Production Tips

Filming permits in China vary by location type and project nature. Public streets and parks: generally require approval from the local Public Security Bureau and relevant municipal departments. Private venues: permission from the venue owner is usually sufficient. Heritage sites and government buildings: require approval from the relevant cultural authority. Studio and soundstage: generally no special permits required beyond the studio rental agreement. For international productions, the key permit is the Foreign Film Shooting Permit (外国人来华拍摄许可), required for any foreign production company filming in mainland China. This is issued by the China Film Bureau and typically takes 2-4 weeks to process. Your Chinese co-production partner or equipment rental company can sponsor the application. At Zhanru, we assist international clients with the entire permit process through our network of local fixers and production coordinators. We handle the paperwork, coordinate with authorities, and ensure your production stays compliant. Our services include: location scouting with permit feasibility assessment, document preparation and submission, on-site permit compliance support, and drone flight approvals (CAAC).

Power management is crucial for smooth production in China. China uses 220V/50Hz power (Type A/I outlets), which differs from North American 120V/60Hz. Key considerations: Voltage: bring step-down transformers or use equipment with universal power supplies (most professional film equipment is dual-voltage 100-240V). Plugs: China primarily uses Type A (two-prong flat) and Type I (three-prong angled) outlets. We provide adapter kits for international equipment. Studio power: major studios in Beijing and Shanghai provide three-phase power with sufficient amperage for large lighting setups. Always request power specs before booking. Location power: rural locations and historical sites (especially in Hengdian and Xi'an) may have limited power capacity. We provide portable generators (Honda EU2200i for small setups, 6500W diesel generators for larger productions) and battery solutions. Generator hire ranges from ¥500-2,000/day. Battery solutions: V-mount and Gold Mount battery systems for powering cameras and lights without wall power. We stock Anton Bauer, SWIT, and Core SWX batteries with chargers. Our team pre-assesses power availability at every location and provides a detailed power distribution plan before your shoot day.

Cross-city equipment logistics in China requires careful planning but is highly efficient thanks to the country's excellent transportation infrastructure. Delivery options: Local delivery (same city): we deliver directly to your set, hotel, or studio — typically free within 30km of our depot, with a small fee for further distances. Inter-city shipping: Beijing to Shanghai (2-3 days by road, overnight by air cargo), Beijing to Hengdian (1-2 days by road), Beijing to Xi'an or Changchun (1-2 days by road). Express logistics via SF Express or JD Logistics for smaller packages (next-day delivery within China). Best practices: Order at least 3 business days before your shoot for inter-city deliveries. Use our custom Pelican-style flight cases for all shipments — included free with rental. Always request equipment inspection on delivery (we provide a detailed checklist). For multi-city shoots, we can pre-position equipment at each location. Insurance during transit: our rental agreement covers equipment in transit between our depots and your location. For self-arranged logistics, we recommend purchasing transit insurance (approximately 0.3-0.5% of equipment value). We also handle international customs clearance for equipment brought into China via ATA Carnet or temporary import procedures.

Understanding Chinese production culture helps ensure smooth collaboration. Working hours: Chinese film crews typically work long hours (12-14 hour days are common on feature films). However, crew meal breaks are sacred — expect a 1-1.5 hour lunch break, usually around noon. Always factor meal times into your schedule. Communication: even with bilingual crew support, prepare visual references (storyboards, mood boards, reference clips) to minimize miscommunication. Chinese crews respond well to visual direction. Use WeChat (not WhatsApp) for local communication — it's the universal messaging app in China. Meals and hospitality: providing meals for your Chinese crew is expected and important for morale. Our production coordinators can arrange catering or recommend local restaurants. Hierarchy: Chinese productions tend to have a more formal hierarchy. Address department heads directly for technical decisions rather than going through assistants. Payment culture: Chinese crew members typically expect daily payment or weekly settlement. We handle all local crew payments on behalf of international productions. Holidays: be aware of Chinese public holidays (Chinese New Year in Jan/Feb, National Day in October) when crew availability and studio bookings can be significantly affected. Plan around these major holidays well in advance.