Matthew Donati 
Film and TV production is a competitive industry. Sets are tightly controlled, all aspects are carefully planned down to the minute, with costs set out well in advance. Ensuring that a set runs smoothly and efficiently is an important part of the whole production process. One aspect of this world that you might not have considered is the use of plant to build, move, and remove sets for TV and film production. A rotating telehandler is one of the most common sights on a TV and film set, providing great flexibility and safety for a variety of tasks.
What is a rotating telehandler?
Whereas a fixed-frame telehandler has a chassis that is completely stationary, a rotating telehandler instead has a turntable or turret located on top of the chassis that has the capability to rotate a full 360 degrees. This provides great flexibility and strength when handling and lifting heavy and cumbersome loads, especially in locations where space is at a premium. Telehandlers, and roto telehandlers specifically, are commonly seen on construction sites, farms and other agricultural settings, alongside warehouse and logistics companies. Wherever there is a lack of space and the need to move large and heavy materials at height, a roto telehandler can come in handy.
Telehandlers and screens
Telehandlers are often used in the industry to help move green screens and shade screens into place. These are essential in the world of filmmaking, as they provide a backdrop for special effects and help to control lighting conditions and other external factors that could have a negative impact on the final product. A telehandler is the perfect tool to help move these large screens into the correct position, with accuracy and without impacting the rest of the set.
The flexibility of roto telehandlers
A telehandler combines the functions of a crane and a forklift, and a rotating telehandler provides great strength and flexibility in even the tightest of spaces, which in the film and TV world is often the case. They can lift materials and items up to 30 metres, supporting heavy loads, and delivering items in a precise and safe manner. From green screens and shade screens to lighting rigs, props, goods cages and pallets, and moving film and sound equipment safely to a higher position, telehandlers can play a part, in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Choosing the right roto telehandler supplier
The film and TV world is constantly moving at a fast pace. There might not always be the need for certain types of equipment and machinery, and the set locations may change quickly. A rotating telehandler is almost always the best choice for a set, whether indoor or outdoor. Working with a trustworthy plant hire service ensures that you receive the latest and safest model of telehandler to site, keeping your crew safe and the production moving forward without a hitch. When you throw in the potential for telehandler attachments, there is even greater flexibility for using roto telehandlers on a film or TV set.
