The world of broadcast production moves fast, and there’s no room for error when you’re preparing for a live or on-location shoot. Whether it’s a high-stakes sports event, a multi-camera live show, or a remote segment filmed under tight deadlines, the success of the production hinges on one key element: logistics. At EFM Global, we understand what’s at stake. With decades of experience and a client roster that spans the biggest names in media, we are the trusted logistics partner for production companies that demand precision.
This blog offers an essential introduction to broadcast logistics, designed for production teams preparing for their first big shoot. It follows a practical, phase-by-phase breakdown, grounded in the real-world challenges EFM solves every day.
Pre-Shoot Planning: Setting the Foundation
Before any gear is packed or shipped, a successful broadcast starts with preparation.
Define the Requirements
Live TV environments are all different. Is this a studio shoot, a remote location, or a hybrid setup? Are you working with a local crew or flying in your team? From camera specs to lighting rigs, knowing your needs upfront prevents costly delays later.
To define these requirements effectively, work closely with your production team and department heads to identify specific gear types, rigging needs, power supply requirements, and environmental factors like weather or limited space. Clarifying these details early helps your logistics partner preempt challenges, recommend transport methods, and prepare specialised equipment handling or packaging strategies that suit your shoot’s unique demands.
Map Out Your Timeline
The earlier the logistics team is looped in, the better. Build a timeline that includes load-in and load-out windows, tech rehearsals, and shipping cutoffs. With broadcast deadlines, missed delivery windows are not an option. EFM’s teams regularly work backwards from hard air times to ensure on-time delivery, no matter where in the world your shoot is happening.
In addition to aligning shipping and setup with your production schedule, it’s important to identify any points of overlap between departments, such as shared staging areas, crew call times, or limited access windows at the venue. Communicating these details clearly allows your logistics provider to sequence deliveries and pickups in a way that avoids bottlenecks. EFM often works with production coordinators to integrate logistics milestones directly into call sheets and run-of-show documents, helping ensure complete alignment across every moving part of the shoot.
Lock In a Proven Logistics Partner
When your reputation is on the line, you can’t afford a generic shipping provider. You need a team that knows TV logistics inside and out. EFM Global has handled television gear shipping for major live events, award shows, and breaking news coverage. We don’t just deliver equipment, we deliver reliability, speed, and expertise.
Packing and Inventory: Protect What Powers the Production
Create a Master Inventory
Successful logistics starts with a clear picture of what’s moving. Log serial numbers, condition notes, and handling instructions. This helps ensure everything returns the same way it arrived.
Use Proper Broadcast Cases
Custom foam inserts, waterproof containers, and durable labelling aren’t optional; they’re required. EFM provides production-specific packing solutions that reduce damage risk and improve setup speed on-site.
Don’t Forget the Extras
Production delays often come down to something small, like an adapter, a cable, or a missing battery. EFM’s teams help clients build smart redundancies into their kits so there are no surprises once the clock starts ticking.
Transport and Delivery: Precision in Motion
Select the Right Mode
Is this a domestic gig or an international production? Will the gear travel overland, by air, or both? EFM maps transport plans that match production windows while staying within budget and customs regulations.
Coordinate Across Teams
We align our logistics with your call sheets and production schedules. Whether it’s a 2 a.m. load-in or a same-day turnaround, EFM operates with broadcast timelines in mind.
Get Customs Right the First Time
When you’re moving sensitive gear across borders, paperwork can make or break the timeline. Our customs experts have cleared thousands of shipments globally. We manage all documentation and compliance requirements, so your gear moves without delay.
On-Site Execution: Support Where It Counts
Confirm Arrival and Condition
EFM doesn’t just ship gear; we stay involved. Our team verifies arrivals, performs initial checks, and ensures all items are production-ready.
Adapt to Real-Time Needs
Shoot conditions change fast. We’re used to rerouting freight in the middle of storms, sourcing last-minute equipment, and coordinating ground crews with just hours of notice.
Wrap Efficiently
We support breakdown and return shipping with just as much care as the initial move. Your gear is logged, repacked, and returned, or sent straight to the next location.
Why Choose EFM?
EFM Global isn’t just a logistics provider; we’re a production partner. Our teams understand the speed, pressure, and detail required for a live broadcast. From planning and packing to customs clearance and on-site execution, we’ve done it all, and done it well. That’s why major studios, networks, and production companies trust us with their most mission-critical projects.
Conclusion
In broadcast production, logistics is more than a support function; it’s the backbone of the entire operation. Every shoot, whether it’s your first or your hundredth, deserves the attention and experience that only a trusted logistics partner can provide. At EFM Global, we’ve built our reputation by delivering under pressure and partnering with teams to make every frame possible.
From the first planning call to the final gear return, our team is with you every step of the way. If you’re preparing for an upcoming production, we’d love to show you how our tailored approach to TV logistics can help you stay ahead of the unexpected.
Get in touch to start planning your next broadcast with confidence.
