Media production in Los Angeles and Southern California is growing due to the proliferation of media outlets and streaming sources. Production is also a resource intensive business. For small media companies starting out, affording the equipment needed to create sets – not everything is CGI – can really bite the budget. The decision whether to buy or rent heavy equipment such as forklifts, scissor lifts, and cranes is a serious one. The bottom line is that none of these large pieces of equipment exist in a vacuum, there are expenses associated with storing, transporting, and maintaining them in good working order. For small production companies, heavy equipment and forklift rentals on an as-needed basis might be the answer to a big budget question.
What to Look for in a Rental
Renting your equipment means that it will not be brand-new equipment. It may have seen years of production and heavy use. It may not be shiny and new, but it can get the job done. The rental company should be willing to show you maintenance records for each piece of equipment that you want to rent and may even provide licensed operators for equipment such as forklifts. Make sure that your rental quote includes transporting, loading, unloading, and replacement or on-site repairs if something goes wrong. Most of all, talk with other production pros to hear honest opinions about the rental company and the way they do business.
Get Experience on Your Side
When looking at equipment rentals, you do not want the equivalent of Rent-a-Wreck. Just because it’s cheap, doesn’t mean it has been well maintained or is even safe. Keeping on the right side of workers compensation will ensure that your around and working for years to come. Partner with experienced companies like Select Equipment for heavy equipment and forklift rentals that won’t leave you scrambling with expensive repairs and downtime.
