The Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville, often called MATS, is North America’s largest annual heavy-duty trucking industry event. It is a pivotal gathering that brings together trucking professionals, fleet owners, manufacturers, suppliers, and enthusiasts under one roof. From cutting-edge trucks and advanced logistics solutions to aftermarket products and networking opportunities, this iconic show is a must-attend for anyone connected to the trucking industry.
Venue and location details
The Mid-America Trucking Show takes place at the Kentucky Exposition Center, conveniently located at 937 Phillips Lane, Louisville, Kentucky. This premier venue offers over 1.2 million square feet of indoor space and acres of outdoor display areas, allowing exhibitors to showcase everything from massive trucks and trailers to state-of-the-art technology and accessories.
Louisville’s central location makes it easily accessible for attendees traveling from across the United States and beyond. The Kentucky Exposition Center is just minutes away from the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, making travel logistics straightforward for both domestic and international visitors.
Dates and timings
The Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville traditionally takes place in late March every year. For the upcoming edition, the event is scheduled for March 27–29, 2025. Doors generally open at 10 AM and close around 6 PM on the first two days, with slightly shorter hours on the final day. It’s always best to check the official schedule for the exact timings closer to the date to plan your visit efficiently.
Exhibitor categories and product showcase
One of the major highlights of the Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville is its vast and diverse product showcase. More than 1,000 exhibitors participate, presenting a comprehensive range of products and services, including:
- Class 8 trucks, light and medium-duty vehicles
- Trucking accessories and parts
- Tires and wheels
- Engines, transmissions, and drivetrains
- Telematics and fleet management solutions
- Safety and compliance products
- Trailer and cargo solutions
- Fuel efficiency and sustainability technologies
This extensive product display provides attendees with a first-hand look at the industry’s latest innovations and trends.
Visitor count and demographics
The Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville welcomes over 70,000 trucking professionals each year. The audience includes owner-operators, fleet executives, drivers, suppliers, distributors, maintenance professionals, and logistics managers. This unique mix of industry stakeholders makes MATS an invaluable networking hub for building connections, discovering new business opportunities, and exchanging insights.
Nearby hotels and accommodation
When attending the Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville, finding convenient accommodation is key. Fortunately, Louisville offers a range of nearby hotels to suit all budgets and preferences. Popular choices close to the Kentucky Exposition Center include:
- Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Center
- Hilton Garden Inn Louisville Airport
- Courtyard by Marriott Louisville Airport
- Holiday Inn Louisville Airport – Fair/Expo
- Four Points by Sheraton Louisville Airport
Booking your stay well in advance is strongly recommended, as hotels tend to fill up quickly due to the high influx of attendees during the event.
Benefits of attending the Mid-America Trucking Show
There are countless reasons why industry professionals make the Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville a priority every year:
Unparalleled networking
Connect with thousands of industry peers, experts, and decision-makers. Whether you are an owner-operator looking for new suppliers or a fleet manager exploring cutting-edge technology, MATS provides the perfect platform.
Exclusive product launches
Leading manufacturers often choose MATS to unveil new trucks, trailers, and technologies. This gives attendees early access to game-changing solutions that can enhance operations and profitability.
Educational opportunities
The show regularly features informative seminars, workshops, and live demos covering everything from regulatory updates to operational best practices. This is a valuable chance to gain insights that can help you stay competitive in an evolving industry.
Hands-on experience
Unlike many trade shows, the Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville offers opportunities to get up close with equipment and products. Visitors can climb into truck cabs, test components, and see the latest innovations in action.
Entertainment and community
MATS isn’t just about business. It’s also a celebration of trucking culture with live music, celebrity appearances, and special events like the PKY Truck Beauty Championship, which showcases stunning custom rigs.
Cost and registration
Attending the Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville is a cost-effective investment for industry professionals. General admission tickets are reasonably priced, and in many cases, pre-registration online can grant free or discounted entry. Group discounts may be available for fleets bringing multiple team members.
Exhibitors benefit from a range of customizable booth packages, with early booking discounts often available. It’s advisable for exhibitors to secure their spots as soon as possible, given the high demand for prime booth locations.
Getting to the venue
The Kentucky Exposition Center is located right next to the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, making it convenient for out-of-town visitors. For local attendees or those driving in, the venue provides ample parking. Ride-share services, taxis, and shuttle buses also operate frequently between major hotels and the exposition center.
Tips for making the most of MATS
- Register in advance to secure early bird rates and receive important updates.
- Download the official show app for floor plans, seminar schedules, and exhibitor lists.
- Wear comfortable shoes — with over a million square feet to cover, you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring plenty of business cards to share with new contacts.
- Don’t miss the after-hours events and entertainment to experience the full spirit of the trucking community.
Local attractions in Louisville
While in Louisville for the Mid-America Trucking Show, why not take some time to explore the city? Louisville is famous for its Southern charm and vibrant attractions. Consider visiting:
- Louisville Mega Cavern
- Muhammad Ali Center
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Fourth Street Live! Entertainment District
These local sights offer a great way to unwind and enjoy the city’s culture after a productive day at the show.
Where to book tickets
Ready to be part of the biggest trucking event of the year? Don’t miss your chance to attend the Mid-America Trucking Show – Louisville and connect with the heartbeat of the industry. To learn more about exhibiting, registration, travel info, and ticket booking, visit the official website: www.truckingshow.com