The Great American Trucking Show, September 10-12 at the Dallas Convention Center, has grown to become one of our industry's biggest events. Last year's attendance was just shy of 40,000. This year's expectation is significantly higher and the show floor has expanded by an additional 113,000 square feet, for a total of 500,000 square feet.
What to See
The 450 exhibitors range in size from small, start-up companies through most of the component supplier community to the major truck manufacturers. Freightliner, International and Kenworth have scheduled major new product announcements. While the major manufacturers get the bulk of attendees' attention, smart truckers walk the aisles looking for new and innovative products to make trucking more efficient, economical or convenient.
Where to Park It
There will be 20 acres of free parking for bobtails and combinations, compliments of Truckstop.Net, Intel and Sprint. Truck parking is in the Reunion Arena lot adjacent to the Convention Center. A map and directions are available online at www.gatsonline.com. Parking will have 24-hour security, access to restrooms, and perhaps some surprise entertainment.
What to Hear
September 10, Mobil Delvac will sponsor country group Diamond Rio. Tickets will be available at the show starting at 10 a.m. They are free to registered attendees, but seating is limited. On September 11, Volvo will sponsor singer Ronnie Milsap, with ticket distribution at 10 a.m.
Get Some Ideas
Once again, some of the nation's finest rigs will compete for trophies in the annual Pride & Polish truck beauty show. Also in the Pride & Polish area, Freightliner will sponsor the second annual Big Rig Redo. During the week of the show, Dallas-area design students will customize sleeper cab interiors to provide personalized living that reflects the owners' tastes and desires.
Giveaways Galore
One lucky trucker will win $1,000 from radio station WBAP. Enter at their booth in the lobby. One pair of Bridgestone or Firestone steer tires will be given away each day of the show. Register separately for each day's drawing at booth 1246.
Learn Something
The Texas Motor Truck Association will sponsor a series of free, one-hour seminars and educational programs throughout the show. Topics will include fuel purchasing, taxes and dealing with the IRS, Hours of Service, getting started as an owner operator, Preventive Maintenance For Tires, and more. Programs will be repeated throughout the show.
