The SEMA Show is the biggest event of the year for the automotive aftermarket, a week packed with innovation, networking, and industry inspiration at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned pro, planning ahead can make all the difference.
Here’s how to make your SEMA experience smooth, stress-free, and affordable with discounts from Total Truck Centers.
1. Start With the Basics: Know Your Dates and Goals
Before you start booking, lock in your SEMA dates and travel plans. This year, the show takes place Tue, Nov 4, 2025 – Fri, Nov 7, 2025, and Las Vegas fills up fast.
Ask yourself what you want to get out of SEMA:
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Are you there to meet suppliers and manufacturers?
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Discover new products or trends?
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Attend educational sessions or network with industry peers?
Defining your goals early will help you plan your schedule, select the right accommodations, and maximize your time at the show.
2. Book Your Hotel Early and Save With Corporate Rates
Hotel prices in Las Vegas surge as SEMA approaches, so book now. The good news? Total Truck Centers members can access exclusive corporate hotel rates through Engine, which will help you save big.
Here’s how:
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Log in to your Total Truck Centers account
- Search for Hotel Discounts/Engine in the toolbar
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Add your account/login
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Choose from partner hotels near the Las Vegas Convention Center
Many of these hotels offer additional perks, such as complimentary breakfast, airport shuttles, or waived fees. Staying close to the convention center also means more time at the show — and less time commuting in traffic.
Pro tip: If you prefer quieter nights, consider staying a bit off the Strip. You’ll often find better rates while still being just a short drive from the action.
3. Plan Your Transportation: Car Rental Discounts
Getting around Las Vegas during SEMA can be hectic, so having reliable transportation is a must. Total Truck Centers members can enjoy exclusive discounts with top car rental brands, Hertz and Enterprise/National:
To access these discounts:
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Log in to your Total Truck Centers account
- Search for Rental Car Discounts in the toolbar
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Use the provided corporate codes when booking your rental car.
Booking through Total Truck centers not only saves money but also gives you access to a wider vehicle selection, flexible pickup options, and insurance discounts.
Note: These discounts can only be applied through online bookings and not at counter sales. Be sure to book your rental ahead of time to receive your discounted rates.
Pro tip: Join the car rental company’s loyalty program to skip the counter and get on the road faster.
4. Make the Most of Your SEMA Experience
Once you’ve booked your travel, start planning your show strategy.
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Download the official SEMA app to access maps, exhibitor lists, and schedules on the go.
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Set meetings ahead of time with key suppliers, brands, and partners.
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Wear comfortable shoes, you’ll be walking miles of the show floor each day!
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Bring plenty of business cards and keep notes about the people you meet for easy follow-ups later.
A little prep goes a long way in turning your SEMA visit into a productive (and fun) week.
5. Extra Tips and Tricks from the Total Truck Centers Team
We’ve been to SEMA every year for the past 15 years, so we know a thing or two. Here’s what we’ve learned:
- Don’t make plans to hop back and forth between exhibit halls (the North Hall to the West Hall exceeds 30 minutes). Map out the exhibitors you want to see and work them geographically by hall. Check out the SEMA floorplan before you get to the show.
- Make a plan for transportation from your hotel to the show. Traffic near the convention center is terrible, especially at show opening and closing times. Parking is not convenient. Ride share is available, but you’ll still have to deal with traffic. The monorail is very convenient, but expect full cars and waits if you ride near show opening and closing times.
- Attendee badges do not grant you access to the halls until the show opening, but there is a lot to see outside and in the common areas before the show opens. Arriving early bypasses the worst traffic issues and allows you time to explore.
Plan Smarter. Save More. Travel With Us.
SEMA only happens once a year; make the most of it! By booking early and using Total Truck Center’s exclusive corporate discounts, you can save money, simplify your planning, and focus on what really matters: growing your business and connecting with the best in the industry.
