What does the term "load-in" refer to in event production?

The term "load-in" specifically refers to the process of delivering and setting up equipment at the venue. This phase is crucial in event production, as it involves transporting all necessary materials, including sound, lighting, staging, and other logistical components, from their point of origin to the event site. During load-in, event professionals ensure that all equipment is properly positioned and configured so that everything is ready for the event.

This process is an essential part of the overall event timeline, involving careful coordination and timing to meet the production schedule. Successful load-in can significantly impact the overall flow of the event, as it lays the groundwork for the setup and ensures that there is adequate time available for testing audio-visual elements or making last-minute adjustments before attendees arrive.

In contrast, cleaning up after the event refers to teardown, which occurs after the event has concluded. Planning the event schedule is an entirely different activity that focuses on organizing the timing of various aspects of the event, while designing promotional materials pertains to marketing and advertising efforts rather than the logistical setup of the event itself.