I travel to the US frequently on business, but this is the first time I am attending a trade show where I have a booth. So I"m stuck taking some samples in my suitcases. Wanted to know what's involved in doing so? Do I have to simply pay duties on the goods? Do I need a special Visa to go to the US if I'm going as an exhibitor?

Have never done this myself, but I've heard that if you can prove they are samples you'll be OK (won't have to pay duty). The suppliers I deal with have all spent plenty a time in secondary though so plan ahead.

Sometimes it's easier to FedEx stuff to yourself at the hotel. But then you have to have a Plan B if (when) shipping gets screwed up.

This can really really turn things into a headache for you... If at all possible I would ship everything via UPS or FedEx (even brochures) - That way you're only presenting yourself at customs.

Last time I travelled to the USA to a trade show the questions went something like this:

US Officer: Do you have any materials to exhibit?
Me: No
Officer: No samples?
Me: No
Officer: Not even brochures?
Me: No, everything was FedExed ahead and is meeting me at the show.
Officer: Good. That's how it's supposed to be done. Have a good trip.

I realize I broke a cardinal rule in interacting with customs by providing more information than what was specifically requested (I should have just said "no") but it seemed to speed up the process...

While I agree and try not to volunteer too much I'm always concerned answering with only a curt 'yes' or 'no' and nothing else risks annoying a surly customs officer having a bad day who could say you weren't being entirely forthcoming or cooperative.

I agree, but generally I've also run the opposite where a surly officer says "Just answer the question" - So generally that's all I do.