5 Money-Saving Boston Film Equipment Rental Tips for Filmmakers

Filmmakers rarely have all of the equipment required to produce a major movie or even an advanced video. While the idea of owning all of the equipment required to produce every style of film and type of video that comes up is certainly “nice” it’s really not all that feasible considering there’s so much different inventory available for filmmakers. Boston film equipment rental costs can quickly add up though. If you’re not careful, you could end up with significantly higher production costs.

These money-saving tips for filmmakers seeking Boston film equipment rental options can help you to keep costs low, even when you don’t have the necessary gear for a shoot. So, before you go rush out to rent that film equipment, consider the following:

1. Always Shop Around Before You Jump on a Rental

The Boston film equipment rental landscape is kind of like insurance or well, any other kind of commodity that you really need to shop for. Rates can vary greatly between companies, and it’s quite possible that shopping around could save you a lot of money in the long-run.

Before you decide on equipment rental, check the various online rental platforms as well as the local equipment providers throughout the city and get all the data before you decide.

2. Consider a Drop Kit Instead of Ala Carte Rentals

If you need several items for a production, consider renting a video drop kit that includes all of the key components for your production at a single rental rate.

Sometimes, even if this means you’ll get a few pieces of gear that you don’t need or already have, it could mean you pay less overall than you would if you were to rent ala carte. Plus, renting all of the gear together could save you time, too!

3. Discuss Your Project with the Rental Company

If you’ve got your plans already set, it can’t hurt to discuss them with the rental company. Oftentimes, Boston film equipment rental companies will have gear that you wouldn’t have thought of, which might work out better or more affordably for you.

You might as well have the conversation, the worst thing that can happen is they won’t provide much help – but there’s a good chance that they’ll be able to assist you.

4. Be Flexible with Pickup and Drop-off Times

If you can be flexible with your pickup and drop-off times, there could be potential money-saving involved. Film equipment rental companies will typically charge a set rate for the time that you have the gear, but if you can be flexible, you might come across some deals.

Of course, that’s not always possible, especially when you’ve got a real busy shoot schedule ahead. In such a case, make sure you always book the equipment for a longer rental period than you need — never for less time!

The last thing you want is to face equipment rental late fees!

5. Keep an Open Mind when it Comes to Technology

Gear rental rates can be significantly higher when you’re looking for the best of the best. If you can, ask the Boston film equipment rental company whether they have comparable gear that is a bit older but can still get the job done.

You might be able to save quite a bit if you’re willing to downgrade your technology a bit without downgrading on the overall ability to get the job done.

Think about whether a change in gear could help you to curb costs without risking quality, and if you can find a way to make it happen — do it!