MarketPlace FAQ's

April 5 – 7,  2027

How do ratings work? How do I choose who I want to meet?

Approximately 3-4 weeks before MarketPlace, Shippers and Carriers will go into their profiles and rate each other. Carriers will also rate Vendors. Shippers and Carriers will give a rating on a 1-5 scale (5 being highest and 1 being lowest). The Higher you rate each other, the more likely you will meet. The lower you rate each other, the less likely you will meet. Carriers, if there is a Vendor you DO NOT want to meet with, you will put a 0. The best way to provide your rankings is by utilizing the matching report in your profile to see who you match closely with. (Keep in mind the matching report is meant as a suggestion, and you will want to do some research on your own)

How long does each interview last?

The interview lasts thirteen minutes, and a bell will chime when it is time to move to your next appointment slot. Keep in mind that if you miss a meeting, you need to check with that company to see if they have another opening so as not to interfere with schedules.

What is a profile? How do I Update?

When you become a member, you are provided with login credentials to a company profile. Here, you will want to update information about your company, such as what services it provides and how long it’s been in business. You will also want to provide information to feed the matching report if you are a Shipper or Carrier. This information is what companies will use to rate you when they meet with you in the Marketplace, so make sure you fill it out completely to put your best foot forward.

You can update your profile anytime by logging back in and selecting edit profile.

How do I log in to my member profile?

To log in, select the member login button at the top of the browser. Fill in your login credentials and select ‘Login.’ If you are unable to remember your login credentials, reach out to eca@expresscarriers.org for assistance. If you merely forgot your password, click on ‘Lost your password’ to reset it. (This email can take 10-15 minutes to appear in your inbox.) If you do not receive the email, contact eca@expresscarriers.org for assistance.

Who has access to my member profile?

Anyone you add to the profile as a member will have login credentials; however, only one member can be tagged as an admin member.

How is MarketPlace different from other Conferences?

This is very much a working conference. Other conferences have set aside agendas for panel meetings, speakers, and exhibit hours. This conference has prescheduled meetings dedicated to your company. Shippers will have very little downtime and will be able to take advantage of the shipper hospitality suite. Carriers and Vendors may have some breaks in their schedules, but we keep you as busy as possible for two full days!

What is the MarketPlace refund policy?

Refund of Attendee or Spouse/Significant Other/Child or Golf registration fees, minus a $100.00 per person administrative fee, will be provided upon receipt of a written notice of cancellation postmarked no later than one month before the start of the MarketPlace. Requests must be mailed to ECA, 3939 Monroe St, Carlsbad, CA 92008. Registrants who fail to attend and do not send written notices of cancellation prior are liable for the full registration fee; no refunds will be given. However, substitutions will be accepted.

Exhibit Booth registration fees, minus a $250.00 administrative fee, will be refunded upon receipt of a written notice of cancellation postmarked no later than five weeks before the MarketPlace. Requests must be mailed to ECA, 3939 Monroe St, Carlsbad, CA 92008, or emailed to eca@expresscarriers.org. Registrants who fail to attend and do not send written notices of cancellation five weeks prior to the MarketPlace are liable for the full registration fee; no refunds will be given unless the booth is resold.

Can I register for MarketPlace after registration closes?

We close MarketPlace registration exactly one month before the first day of MarketPlace. We do this to allow companies to rate companies and for use to create scheduling. We DO NOT allow signup after MarketPlace registration closes. If you want to register as an additional attendee, a spouse, or a plus one for evening events, please contact eca@expresscarriers.org.

What are the levels of sponsorship?

We have many different sponsorship levels and many ways a company can sponsor. You can view sponsorship levels here. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor or items you can sponsor reach out to eca@expresscarriers.org.

Can I take part in interview sessions without having pre-registered?

No, you must be a registered company to participate in meetings.

What is Carrie Elhers scholarship fund? How can I donate?

To honor Carrie’s memory and to continue her dream, in January 2009, the ECA Board of Directors established the “The Carrie Ehlers Scholarship Fund.” Due to Carrie’s commitment to her community, what better place to honor her memory than in the city she loved, Milwaukee, WI. Upon recommendations from ECA President Stuart Hyden, Immediate Past-President, Brad Westrom, and board member and Carrie’s business partner Pam Witt, the board selected the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Inc. to manage the fund, committing the first $10,000 toward the endeavor. Simultaneously, the board approved utilizing a portion of the association’s annual golf tournament (just before the Marketplace) to achieve the minimum vesting amount of $25,000.00.

Donations can be made online here or during the fundraiser's help at MarketPlace.

What are the main events at MarketPlace?

  • ECA Annual MarketPlace Golf event – Benefiting the Carrie Ehlers Scholarship Fund
  • New Member Reception
  • Women’s Networking Event
  • Annual Business Meeting
  • Two Full Day’s of Company Interviews
  • Opening Night Networking Event
  • Second Evening Networking Event
  • Vendor Debriefing
  • Shipper Debriefing

What is the dress code?

Business Attire for Interview Meetings, Cocktail, or Dressy Suggested for Evening Events – Unless themed, all attendees will be notified of the appropriate dress code.

What are the show's best practices for preparing myself?

  • Bring comfortable shoes!
  • Have a lot of business cards ready to hand out.
  • Take notes!!
  • Be truthful in representing your company.
  • Make the most of your time and have that elevator pitch ready.
  • Take advantage of Networking breaks!
  • Use them to network!!
  • Visit vendors if you see an opening, and thank them for supporting the ECA!

Are you ready to join our network of
Carriers, Shippers, and Vendors?

If not, feel free to contact us anytime with questions or concerns.

3939 Monroe St.
Carlsbad, CA 92008


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