Buying or Hiring a Portable Stage for Events: An Informative Guide
When deciding between buying or hiring a portable staging system like NexGen Staging, the first consideration should be the frequency of use.
Frequency of Use: If you don’t plan to use the staging system multiple times, purchasing may not be a viable option. Mobile stage systems can be expensive, especially if intended for one-time events like weddings or parties. However, if you anticipate frequent use by yourself, a community group, or for regular events, buying could be more cost-effective than renting repeatedly.
Cost Analysis: NexGen Staging provides an equation to help decide whether to buy or hire. This equation considers the equipment needed for various events, such as parties, school performances, and corporate events. A portable stage system’s versatility allows it to adapt to different requirements, whether for a fashion show runway or a standard stage for dancers or speakers. The system can also be configured into smaller stages, offering multiple stage layouts from a single purchase.
Rule of Thumb: According to NexGen Staging’s 2024 price list and industry rental costs, if you expect to use the staging system at least seven times, purchasing it may be as cost-effective as renting. This 7:1 ratio is a general guideline, with some factors potentially altering this balance.
Additional Considerations:
• Storage: Portable stages need storage space, which can be challenging in multi-use venues like halls or churches. However, the lightweight and compact design of modern systems allows for easy transportation and storage, even in personal vehicles. A flight case can provide secure storage in community spaces.
• Assembly & Take-down: Advances in portable stage systems, such as NexGen Staging’s Platinum – Magnetic system, have simplified assembly and reduced the weight of individual stage platforms to under 8kg, making it possible for one person to set up and dismantle the stage.
• Finance: Buying a staging system outright can be costly, but financing options may spread the expense over time. Renting can ease immediate financial burdens but results in ongoing costs without asset ownership.
This guide aims to help you decide whether to buy or hire a stage system. For further questions or information, feel free to contact us. Additionally, our free PDF guide on Magnetic Staging may provide more insights.
Looking for more expert advice on event planning and portable stage solutions? Visit our homepage to explore a wide range of resources tailored to your needs.
Author
NexGen Staging Limited is a UK portable stage manufacturer. Founded and Owned by Nathan Griffin. Nathan started in the staging industry selling Revostage in 2004. He left to form NexGen Staging in 2016 and has since supplied over 2000 portable stages to end users across the UK and Europe. Nathan’s passion for Portable Stage innovations have brought many additional features over the years, most recently the use of “lock free” staging using Magnetic technology instead. This innovative invention by Griffin has lead to lighter and easier to handle stage platform modules, making portable stages easier and quicker to assemble.