Bringing your trusted gear? Totally doable – but it’s important to follow the right procedures, especially if you’re carrying professional-grade equipment.

If your kit includes more than just personal-use items (think: multiple cameras, lenses, drones, lighting setups), you’ll likely need to declare it at customs. This requirement applies even for short-term shoots. Chinese customs may request a detailed gear list and, in some cases, official documentation to confirm that the equipment is only being used for filming—not for resale. One common solution is to use an ATA Carnet, which simplifies the process of temporarily importing professional gear.

local gear rentals filming in Inner Mongolia, China

What Is an ATA Carnet, and Do You Need One?

An ATA Carnet is an internationally recognized customs document that allows the temporary import of professional equipment without paying duties or taxes. China accepts ATA Carnets, but their implementation may vary depending on your entry point and gear type.

If your country issues ATA Carnets (check here) and your shoot qualifies, this can be a smooth and cost-effective solution. But if you’re not sure whether it applies to your situation, just send us your equipment list – we’ll let you know if a carnet works for you or if a local import declaration is better.

Step-by-Step: Bringing Your Equipment Legally into China

Here’s what the process of importing filming gear typically looks like:

  • 1.  Prepare your equipment list — include model names, serial numbers, and estimated values.
  • 2.  Check if ATA Carnet is valid for your setup or if a local import declaration is needed.
  • 3.  Submit paperwork to Chinese customs in advance (if required).
  • 4.  Work with a local fixer to manage on-site clearance and any translations.
  • 5.  Clear customs at arrival airport — some equipment may be subject to inspection.

Pro tip: Avoid last-minute surprises by coordinating this at least 1~2 weeks before your shoot.

Should You Rent Filming Gear in China Instead?

Don’t want to deal with customs paperwork? Renting gear locally in China is a popular, hassle-free option.

At Mandarin Film, we work with trusted rental partners in all major production hubs – including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and more. Have specific technical needs? No problem — we’ll work with you to source equivalent or similar gear that meets your shoot requirements.

Whether you need high-end cameras or just a few lighting units, we’ve got you covered. Our rental support includes:

  • Camera and lens kits (ARRI Alexa, RED, Sony, Canon, etc.)
  • Lighting & grip equipment (Aputure, ARRI, Dedolight, KinoFlo, etc.)
  • Drones with licensed pilots
  • Sound recording packages and monitors
  • On-set support, prep, and testing

We ensure all gear is tested, maintained, and delivered on time, with technical staff on call if needed.

Drone Equipment and Legal Considerations

Drone footage is popular, but China has quite strict regulations. You’ll need to:

  • Register the drone with the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) in advance 
  • Avoid restricted airspace (military zones, urban centers, and heritage sites)
  • Use a licensed local operator — for many productions, this is the simplest and safest route

If you need aerials, we can arrange licensed drone operators with insured equipment in your shoot locations.

Mandarin Film’s Equipment Support Services

Whether you’re importing gear or renting locally, Mandarin Film can coordinate:

  • Customs clearance for your filming equipment
  • Carnet and document translating and review
  • Local equipment rentals and sourcing
  • On-set technical support and logistics

We’re here to make sure your production in China is efficient, legal, and stress-free. Contact us here to work together and decide what’s best — bring or rent — and get everything ready for your next China shoot!