact: (615) 401–1450.
12 electric vehicle charging stations (ChargePoint) in the parking garage, four on each of the three levels. Standard parking rates apply.
No onsite shuttle service is provided by the venue. However, the WeGo bus Route 18 connects the airport to downtown, and various hotel shuttles may be available.
Food options
In-house Cafe, Nearby Restaurants
On-site diningParking: Music City Center offers a three-level covered parking garage with 1,800 spaces, located at 701 Demonbreun Street. Primary access (P3) is at 7th Avenue and Demonbreun Street; auxiliary access (P1 & P2) along 6th Avenue. Rates: 0-5 hours $15, 5-9 hours $20, 9-12 hours $25, 12-18 hours $30, overnight $45. No trailer parking. Electric vehicle charging stations available (12 total).
Attend
Event days & opening times
Advance Dealer Badge (Member)
Free for NATDA dealer members
Advance Dealer Badge (Non-Member)
Per badge, advance/early registration
Onsite Dealer Badge (Non-Member)
Per badge, onsite registration fee
Extended Workshops (90 mins)
Same price for members and non-members
TSP Hands-On Technician Training (Member)
Trailer Service Professional certification program
TSP Hands-On Technician Training (Non-Member)
Trailer Service Professional certification program
TSP Seminar or Technician Viewing (Member)
Trailer Service Professional certification program
TSP Seminar or Technician Viewing (Non-Member)
Trailer Service Professional certification program
Manufacturer/Vendor Badge (Member, non-exhibiting)
Free for first 2 badges, $100 per badge after; must agree to non-solicitation clause
Manufacturer/Vendor Badge (Non-Member, non-exhibiting)
Limit 2 badges per company, must agree to non-solicitation clause
Lost or Reprinted Badge
Per badge replacement fee
Ticket info
Badge collection
Attendees must bring their email confirmation containing a QR code to be scanned at the registration kiosk, plus two forms of ID: a driver's license and a business card associated with the registered dealership. Lost or reprinted badges cost $25 per badge.
Ticket notes
The show is business-to-business only and not open to the public; NATDA welcomes trailer, RV, auto, marine, powersports, heavy equipment, and agricultural machinery dealers. Dealer members register free; non-members pay per-badge fees, and onsite registration carries a higher fee than advance registration. Sessions, workshops, and trainings must be added to a registration even if free, and some carry separate fees.
Build-up & tear-down
What's on
1
NATM Dealer Summit Panel
3
NATM Dealer Summit Session
1
Event days
09:00–16:30
Typical time
Dr. Rick Goodman
Executive Coach
Morning Momentum: How to Build a High Velocity Sales Team
Scott Crimmins
NATM Technical Director @ National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM)
Protecting Your Dealership: Compliance, Tire Recordkeeping and Documentation
Johnathan Bradley
Moderator @ All American Trailer Connection
From Line to Lot: A Dealer-Manufacturer Panel
Morning Momentum: How to Build a High Velocity Sales Team
Beyond the Build: A Dealer's Guide to Trailer Manufacturer Partnerships
Protecting Your Dealership: Compliance, Tire Recordkeeping and Documentation
From Line to Lot: A Dealer-Manufacturer Panel
Thursday, Jul 16, 2026
The Identity Gap The Space Between Who They Say They Are and Who They Really Are
NATM Dealer Summit
How the last edition performed
Current edition
2026 · 3,981 visitors · 300 exhibitors
Visitors
4,000
Exhibitors
330
Growth over time
Edition recap
New this edition
Tow Talk Sessions
Introduced in 2024, these interactive, intimate sessions enabled dealers to share information on a granular level to help in day-to-day operations.
SourceInnovation Showcase
Expanded in 2025 to become the largest ever, featuring breakthrough technologies and forward-thinking solutions.
SourceText-to-Vote Technology
New in 2025, boosted dealer participation and engagement levels in the Innovation Showcase.
SourceExhibitor Awards for Presentation Space Creativity
Introduced in 2023, recognizing best booth designs in categories such as best 10x10 booth, best booth smaller than 1,000 sq ft, best booth larger than 1,000 sq ft, and best new exhibitor.
SourceExpanded Educational Programming
In 2025, attendees had access to 30+ expert-led sessions, including hands-on technician training, with the education program doubling its capacity to meet demand.
SourceTestimonials
You could feel the buzz from the moment the show kicked off. Many of our sessions were standing room only and our opening party was overflowing with more new faces than ever. The energy was unmatched.
This year's show was a powerful reflection of the industry's resilience and growth. NATDA continues to deliver exceptional value to dealers and exhibitors alike, and we're proud to be part of this incredible event.
What an amazing show we had this year, the energy was incredibly positive, the new formats for education were well-received, the show floor was buzzing with excitement, and everyone was ready to do business.
This was a particularly exciting year for us. Not only did we achieve record attendance, but we also saw unprecedented participation in our Dealership Performance Training education program.
Next edition outlook
2026-09-01 – 2026-09-03The 2026 NATDA Trailer Show returns to Music City Center in Nashville, TN, with its exhibit floor already sold out and a new NATM Dealer Summit education track launching in partnership with the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers.
NATM Dealer Summit added as a new free educational track delivered by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers Ultimate Prize Package restructured into $15,000 of cash prizes given away throughout the show instead of one grand prize Exhibit floor for 2026 is sold out, with over 300 exhibitors and six football fields of trailer products expected
Impact
The 2025 NATDA Trailer Show set attendance and exhibitor records, with dealership registrations up 12% year over year to more than 770 dealerships and over 330 exhibitors filling a sold-out exhibit hall plus overflow lobby and outdoor space. The education program doubled its session capacity and the Innovation Showcase was the largest in the event's history, reinforcing the show's role as the trailer industry's key annual gathering.
Audience quality
Attendees are trailer dealership owners, OEM executives, spec managers, purchasing directors, rental fleet planners, and service and maintenance leads representing segments including cargo, utility, RV, powersports, heavy duty, livestock, and fleet trailers. The 2025 edition drew participation growth across nearly all these segments, with 65+ new or returning dealerships attending after a gap of three or more years.
Exhibitor outcomes
NATDA reported vendor space for the 2026 show was nearly 70% sold out shortly after the 2025 event closed, reflecting strong exhibitor demand and satisfaction; the exhibit hall expanded into the lobby and outdoor space in 2025 because exhibitor and attendee demand exceeded the original hall capacity.
Intelligence
291
Exhibitors
24
Categories
7
Countries
7
Pavilions
Top 7 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.
~93% of listed exhibitors are from United States.
United States
Canada
China
India
Mexico
United Kingdom
Australia
High priority
Buyers sourcing
Trailer Dealer Suppliers (profile Pending)
Buyers sourcing
Other Trailer Dealer Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Trailer Manufacturers
Buyers sourcing
Hitch, Towing & Brake Controller Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Trailer Parts Wholesale Distributors
Medium priority
Buyers sourcing
Truck Bed, Topper & Accessory Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Trailer Financing, Credit & F&I Software Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Trailer Brake & Hydraulic Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Title, Registration & DMV Service Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Trailer Axle, Hub & Suspension Suppliers
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
The North American trailer industry is at a pivotal moment of consolidation, capacity expansion, and technological innovation. The NATDA Trailer Show serves as the central hub for dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers to navigate these changes, forge strategic partnerships, and access critical education. With the show floor sold out months in advance and record attendance anticipated, the event's growing significance reflects an industry that is actively investing in its future despite economic headwinds. The NATDA-NATM collaboration and major mergers like Patrick Industries-Lippert signal a move toward greater efficiency and scale, while rising material costs and strong order backlogs underscore the need for dealers to stay informed and agile. The show provides the platform for exactly that—connecting the ecosystem, showcasing innovations, and delivering the training needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving market.
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Consolidation and Strategic Collaborations
The trailer industry is witnessing significant consolidation and collaboration, exemplified by the NATDA-NATM strategic alignment to consolidate events and education, and the announced all-stock merger between Patrick Industries and LCI Industries, creating a premier component supplier.
SourceRising Material Costs and Price Pressures
Preliminary data from Q1 2026 indicates that rising raw material costs, driven by trade policy shifts, are creating long-term headwinds and are projected to increase truck trailer prices.
SourceStrong Demand and Backlog Growth
Despite cost pressures, trailer demand remains robust. Net orders have outpaced builds for four of the first five months of 2026, with May seeing about 4.1k more trailers ordered than built, growing the backlog by more than 5% month-over-month.
SourceExpansion of Manufacturing Capacity
Manufacturers are investing heavily in capacity expansions to meet demand. Air-tow Trailers broke ground on a $6.8 million, 76,000-square-foot addition, and Postle Aluminum is installing new extrusion presses to increase production capacity.
SourceEmphasis on Dealer Education and Training
There is a growing focus on professional development. NATDA has partnered with NCM Associates to provide exclusive service management training, 20 Groups, and scholarships for trailer dealers, while the new NATM Dealer Summit at the NATDA Trailer Show offers comprehensive dealership resources and business improvement strategies.
SourceTechnological Innovation and Product Advancements
Companies are focusing on innovation, with events like Airxcel's New Product Showcase unveiling next-generation RV innovations, and the NATDA Trailer Show featuring an Innovation Showcase with breakthrough technologies.
SourceLatest updates from across the market.
Airxcel Expands Dealer Appoints Mark Krol Senior Director of RV Dealer Accounts
Airxcel expanded its dealer, distributor, and service provider-focused sales team and appointed Mark Krol as Senior Director of RV Dealer Accounts.
Airxcel to Unveil Next Generation of RV Innovation at 2026 New Product Showcase
Airxcel will host its thirteenth annual. New Product Showcase on August 18-19, 2026, in Elkhart, Indiana, offering an invitation-only look at new RV innovations across climate control, appliances, and electrical systems.
NATDA Members Get a Financing Edge: Trailer Solutions FL Keeps Dealers Moving
NATDA dealer members now have access to a new financing resource through a partnership with Trailer Solutions FL, the Association's newest partner.
Air-tow Trailers Breaks Ground on $6.8 Million Manufacturing Expansion
Air-tow Trailers broke ground on a 76,000-square-foot addition to increase production capacity and improve manufacturing efficiency.
Postle Aluminum Increases Extrusion Capacity to Support OEM Expansion and Larger Profile Production
Postle Aluminum will install a 10-inch and 7-inch aluminum extrusion press this summer to increase capacity.
Patrick Industries, Lippert to Combine in All-Stock Merger
Patrick Industries and LCI Industries announced a definitive all-stock merger agreement to combine the two companies into a premier component supplier.
Maxxair Launches RVTI Level 3 Training for Maxxfan and Maxxair Ventilation Systems
Maxxair is reinforcing commitment to the RV service industry by expanding educational opportunities with RVTI Level 3 training.
The Future of How Trailers Are Bought
The trailer buying experience is changing; article discusses what's coming and what stays the same.
Gary Miller to Retire After More than a Decade at AquaHot; Taylor Moats Named Successor
Aqua-Hot Heating Systems announced Gary Miller's retirement and Taylor Moats as new Engineering Manager.
Norstar Announces Freedom 250 Limited-Edition Iron Bull Dump Trailers
Special-edition trailers celebrate America's 250th anniversary while supporting veterans through K9s for Warriors.
Patrick Industries, Lippert to Combine in All-Stock Merger
Patrick Industries and LCI Industries announced a definitive all-stock merger agreement to combine the two companies into a premier component supplier.
Polar King Appoints Andy Hogan as National Sales Manager for Trailer Division
Polar King appointed Andy Hogan as National Sales Manager to accelerate dealer growth and expand trailer sales.
The 2026 NATDA Trailer Show Floor Is Sold Out
The 2026 NATDA Trailer Show, returning to Nashville's Music City Center September 1-3, has officially sold out of exhibition space.
NATDA and NATM Announce Strategic Industry Collaboration Aligning Flagship Events and Education
NATDA and NATM announced a collaboration to strengthen the trailer industry by consolidating events and resources, with NATM delivering a dealer education track at the 2026 NATDA Trailer Show, and cross-event collaboration expanding in 2027.
NATDA and NCM Associates Partner to Expand Training, Peer Learning, & Offer Member Advantages
NATDA announced a partnership with NCM Associates, naming NCM as education partner and exclusive Service Management Training Provider, offering 20 Groups, workshops, and scholarships to members.
The NATDA Trailer Show is the premier North American event for light- and medium-duty trailer dealerships, but it sits within a broader ecosystem of trailer, truck, and commercial vehicle trade shows. Key events range from the NATM Convention (focused on trailer manufacturing) to large-scale international shows like IAA Transportation and CARAVAN SALON. The circuit provides year-round opportunities for networking, education, and product discovery.
NATM Convention & Trade Show
Fort Worth, USA
Provides the trailer industry an opportunity to expand knowledge and skill sets while networking with industry leaders.
websiteWork Truck Week (NTEA)
Indianapolis, USA
Features 500+ exhibitors, OEM updates, and new vehicle technology trends. North America's largest work truck event.
websiteMid-America Trucking Show (MATS)
Louisville, USA
Welcomed 53,507 attendees from 50 states and 55 countries in 2026. Over 850 exhibitors expected.
websiteCARAVAN SALON Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf, Germany
World's leading trade fair for mobile travel. Features hundreds of exhibitors across 15 halls.
websiteNATDA Trailer Show
Nashville, USA
The anchor event for light- and medium-duty trailer dealers. Sold out with 300+ exhibitors and record attendance anticipated.
websiteIAA Transportation
Hanover, Germany
Global meeting place for transport, logistics, and commercial vehicle sectors. Features zero-emission trucks, trailers, components, and digital fleet solutions.
websiteQ1 2026 (Manufacturing & Work Truck Focus)
Early-year events concentrated on manufacturing, work trucks, and heavy-duty trucking, providing a foundation for the year's product and technology trends.
Late Summer / Early Fall 2026 (Dealer & Consumer Focus)
A密集 period of major international and North American events covering RV, trailer dealership, and commercial transport sectors. The NATDA Trailer Show is strategically positioned between CARAVAN SALON and IAA Transportation.
Event dates and details sourced from official event websites and industry publications. NATM dates from natm.com; Work Truck Week from ntea.com; MATS from truckingshow.com; CARAVAN SALON from caravan-salon.com; NATDA from natdatrailershow.com; IAA from iaa-transportation.com.
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Nashville International Airport
Primary airport for the event. Served by all major airlines. Ground transportation options include WeGo bus Route 18 ($2, ~30 min), taxi (~$30 flat rate), rideshare (~$35–$50), and shared shuttles (~$18–$30). No train or metro connection.
10.3 km (6.4 miles)
to venue
15–25 minutes
by car
Huntsville International Airport
Alternative airport in Alabama, approximately 2 hours' drive southwest of Nashville.
167.7 km (104 miles)
to venue
~2 hours
by car
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport
Alternative airport in southeastern Tennessee, approximately 2 hours 15 minutes' drive east of Nashville.
189.6 km (118 miles)
to venue
~2 hours 15 minutes
by car
John C. Tune Airport
General aviation airport, not served by commercial airlines. Suitable for private/charter flights.
~9.7 km (6 miles)
to venue
~15 minutes
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 95–150 / night
Basic, clean accommodations within walking distance or a short drive to the Music City Center. Examples: Comfort Inn Downtown Nashville Music City Center (from ~$95), Reed Motel Nashville. Limited amenities, but good value for price-conscious attendees.
USD 180–260 / night
Comfortable hotels with good amenities and convenient locations. Popular choices include Hilton Nashville Downtown (from ~$238), Hyatt Centric Nashville (from ~$208), Cambria Hotel Nashville Midtown, and Home2 Suites by Hilton Nashville Downtown Convention Center. Often include free breakfast or have on-site dining. Many are within a 5-15 minute walk of the convention center.
USD 270–460 / night
Upscale and luxury hotels offering full-service spas, fine dining, and premium amenities. Located very close to the Music City Center. Examples: Omni Nashville Hotel (connected to the convention center), Renaissance Nashville Hotel, The Hermitage Hotel (5-star), Four Seasons Nashville. Average luxury hotel rates in downtown can be around $460 per night.
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Convenient and widely available. Fares vary based on demand and time of day. A standard ride from the airport to downtown typically costs $35-$50.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the airport with a flat rate of approximately $30 to downtown Nashville. Can be hailed on the street in busy areas.
Public Bus (WeGo Transit)
WeGo Public Transit operates bus routes throughout Nashville. Route 18 connects the airport to downtown, and Route 55 serves the downtown area including stops near the Music City Center. Buses run frequently, with Route 55 running every 10 minutes. A cost-effective option, though travel times are longer.
Hotel Shuttle
Some downtown hotels offer complimentary shuttles to the convention center and nearby areas. Check with your specific hotel for availability and schedules. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nashville Metrocenter Downtown, for example, offers a complimentary Uber to certain locations for IHG members.
Walking
Downtown Nashville is highly walkable. Many hotels, restaurants, and attractions like Broadway, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Bridgestone Arena are within a 5-15 minute walk of the Music City Center. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) | Citizens/nationals of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries (e.g. UK, Japan, South Korea, most EU states, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Chile) holding an e-Passport, traveling for business (including trade shows) or tourism for 90 days or less | $40.00 | Typically minutes to 72 hours; recommended to apply as soon as travel is planned | |
| B-1 Business Visitor Visa | Foreign nationals from countries not in the Visa Waiver Program, or VWP nationals wanting a stay longer than 90 days or without a qualifying e-Passport | $185.00 | Varies by embassy/consulate; often several weeks including interview wait times | |
| Canadian/Bermudian visa exemption | Canadian and Bermudian citizens/nationals | Not yet confirmed | Not applicable |
Citizens of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries (including UK, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and most EU member states) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days for business purposes such as attending the NATDA Trailer Show, provided they obtain ESTA authorization in advance. Canadian and Bermudian nationals are exempt from both visa and ESTA requirements. All other nationalities require a B-1 business visitor visa obtained in advance from a US embassy or consulate.
The USA accepts ATA Carnets as a duty-free, tax-free temporary entry document for goods including commercial samples, professional equipment, and items intended for use at trade shows and exhibitions such as the NATDA Trailer Show. Exhibitors bringing trailers, parts, or demo equipment into the US should present the Carnet to CBP on entry, exit, and re-entry, and again on return to the country of origin.
Official visa pageWeather
September in Nashville offers pleasant early autumn weather. Average high temperatures range from 28°C to 29°C (82°F–84°F) during the day, with overnight lows around 16°C to 18°C (61°F–64°F). Humidity drops compared to summer, averaging around 70%, making conditions comfortable. Expect about 8–9 hours of sunshine per day. Rain is possible on 7–9 days during the month, with average rainfall of about 94 mm (3.7 inches). Pack layers: light, breathable clothing for daytime, plus a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. A small umbrella is advisable for occasional showers.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The Music City Center is located in the heart of downtown Nashville, providing excellent connectivity. Nashville International Airport (BNA) is approximately 10 km east, reachable via I-40. WeGo bus Route 18 connects the airport to downtown Music City Central station. The venue is within walking distance of numerous downtown hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Nearby landmarks include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, and the honky-tonks on Broadway. The downtown area is walkable, with rideshare and taxi services readily available. No direct rail or metro connection exists to the venue.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Southern Hospitality
Nashville is known for its 'Southern hospitality' and 'Nashville nice'—a culture of politeness, warmth, and willingness to help. Expect friendly greetings, and don't be surprised if strangers strike up a conversation. In business settings, kindness and personal warmth are highly valued; locals often take extra time to extend courtesies.
Tipping Etiquette
Standard tipping in Nashville is 15–20% for restaurant service (20% for good service), $1–2 per drink at bars, and $2–5 for hotel staff (bellhops, housekeeping).
Music & Entertainment Etiquette
Live music is everywhere. When enjoying performances in intimate venues, tip musicians, clap between songs appropriately, and ask permission before photographing performers.
Business Attire
The NATDA Trailer Show is a business-to-business event; business casual is standard. For formal meetings, conservative suits are common, but the overall atmosphere is relaxed.
Respectful Communication
Politeness is paramount. Use 'please,' 'thank you,' 'sir,' and 'ma'am' in conversations. Holding doors open for others is a common courtesy.
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Book flights well in advance, especially if traveling during peak seasons or around major Nashville events (e.g., CMA Fest). Mid-week flights (Tuesday–Thursday) may offer better availability and pricing. BNA is served by all major U.S. airlines with direct connections from most major cities.
Most international visitors to the NATDA Trailer Show either qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) if their country is one of the 42 participating nations, or must obtain a B-1 business visitor visa in advance; Canadian and Bermudian citizens are exempt from both.
Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed
Processing: ESTA: minutes to 72 hours; B-1 visa: several weeks depending on embassy interview availability
No NATDA- or Nashville-specific visa provisions were found; entry requirements follow standard US federal immigration rules for business travel, independent of the trade show itself.
OfficialFind a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Areas to stay
Downtown Nashville (SoBro South of Broadway) · The Gulch · Vanderbilt / Midtown · Music Row
Budget
$95 - $150
Mid-Range
$180 - $260
Premium
$270 - $460+
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the primary airport. Options: Rideshare (~$35-50), Taxi ($30 flat rate), WeGo Bus Route 18 ($2-3, ~30 min), or shared shuttles. The drive is approximately 15-25 minutes depending on traffic.
Hotel → venue: Many downtown hotels are within walking distance (5-15 min). Rideshare and taxis are readily available for hotels further out. Some hotels offer complimentary shuttles.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Nashville. Fares from the airport to downtown are typically $35-$50. Surge pricing may apply during peak hours or special events.
Public transit: WeGo Public Transit operates buses throughout the city. Route 55 provides frequent service in the downtown core. Route 18 connects the airport to downtown. Fares are $2-$3 per ride.
Parking: The Music City Center has a 1,800-space parking garage. Rates vary; daily maximum is around $20-$30. Many downtown hotels also offer parking, often at an additional daily fee. Limited street parking is available.
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: September
Temperature: High: 28–29°C (82–84°F) / Low: 16–18°C (61–64°F)
Seasonality: Occasional showers on 7–9 days; average rainfall ~94 mm (3.7 inches). Remnants of tropical systems possible but rare.
Packing: Pack light, breathable clothing for warm days, plus a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. A small umbrella or rain jacket is advisable for possible showers.
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: 2026-09-03
Thursday, September 3, 2026 is the final show day and hosts the Dealer Lounge catered lunch plus the Ultimate Prize Giveaway announcements, concentrating both networking and the show's signature giveaway activity, based on the sponsorship page describing the Dealer Lounge lunch on Thursday, September 3rd.
Register for the show and confirm your dealer/attendee status — Registration is required even for free sessions; dealer members save on badge fees.
Book flights and a hotel room near Music City Center — Multiple downtown hotels (Omni, Renaissance, Westin, JW Marriott, AC Hotel, Residence Inn, Hilton, Hyatt Place) sit within walking distance.
Confirm ESTA authorization or B-1 visa eligibility if traveling internationally — Apply for ESTA early; approval can take up to 72 hours.
Review the exhibitor list and shortlist priority booths and sessions — Use the Find Exhibitors and Sessions tool on the show's Map Your Show planner.
Sign up for the NATM Dealer Summit sessions of interest — New free education track by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers; sessions require advance registration even though free.
Prepare meeting requests and questions for target exhibitors — Especially useful given 300+ exhibitors across a sold-out floor.
Download the show mobile app and confirm the agenda — The mobile app is a sponsored official show tool.
Print or save badge confirmation and required ID — Bring driver's license and business card tied to your dealership for onsite registration.
Arrive at Music City Center and pick up badge at registration counter
Music City Center, 201 Rep. John Lewis Way S, NashvilleAttend a NATM Dealer Summit or Trailer Service Professional certification session
Music City Center education roomsWalk the exhibit floor and visit shortlisted booths
Music City Center exhibit hallLunch break, optionally at the sponsored Dealer Lounge
Music City Center Dealer Lounge or Assembly Food HallContinue exhibit floor visits and scheduled meetings with suppliers
Music City Center exhibit hallAttend closing education session or Innovation Showcase viewing
Music City CenterEvening networking on Broadway Honky Tonk Highway (recommendation, not event-affiliated)
Broadway, Nashville, TNDinner and informal industry mingling
Broadway entertainment district, downtown NashvilleBroadway Honky Tonk Highway
Entertainment District
Iconic Nashville strip of live-music honky tonks including Tootsies Orchid Lounge, ideal for evening networking after show hours.
6 minutes from Music City Center
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Museum
Landmark museum showcasing country music history, a popular stop for out-of-town visitors.
walking distance, downtown Nashville
Frist Art Museum
Art Museum
Rotating art exhibitions in a historic Art Deco former post office building near the convention center.
7 minutes from Music City Center
Bridgestone Arena
Sports/Entertainment Venue
Home of the Nashville Predators NHL team and major concerts, close to the convention center.
walking distance, downtown Nashville
Assembly Food Hall
Food Hall
Large food hall with diverse local vendors, convenient for group meals near the venue.
7 minutes from Music City Center
NATDA Trailer Show Welcome Party
Official Event
Show-hosted welcome party for attendees; sponsorship packages (e.g. Welcome Party MEGA-BAR) confirm this is an official NATDA event.
Dealer Lounge
Official Event
Sponsored on-floor lounge with a catered lunch and Ultimate Prize Giveaway announcements on Thursday, September 3.
Broadway Honky Tonk Highway
Recommendation
Popular downtown Nashville entertainment strip for informal evening networking; not affiliated with NATDA.
Assembly Food Hall
Recommendation
Casual group dining spot near the venue suited for informal meetups; not affiliated with NATDA.
Budget
The provided pages mention sponsorship packages that include complimentary booth spaces and discounts, but do not specify per-square-meter pricing for booth space. Direct exhibitor pricing details are not available on these pages.
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.
hotel_room
both · budget
USD 249 / per night
hotel_room
both · mid
USD 269–294 / per night
hotel_room
both · premium
USD 331–356 / per night
sponsorship_addon
exhibitor · standard
USD 850–16500 / per package
registration_fee_non_member
visitor · standard
USD 50–75 / per badge
hotel_room_tax
both · standard
USD 16.25 / percent per night plus $2.50 fee
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| hotel_room | both | budget | USD 249 / per night | official | 2026-07-31 |
| hotel_room | both | mid | USD 269–294 / per night | official | 2026-07-31 |
| hotel_room | both | premium | USD 331–356 / per night | official | 2026-07-31 |
| sponsorship_addon | exhibitor | standard | USD 850–16500 / per package | official | 2026-07-31 |
| registration_fee_non_member | visitor | standard | USD 50–75 / per badge | official | 2026-07-31 |
| hotel_room_tax | both | standard | USD 16.25 / percent per night plus $2.50 fee | official | 2026-07-31 |
Decision
Answer these questions about your role, budget, timeline, and goals to get a personalized Visit, Exhibit, or Skip recommendation for the 2026 NATDA Trailer Show.
QUESTION 1 OF 8
What best describes your organization?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You are a trailer dealership professional wanting to source products, attend education sessions, or network with 300+ exhibitors on a sold-out show floor
Best for
Trailer dealers, service technicians, and dealership managers seeking new suppliers, product updates, certification (Trailer Service Professional), or the new NATM Dealer Summit education track
Min. budget
$800.00
Timeline
2-4 weeks for domestic travel, 6-8 weeks if visa/ESTA processing is required
Risks
Downtown Nashville hotel rates run $250-$330+ per night during the show
Onsite non-member registration fees are higher than advance registration
exhibit
You sell products or services to trailer dealerships and want direct access to over 770 dealership buyers (2025 data) plus brand visibility through sponsorship packages
Best for
Trailer manufacturers, parts/component suppliers, service equipment vendors, and dealership software/finance providers targeting North American trailer dealers
Min. budget
$10,000.00
Timeline
60-90+ days to secure booth space, sponsorship add-ons, and staff travel; the 2026 exhibit floor is already sold out
Risks
The 2026 exhibit floor is sold out, so late entrants may only get a waitlist spot
Sponsorship extras such as aisle signs, lanyards, and charging stations sell out quickly on a first-come basis
skip
Your product, service, or business goals do not align with trailer dealers, manufacturers, or the light/medium-duty trailer industry
Best for
Businesses or individuals with no connection to trailer dealerships, manufacturing, or related service categories
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
Not applicable
Risks
Opportunity cost of travel and registration spend with no relevant buyer or seller fit
Book with
Recommended providers
HelmsBriscoe / MCI Registration & Housing Services
According to the official NATDA Trailer Show Third Party Vendors page, HelmsBriscoe and MCI Registration & Housing Services are the official housing partners managing hotel blocks. Attendees can contact them for assistance with hotel reservations within the official block. Contact: 800.878.4018 or natdahousing@helmsbriscoe.com.
FAQs & glossary
Glossary
Trust footer
27
References
10
Publishers
0
Date checked
NATDA
Trailer Body Builders
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.
