Important information for exhibition stand builders

What is Abraxys and what can they do for you?

Abraxys, our partner in safety, reviews and approves stand designs on behalf of RAI Amsterdam and Horecava. In addition, Abraxys actively supervises the build-up, the event itself, and dismantling. To ensure the safety and suitability of all stands, stand designs and the accompanying health and safety documents must be submitted to Abraxys. The deadline for submitting custom-built stand designs for review and approval is 1 November 2026.

Abraxys checks the stand design for compliance with the maximum dimensions as specified in the stand construction guidelines, as well as the aesthetic requirements applicable to the event. It remains the exhibitor’s responsibility to ensure proper construction, correct assembly, and appropriate use of materials, as described in the Accommodation Regulations.

Please first ensure that your stand design meets all requirements for a smooth review process. Then submit the stand design for approval via the Stand Plan Submission Form. All information about Abraxys can be found in the Exhibitor Portal under Stand Construction.

The following documentation is part of the stand submission. A complete submission allows Abraxys to review the plans in time and provide feedback.

  1. A copy of the floor plan and elevation drawings showing dimensions and positions of walls, features, large exhibits, and demonstration areas. Include the height of any platforms or raised floors. Also, specify the materials used for the construction.
  2. A floor plan showing the location (and orientation) of the stand in the exhibition hall.
  3. A Risk Assessment form. You may use your own template or the attached blank form.
  4. A Scale Form. You may use your own template or the attached blank form.
  5. The payment for the Stand Plan Inspection (SPI fee) applies to all space-only stands and can be paid online via the secure Abraxys online shop in euros or British pounds. Links are provided below: (Note: the VAT amount will be deducted when your EU VAT number is included)
  • Early Bird Stand Plan Inspection Fee: € 230.00 / £ 185.00 per stand. (Until November 27th 2026.)
  • Stand Plan Inspection Fee: € 360.00 / £ 300.00 per stand. (From November 28th 2026 up until the first day of construction.)
  • Surcharge for Complex Structure: € 490.00 / £ 400.00 per stand.

Complex Structures

If your stand is deemed complex, then you will be required to submit your own engineers structural calculations report along with your full stand plan submission. A certified structural engineers report will be at your own cost and is in addition to the SPI and complex fees. Once this has been received by Abraxys then your documentation will have a secondary level of review by an independent Structural Engineer who will also be on site to check the build has been completed in line with the engineers report. Abraxys will co-ordinate this secondary level of review. There will be a Complex Fee payment required for this service which will be in addition to the SPI fee payment. Lightweight aluminium modular style banners or a proprietary framework system with fabric/pvc infill only are non-complex. To clarify, these are the banners that are typically shop-bought system rigged banners, pre-manufactured, pre-tested that are easily assembled on site.

However, if any modifications are made to the manufacturers original product, such as a timber framework added, individual lettering/logos added, then your rigged banner will be deemed complex and will be subject to paying the complex fee and engineers checks. If you have stated it is a system banner but changes are found on site, the fees and checks will also be required.

Examples of non-complex banners include keder style, be-matrix, octonorm.

The following elements will mean your stand is deemed complex:

  • Ground based structures over 4m in height.
  • Bespoke timber / metal constructed rigged elements suspended from the venues rigging points.

Standard stand

If you have ordered a standard stand through the exhibition organization, no stand design needs to be submitted.

Important information for exhibition stand builders

During Horecava 2027 we work with the RAI Logistics Management System (LMS). This system allows you to easily reserve a time slot for loading and unloading freight deliveries to and from RAI Amsterdam. Reserve a time slot in advance to ensure optimal traffic flow.

Upon arrival, your booking will be scanned and you will be directed straight to your reserved loading and unloading location.

From approximately three weeks before the construction of Horecava 2027, you can reserve a time slot using the button below.

Cargo handling

Different traffic rules apply during set-up and dismantling. Please carefully review the regulations for each vehicle type, as the procedure differs for each type. During set-up, dismantling, and on all exhibition days, RAI Amsterdam is open from 8:00 a.m.

The traffic regulations are not yet available at this time.

Set-up and dismantling badge

Registration for a set-up and dismantling badge is mandatory to gain access to the halls, including for all stand builders and/or suppliers. Register in advance for a set-up and dismantling badge to avoid waiting times on site.