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Client Crew Planning

How to plan a stagehand crew for your San Diego event

Use the work and schedule to shape your crew request. You can start a conversation before every detail is final.

Hands On Labor supplies experienced stagehands and event setup and teardown crews for concerts, festivals, and corporate events. Share what you know about the project so dispatch can discuss a suitable staffing plan.

Describe the work before estimating headcount

Start with the tasks: unloading trucks, moving cases, assembling stage decks, assisting production departments, resetting the venue, or striking the show. Separate general stagehand work from specialist technical and equipment-operator roles. A crew estimate depends on the scope, access, equipment, and time available.

  • Event type, venue, and production contact
  • Truck or equipment volume, if known
  • Departments and tasks needing support
  • Your target load-in, rehearsal, show, and strike times

Separate load-in, show support, and strike calls

These phases can require different roles, start times, and crew sizes. Share the schedule you have, even if some details are still being worked out. Tell dispatch about overnight work, multi-day builds, and any changes between the initial setup and the final load-out.

  • Dates and reporting times for each phase
  • Work expected during the show
  • Estimated duration and handover points
  • Who will communicate schedule changes

Explain site access and who directs the crew

A useful call sheet tells people where to report and whom to contact. Include loading-dock access, parking or check-in instructions, and any credential or attire requirements. Identify your production lead and discuss whether the assignment needs a working crew lead.

  • Reporting location and on-site contact
  • Parking, dock, elevator, or access restrictions
  • Attire, tools, and site-specific requirements
  • Required operator or specialist qualifications

Confirm the booking details with dispatch

Review the scope, role mix, availability, rates, minimum call, and cancellation terms before booking. Confirm who provides equipment and tools and how hours will be reviewed. An inquiry starts the conversation; dispatch confirms the final crew arrangement.

  • Confirmed roles and headcount
  • Call times and applicable billing terms
  • Tools, equipment, and crew-lead arrangements
  • Your contact for changes before and during the call

Not sure how many people you need? Describe the tasks and available time in a crew quote inquiry. If you already have a complete call sheet, use the detailed crew request.

Discuss your next crew call

Tell us the venue, work, and schedule. We’ll discuss roles, availability, and booking terms with you.