Picture Car Glossary
non-union work in picture car production
What is a non-union work in picture car production?
Updated June 2026 · Revolution Picture Cars
Also called non-union.
Non-union work in picture car production refers to transportation, wrangling, driving, and coordination services performed outside of the jurisdiction of labor unions like the Teamsters.
Non-union productions, including many independent films, student films, and low-budget commercials, operate under individually negotiated contracts and may have different pay scales, working conditions, and safety requirements than union projects. Car owners and wranglers should verify the production's status and contract terms before committing to non-union engagements.
Example
A commercial or low-budget feature runs transportation outside a Teamsters agreement: different rates, different hours, no union classifications. Legal and common, and it changes both the cost and the crew pool available.
Figures are illustrative, chosen to show the mechanics rather than to quote market rates.
Where you'll see it
Common on commercials, independent features, and content below union budget thresholds.
Common mistake
Treating non-union as simply cheaper. Rates are lower and classifications disappear, but so does the depth of experienced transportation crew available in some regions.
Related questions
- Is non-union picture car work legal?
- Yes. It is common on commercials, independent features, and content below union budget thresholds, and it operates outside the Teamsters agreements.
- What changes on a non-union show?
- Rates, hours, and driver classifications, and often the crew pool. Wage and hour law still applies regardless of union status.
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