What Is an Equipment Floater and Why Do You Need One?

In the world of entertainment and production, the tools of your trade—cameras, lighting rigs, sound equipment, and other specialized gear—are often your most valuable assets. Whether you’re working on a film set, shooting a music video, or covering a live event, your equipment is essential to getting the job done. But what happens if that equipment is damaged, lost, or stolen while on the move? That’s where an equipment floater comes in.

What Is an Equipment Floater?

An equipment floater is a type of insurance policy specifically designed to cover movable property, such as the equipment you use in your entertainment or production projects. Unlike standard property insurance, which typically only covers items at a fixed location, an equipment floater provides coverage wherever your gear goes. This could be during transport, on location, or even while it’s being used in a remote area.

Simply put, an equipment floater “floats” with your equipment, ensuring that your valuable tools are protected no matter where your work takes you.

Why Do You Need an Equipment Floater?

1. Protection During Transport

One of the most significant risks to your equipment occurs during transport. Whether you’re shipping gear to a different city for a film shoot or simply driving across town with your equipment in the back of a truck, there’s always a chance that something could go wrong. Items could be damaged in transit, lost in shipment, or even stolen.

An equipment floater covers your gear during transport, ensuring that you’re not left out of pocket if something happens along the way. This coverage is especially important for professionals who regularly move equipment between locations, such as filmmakers, photographers, and event organizers.

2. Coverage on Location

When you’re working on location, whether it’s a film set, a concert venue, or a remote outdoor shoot, the risks to your equipment increase. Gear can be accidentally damaged during setup or use, or it could be lost or stolen when you’re working in unfamiliar environments.

With an equipment floater, you’re covered for these risks, providing peace of mind that your equipment is protected wherever your work takes you. This allows you to focus on the task at hand without worrying about the financial implications of potential mishaps.

3. Protection for Rented Equipment

Many entertainment professionals rent equipment for specific projects, especially when specialized gear is required. Rental equipment can be just as vulnerable to damage, loss, or theft as your own gear, and you’re often responsible for it while it’s in your possession.

An equipment floater can extend to cover rented equipment, ensuring that you’re not on the hook for expensive repair or replacement costs if something happens. This coverage is crucial when working with high-value rental items that could otherwise leave you facing significant financial liability.

4. Flexibility for Changing Needs

The nature of entertainment and production work means that your equipment needs can change frequently. One project might require a completely different set of tools than the next, and you might acquire new equipment or rent additional items as needed.

An equipment floater offers the flexibility to cover a wide range of items, including new purchases, rented gear, and even borrowed equipment. This adaptability ensures that your coverage keeps pace with your evolving needs, protecting your assets no matter how your projects change.

Conclusion

In the fast-paced and dynamic world of entertainment and production, protecting your equipment is essential to maintaining the success of your projects. An equipment floater is a specialized insurance policy that provides comprehensive coverage for your gear, wherever your work takes you. Whether you’re transporting equipment, working on location, or using rented gear, an equipment floater ensures that your valuable tools are protected against damage, loss, and theft.

By securing an equipment floater, you can focus on creating great content, knowing that your most important assets are covered. Trust MovieInsure to help you find the right equipment floater for your needs, so you can work with confidence and peace of mind.