My first visit to the China CNC Machine Tool Fair? A mess.

I had a list. I had questions. Still, I left overwhelmed — missed booths, missed chances.

That’s what the China CNC Machine Tool Fair can feel like — exciting but confusing.

I’ve spent the last few years writing about CNC machines, working with brands, dealers, and small shops. I’ve walked those aisles many times. I’ve learned who to trust, what to ask, and how to prepare.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to plan your visit the right way. You’ll get tips on comparing machines, spotting trends, and finding suppliers that match your needs.

By the end, you’ll be ready to turn your visit into a real advantage.

So let’s get started!

1. Pre-Event Planning

I still remember the first time I planned a visit to the China CNC Machine Tool Fair. I felt excited but a little lost. With so many halls and booths, I didn’t know where to start. I wanted to ask smart questions, but I didn’t even know which booth had the machines I needed. If you’ve felt this way before, you’re not alone.

This year’s event — CIMT 2025 — will take place at the New China International Exhibition Center (NCIEC) in Beijing, China. The show runs from April 21 to April 26, 2025, and doors are open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

CCMT (China CNC Machine Tool Fair) is one of the biggest trade shows in the CNC industry. Held every 2 years, it brings together top machine makers, control system developers, automation suppliers, and service providers from across China and the world.

You’ll see:

• CNC routers
• Milling and turning machines
• Laser cutters
• EDM and grinding systems
• Control software and servo systems

It’s the perfect place to compare machines, explore technology updates, and talk directly to the people behind the products.

How to Register

There are 2 ways to register — as a visitor or as an exhibitor.

• Visitors can pre-register online and get a QR code or badge for entry.
• Exhibitors need to apply in advance and submit booth plans and company info.

To sign up, head to the official CCMT 2025 website. It has a full guide for both visitors and exhibitors. The English version is available, and registration only takes a few minutes.

Register early. It saves time and helps you access booth maps, event updates, and more.

Who Should Attend?

• Machine dealers
• Repair technicians
• Spare parts sellers
• Rental companies
• Terminal users in furniture, mold, signage, and decoration

You’ll see what’s new, compare specs, and talk directly to suppliers.

What to Bring

My first year, I showed up with just a notebook and ran out of business cards halfway through Day 1. I’ve learned to prepare better.

Here’s what you should bring:

• At least 100 business cards
• Printed product specs or machine requirements
• A clear list of questions for suppliers

Ask yourself: What do I want to find? What problems do I need to solve? Which suppliers do I want to meet?

Planning ahead makes every minute at the fair more useful. You’ll walk in ready — and walk out with real business leads.

2. Practical Travel and Logistics Tips

Last year, I watched a repair technician dig through his bag looking for a charger. His phone died halfway through the show — he missed two supplier calls. That moment stuck with me. At big events like this, a little planning saves you a lot of stress.

Let’s walk through what you’ll need for a smooth visit to CCMT 2025 in Shanghai.

Travel Tips for Visitors

If you’re flying in from another country, start your visa application early. About 6 to 8 weeks ahead is ideal. You’ll likely need:

• A business or trade invitation letter
• Hotel and flight confirmations
• A valid passport

Airport options:

• Pudong International Airport (PVG): Best for international arrivals
• Hongqiao Airport (SHA): Mostly for domestic flights

Pudong is closer to the venue.

Where to Stay

The event takes place at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) in Pudong. This area is cleaner, quieter, and more business-focused — ideal if you want to stay close to the show.

Good hotels nearby include:

• Kerry Hotel Pudong (high-end, right next to SNIEC)
• Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel (business-class)
• Jinjiang Inn or Hanting Hotel (budget options)

You can find these on trusted booking sites:

• Booking.com
• Trip.com
• Agoda
• Expedia

If you choose Puxi, you’ll get more restaurants and nightlife, but the ride to the venue will be longer — expect 30–40 minutes by car or train.

Getting to the Fair

• Take Metro Line 7
• Get off at Huamu Road Station
• Follow the signs straight to SNIEC

You can also use Didi, China’s rideshare app, or ask your hotel if they offer a shuttle.

📍 View SNIEC on Google Maps

What to Pack

Pack smart:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Power bank for your phone
• Reusable bag for samples, brochures, and catalogs
• Water bottles, venues get dry
• Printed floor map and event schedule

These simple items make a big difference. You’ll be more focused, less tired, and ready to make the most of every meeting.

3. Making the Most of Your Expo Visit

One thing I’ve learned from walking trade shows — if you don’t plan your visit, the fair will plan it for you. I once spent hours in the wrong hall, only missing the one machine I came to see. That won’t happen to you if you go in with a clear plan.

Plan Your Booth Visits

• Product type: routers, lathes, lasers
• Business interest: new suppliers, tech upgrades, pricing research

I like to mark 3 to 5 booths per hall. That way, I stay focused and don’t waste time walking in circles.

What to Look for in Machines

• Rigidity: does the machine feel stable and solid?
• Spindle power: higher power often means better performance
• Controller brand: make sure it’s something familiar or easy to learn
• Software used: check if it’s user-friendly or needs extra training

Also, look at the demo samples:

• Cutting finish: are the edges clean?
• Detail quality: curves and corners tell a lot

Take Notes and Photos

• Photos: take clear shots (but always ask for permission first)
• Notes: record model numbers, key specs, and pricing
• Contacts: write down who you spoke to and how to reach them

4. Key Networking Strategies at the Fair

Some of the best deals I’ve seen didn’t happen at a booth. They started over coffee, during a workshop, or while standing in line for lunch. That’s the thing about trade shows like CCMT — it’s not just about machines. It’s about people.

If you plan it right, a few smart conversations can lead to long-term business.

Before the Event

Good networking starts before you even get to the fair.

Start by writing a short business introduction. Think of it like a pitch, but natural. Just a few sentences. Say who you are, what your company does, and what you’re looking for at the show.

Then, make a list of people or brands you want to meet:

• Top machine manufacturers
• Spare parts suppliers
• Software providers
• Dealers or agents in your target region

If possible, reach out ahead of time. Some companies list contact emails or WeChat IDs on the exhibitor list. Send a quick message to introduce yourself and ask if they have time to meet during the show. It saves time and shows you’re serious.

During the Fair

At the fair, time moves fast — and booths get busy. Be ready with questions that matter to your business.

Ask things like:

• MOQ: What’s the minimum order quantity?
• Lead time: How soon can you deliver?
• After-sales support: Do you offer local service? Who handles training?

Also, explain what your role is:

• Are you buying it for your own factory?
• Are you a distributor or service technician?
• Do you need technical info or pricing info?

Being clear helps them give better answers.

Also, don’t just collect brochures. Build the connection. Shake hands. Ask for their card. Let them know you’re serious.

After the Event

Many people leave a trade show with a full bag — and an empty inbox. Don’t be one of them.

Follow up within 3 to 5 days after the show. Keep it short but personal:

• Mention what you talked about
• Include a photo or a note from your meeting
• Ask for the next step (pricing, samples, catalog, etc.)

It keeps the conversation going — and helps them remember you.

Sample Follow-Up Email

Subject: Good to meet you at CCMT — [Your Name / Company Name]

Dear [Contact Name],

Thank you for your time at CCMT in Shanghai. I appreciated learning more about your [machine/product name].

As we discussed, I’m interested in [brief summary of your need — e.g., “a 4×8 CNC router with vacuum table”].

I’ve attached a photo and some notes from our meeting. Please let me know about next steps — including pricing and availability.

Looking forward to your reply.

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Company Name] [Phone / Email]

Networking doesn’t have to feel formal. Just be clear, respectful, and follow up quickly. That one conversation might open the door to your next best machine supplier.

5. Opportunities for Dealers, Repairers, and Hobbyists

Every year at CCMT, I run into people from all corners of the CNC world. One person is there to stock machines. Another is chasing a new supplier. Someone else is asking about broken spindle parts. This fair isn’t just for buyers — it’s for anyone connected to machines.

No matter what role you play, CCMT has something for you.

For Machine Dealers

As a dealer, your job is to bring the right machines to your customers. CCMT helps you do that better.

Here’s what to focus on:

• Compare machine lines: See full ranges side by side — entry-level to industrial-grade. It’s easier to judge pricing and specs when you can see everything in person.
• Talk about dealership offers: Some manufacturers are looking for regional dealers. Ask if they offer exclusivity, marketing help, or stock support.
• Evaluate support: Good after-sales service makes your life easier. Ask about warranty terms, tech help, and lead times for delivery.

Use this time to meet decision-makers face-to-face. It makes follow-up deals faster and smoother.

For Repairers

If you fix machines, CCMT is a goldmine of information.

Here’s what to ask:

• Talk with tech teams: Find booth staff who work in service or engineering. Ask about wiring, lubrication, and software errors.
• Ask for repair manuals: Some machines come with full guides. Others don’t — and that matters when you’re working in the field.
• Parts availability: Ask where replacement parts ship from and how quickly you can get them. Local warehousing makes a big difference.

Sometimes just one solid chat with an engineer can help you solve common issues faster back home.

For Spare Parts Sellers

You know your inventory — now find out what matches.

At the fair, focus on:

• Machine compatibility: Ask which parts are used across multiple models. Look for standard sizes and shared brands (spindles, motors, controllers).
• Supplier partnerships: Some booths may be open to letting you stock or resell their parts. Ask about MOQs and price tiers.
• Market demand: Watch what buyers are paying attention to. Are more people asking about tool changers? Servo drives? That tells you where demand is heading.

You might walk away with a new product line or supplier agreement.

For Rental Companies

Machines for rental need to survive daily wear and tear — and be simple for new users.

Here’s what to check:

• Durability: Look at the machine frame, enclosure, and moving parts. Ask how often key parts need replacing.
• Ease of maintenance: Is the design open? Can users access filters, belts, or electronics easily?
• Warranty and support: Ask what’s covered under warranty and how fast service can respond to breakdowns. Some brands offer training for your techs, too.

Choose machines that balance performance and simplicity. That’s key for rental fleets.

For Terminal Users

Whether you’re in furniture, mold design, signmaking, or crafts, CCMT lets you see how machines perform in real use.

Watch carefully during demos:

• Application fit: Does the machine cut your type of material? MDF? Acrylic? Aluminum?
• Ease of use: Can someone new run it after basic training? Are the software controls clear and simple?
• Finish quality: Look at the sample pieces — edges, curves, engraving. That tells you more than any flyer.

You can even ask if they’ll test your material on the spot. Many suppliers are happy to run a sample.

6. Post-Event Follow-Up

The fair is done. Your phone is full of photos. Your backpack is stuffed with catalogs, brochures, and business cards. You’ve had great conversations — now it’s time to do something with them.

Don’t wait too long.

Within 3 to 5 days, start following up while everything is still fresh. This step can turn new contacts into real business.

Organize Your Leads and Business Cards

Start by going through all the contacts you collected.

Use a spreadsheet or a CRM tool like Excel, Google Sheets, or HubSpot. Enter basic info:

• Company name: who are they
• Contact person: who you spoke to
• Product interest: what machine or part caught your eye
• Next step: pricing, sample request, or meeting follow-up

Then, tag or group each contact based on urgency:

• Hot leads: ready to talk deals or send quotes
• Warm leads: interested, but need more details
• Cold leads: casual chat, might be useful later

This helps you focus your time where it matters most.

Compare Machines and Offers

Now’s the time to sit down and compare everything you saw.

Look at:

• Pricing: Who fits your budget? Were there hidden costs?
• Machine features: Check for things like table size, spindle speed, or control system
• Support and service: Who offered training, fast shipping, or local technicians?

Use your notes, flyers, and the machine evaluation checklist to score each option. You’ll quickly see which ones are worth moving forward with.

Reconnect with Suppliers

Don’t wait for them to follow up — take the first step.

Send a short message or email:

• Thank them for their time
• Ask for updates like revised quotes, catalogs, or manuals
• Confirm key details like shipping times or after-sales support

This shows you’re serious and keeps you on their radar.

Share Event Learnings with Your Team

Even if you go alone, your whole team can benefit.

Schedule a short team meeting:

• Show photos of machines and booths
• Share key takeaways from demos and supplier chats
• Talk about pricing and new options you found
• Discuss what solutions might help your current jobs or customers

This helps others understand your choices — and gives them a chance to offer feedback.

7. Bonus Tips for Maximizing Your Visit

You’ve made the trip, planned your route, and packed your notebook. But sometimes, it’s the small extra steps that make the biggest difference.

Here are some bonus tips to help you get even more value from your time at CCMT.

Attend Live Demos and Tech Sessions

Walking past a booth might give you a quick look. But sitting through a live demo? That’s where you really learn.

• Watch the machines in action: Listen to how they run, watch how clean the cuts are, and ask what material they’re using.
• Join forums or technical sessions: These are usually short talks or workshops. You’ll hear about new trends, better tools, or smarter ways to set up your shop.

Even just one session can give you ideas to try back home.

Bring Samples or Drawings

This is a big one — and most people forget to do it.

If you’re serious about finding the right machine, bring:

• Material samples: MDF, acrylic, aluminum, whatever you usually work with
• Drawings or photos: Parts you make, signs you cut, molds you produce

Some suppliers might even run a quick test cut for you. That gives you a much better idea than just reading a brochure.

Ask About Show-Only Deals

Trade shows are a great time to save money — if you ask.

When you find a product you like, don’t be shy:

• Is there a discount for CCMT visitors?
• Are there extra gifts or free add-ons?
• Do you have a first-time customer deal?

You might get a better price, free training, or a longer warranty.

Visit Training and Software Booths

Even if you’re not shopping for software, stop by these booths.

You can:

• Learn shortcuts to run machines faster
• See software updates you didn’t know about
• Ask questions about G-code, nesting, or design

It’s a great way to build skills while you browse.

Conclusion

I started with my messy first visit to the fair — lost time, missed booths, and too many unanswered questions. Things changed once I started planning better.

Now, you have that same plan in your hands.

You know where, when, and how. You’ve got booth tips, travel advice, machine checklists, and networking strategies. It’s all here to help you move with confidence.

Your next supplier, your next smart investment — it’s waiting at CCMT.

Need help getting started?

Contact us today — we’re here to guide you.