Film & TV Production Services

Shipping & Logistics for Film and TV

Packair Provides Domestic & International Shipping for Film and TV Productions

Now that there are shows being renewed for another season of broadcast, they have hand-selected Packair to be a part of their “wave of success” for the upcoming year. TV Series have dozens of episodes all playing back to back every week, which demand more time and effort for a rigorous year of scouting, filming, and moving around the globe.

Low operational costs
Optimization Programs
Careful handling of valuable goods
Employers uniform standards
Minimal processing times
What is Included

Premium Film & TV Production Logistics & Freight Services

With the numerous services Packair renders in import and export, Packair is in a prime position to exceed expectations of studios for every single week of filming they require services.

Freight forwarding and logistics services in the airline and ocean line networks are no joke. In airfreight, freight forwarders must maintain strong relationships with partnering carriers, be highly familiar with Homeland Security protocols, and have the knowledge to make sure that governmental guidelines are followed, so that fines and penalties don’t come back and bite you in the tail after the projects are completed.

Packair has this experience and has professionals that can broadcast transit time and any possible issues a shipment might face along the way, assuring that deadlines will be met and these TV Series’ will be filmed on time!

Looking for a Reliable Shipping Service for Your Set / Equipment?

Packair has provided film and TV production logistics services to some of the biggest studios in Hollywood. Get in touch by clicking the button below and get a quote on us!
Actors on film set in trailer with costume rack and camera

Packair handles production logistics and film shipping. We make it easy for you.

The unsung heroes of the film set are the logistics professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and ensure that everything runs smoothly. They arrive first and leave last, ensuring that the show goes on without any transportation or logistics issues. Even though it’s a thankless job, those in the logistics industry are always happy to help.

Packair understands that multiple shipping projects involve complex logistical processes. That’s why we have created a diverse International Logistics Division that offers customized freight solutions tailored to our customers’ specific transportation requirements. We act as a single source of information and coordinate all cargo delivery and carrier requirements to provide a collective solution.

Our Film Logistics Division utilizes our industry network and trusted partnerships to develop a definitive plan and schedule for each shipment phase, ensuring the most efficient process possible. At Packair, we focus on service analysis, tracking, consultation, and adjustment throughout the shipping process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for our clients. Whether your set is in Hollywood, Atlanta, or Hawaii, our film production professionals will be there.

What are Film Production Logistics?

Film production logistics and shipping may be the least glamorous, but they are undoubtedly the most important aspects of the film production process. The logistics involved in film production can include everything from transporting pre-made set pieces and props, A/V equipment, costumes, actors’ trailers, and more, to setting up the local supply chain, and performing maintenance for the entire production process. The work of production logistics professionals begins well before the cameras start rolling and continues long after the final scene has been shot.

The importance of film logistics cannot be overstated. When everything runs smoothly, few people give a second thought to the logistics involved in the production process. However, when challenges arise, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact on the film industry can be enormous. Film productions were delayed, cancelled, or postponed for months, leaving audiences eagerly waiting for their favorite shows to return. The impact of the pandemic on world logistics made it clear just how crucial logistics and planning are to the success of the film industry.

On the film studio side, logistics planning involves everyone from locations managers and logistics coordinators to production managers and assistant directors. Large studios usually have in-house logistics planning teams, but even the biggest production companies outsource some of their work to logistics companies. Smaller studios or independent film productions often hire third-party companies that specialize in film logistics and planning to take care of the process.

Film logistics professionals are the backbone of the production process, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and the show goes on. From managing transportation and shipping to coordinating the entire set, their work is critical to the success of any film production. Without the hard work and expertise of logistics professionals, the film industry would be impossible to sustain.

Do I Need a Film Logistics Company?

As an assistant director or logistics coordinator for a smaller production, you may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities involved in taking care of set planning and logistics. To start, you should go through a checklist of the equipment that needs to be transported, moved or shipped. Determine whether the studio is taking care of trailers and props, or if you need a reliable logistics partner to handle these tasks for you. If you’re uncertain, consider enlisting the help of a production logistics consultant.

Next, consider the budget. Typically, about 25% of a film’s budget is set aside for logistics and set management. Be sure to leave room in the budget for unexpected expenses and hiccups, both on the way to the filming location and during the return trip. Remember that getting the equipment back can be an afterthought, so it’s important to work with a good logistics and management consultant.

Lastly, don’t forget about the costs associated with permits, authority costs (such as police, traffic management, taxes) and rental fees. Although these responsibilities generally fall under the purview of location managers and scouts, in smaller productions, everyone’s scope may be broader. With proper planning, you can ensure a smooth production and avoid budget overruns.

Choosing Your Film Logistics or Film Shipping Provider

Packair is a logistics company based in LA that has been providing consulting and management services to studios and production professionals for decades. When it comes to logistics support for film production, there are several factors to consider, such as whether it is an international production, multi-locational, or involves customs. Depending on the size of the production and the level of logistics support required, it may be necessary to outsource shipping and customs clearance to a third-party logistics company.

Packair can manage the entire logistics process or help fill any gaps in the logistics chain, thanks to its extensive network of offices, ports, and contacts worldwide. Unlike many logistics companies that outsource certain aspects of the logistics process to third parties, Packair handles everything in-house, from start to finish, with real-time access to your cargo. This means you can rest assured that your equipment is tracked every step of the way, and any problems that arise can be dealt with promptly by Packair’s expert team.

The worst-case scenario for film production logistics is having things get lost or stuck, resulting in delays and confusion. This is where Packair stands out from the crowd. With decades of experience in customs clearance and a team of experts available around the clock, Packair can clear customs anywhere in the country and in international ports. Its logistics consultants are also available at any time to help fill any gaps in the logistics process or take over from your current partners when equipment gets stuck on the journey.

When it comes to logistics and transportation for film production, Packair understands the importance of being behind the scenes and making sure everything runs smoothly, so the show can go on without a hitch.

 

Still Not Sure If You Need Help On Your Set? Or Just Need Consulting?

Packair has helped film studios such as Paramount get their production on schedule for decades. Whether you just have questions or need to compare notes on your film set logistics, Packair's experts are here for you.