Way too much crap

Whatever works for you. There is validity to your method but I guess it depends on your typical client base and their typical budget. If I were to charge like that I'd never get hired. . .I just don't have folks with the kind of money to charge like I'm always bringing all my audio gear, lighting, etc. etc. with me if I'm not using it. As to your scenario, if it's something complex enough to worry about, I try to ask all the questions I can think of, and charge for what I think I'll need (or potentially need) based on their answers. I don't have "production vehicle," per se' it's just my regular SUV, so it gets loaded/unloaded for each gig, so I can't simply "go to the car" for lights unless those lights were already there, which they wouldn't be unless I brought them/charged for them for that gig already.
 
No matter how you figure it, we are all pack mules unless you can hire some muscle. I almost always work by myself, or, the first person I hire would be audio-pro and maybe they can help pack some stuff for me. All of my work is biz to biz, so I don't deal with producers or crews, the only outsider might be an ad professional-consultant. But I never work for them. It's a narrow business model, but I do a few other things which are complimentary.

Side note: One thing I learned is a really carefully packed luggage system is worth whatever you pay for it.

G
 
The optimal amount of bags/cases is the amount that one person can carry. I find that dealing with less stuff makes me shoot more and get more footage.
 
In my case I may only be shooting a talking head or something...no b roll or anything narrative, so I would shoot the same amount of footage regardless.
 
Im sort of doing this right now. (working out of my van and absolutely with a co-hort)

Pack 'gear for the job'.

FS7, Sack of Glass and vlocks, 2 panels, sticks. 2 Cstands two sandbags.

Throw loads more in the van that 'might' be needed...

Black cloths, white cloths, grip grip, dolly track, Ronin+BMC!

For example a black cloth to block a window can have a huge positive impact on a shoot and I would not feel professional say 'I have one.. at the office'

The 'job' gear is loaded right by the doors.

--

Yesterday I worked just from my ready kit.

Last week we got ahead of schedule and were able to offer an over table shot or a 'meeting scenario' using the 'might' kit.

Client appreciated that shot.

Charging wise its a single fee for whatever I can ram in the van.
 
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