How to Choose the Right Bleacher for Your Event

Planning an event involves countless decisions, and selecting the right bleacher rental can make or break your budget, timeline, and attendee experience. At Big Ten Rentals, we offer two primary options—Highway Towable Hydraulic Bleachers and Small (Non-towable) Bleachers—each designed to meet different needs.

Here’s a straightforward guide to help you pick the perfect bleacher for your event, focusing on capacity, setup, delivery, and cost.

Step 1: Determine Your Seating Needs

The first question is simple: how many people are you expecting? Our Highway Towable Hydraulic Bleachers seat up to 412 attendees each, making them ideal for large gatherings like sports tournaments, festivals, or community events. If your event is smaller or more localized, our Small (Non-towable) Bleachers might be a better fit, though they’re best suited for areas near Iowa City, IA. Match your headcount to the bleacher capacity to avoid overpaying for unused seats or scrambling for extra space.

Step 2: Consider Setup Time and Effort

Time is money, especially during event setup. Towable bleachers shine here—they unfold hydraulically in 10 minutes or less with just one person pressing a button. This efficiency cuts labor costs and simplifies your schedule, whether you’re hosting indoors or outdoors. Non-towable bleachers, while reliable, take more time and crew to assemble, which can add up if you’re on a tight timeline or budget. Ask yourself: how quickly do you need seating ready?

Step 3: Factor in Delivery Logistics

Where’s your event happening? Our towable bleachers are delivered nationwide across the contiguous U.S., towed by a single person who sets them up with ease. This makes them a go-to for events far from our Iowa base. Non-towable bleachers, however, are limited to a smaller delivery radius (check our delivery map). If you’re outside this zone, towable is the way to go. Consider your location and how much you’re willing to spend on delivery.

Step 4: Weigh the Costs

Budget is king. Towable bleachers often offer a lower cost per seat—typically ranging from $2 to $9 industry-wide—thanks to their high capacity and minimal setup needs. With one-person delivery and setup, you’re saving on labor, too. Non-towable options might work for small, local events, but costs can climb with extra crew and time. For an exact price, request a quote with your event details—city, dates, and attendee numbers—so we can tailor it to you.

Step 5: Think About Your Event Type

Finally, picture your event. Towable bleachers are versatile, handling everything from outdoor concerts to indoor expos, with a sturdy design built for big crowds. Non-towable bleachers are suitable for intimate settings or venues where towing isn’t an option. Match the bleacher to your vibe—big and bold or small and simple.