A client asks about a light box. The answer it depends is correct — but unsatisfying. This article gives you concrete numbers: what do light boxes really cost, what drives the price, and how do you quote one properly?

Prices here are market benchmarks for 2026. For your specific quote: PlotonIQ calculates in 30 seconds

Light Box Prices by Type 2026

Simple LED light box (frame with film front)

Aluminium frame, LED strips, replaceable film front — the standard for retail, offices and medical practices.

  • A2 format (42x59 cm): 150-280 EUR material + 1-2h installation
  • A1 format (59x84 cm): 220-380 EUR material + 1.5-2.5h installation
  • 100x200 cm: 600-950 EUR material + 3-4h installation
  • 150x100 cm: 750-1,100 EUR material + 3-5h installation

Deep-face LED light box

  • 150x70 cm: 800-1,300 EUR + 3-4h installation
  • 200x100 cm: 1,400-2,200 EUR + 4-6h installation

LED channel letters

  • Per running metre (20 cm letter height): 280-480 EUR
  • Per running metre (40 cm letter height): 480-750 EUR
  • Installation: 4-8h depending on length

Pylons

  • Small pylon up to 2m: 1,800-3,500 EUR + 6-10h installation
  • Medium pylon 2-4m: 3,500-7,000 EUR + 8-16h installation

LED vs. Neon

LED: 15-25 watts/m2, 50,000+ hour lifespan, minimal maintenance. Neon: 80-150 watts/m2, 8,000-15,000 hours, tubes need replacing every 2-3 years. LED is the better choice in almost all applications.

Installation costs

  • Electrical connection: if not present, 150-400 EUR extra for an electrician
  • Elevated work platform from 4m height: 200-450 EUR/day
  • Removal of old unit: 1-3h

Installation time benchmarks

  • Wall mount up to 100x70cm: 1.5-2.5h, 1 person
  • Wall mount up to 200x100cm: 3-5h, 2 people
  • Channel letters 5 characters: 4-6h, 2 people
  • Channel letters 10+ characters: 6-10h, 2 people

Planning permission

Light boxes in Germany usually require planning permission: above 0.5m2 face area, on listed buildings, freestanding pylons always. Cost: 50-300 EUR, processing time 4-12 weeks. Check permit requirements before quoting.

Sample calculation: LED light box 150x70 cm

  • Material: 420 EUR
  • Design and print: 85 EUR
  • Travel (20km): 18 EUR
  • Installation 3.5h x 80 EUR/h: 280 EUR
  • Electrical connection: 45 EUR
  • 25% margin: 212 EUR
  • Quote price ex-VAT: approx. 1,060 EUR / incl. VAT: approx. 1,261 EUR

PlotonIQ calculates this in under 30 seconds. Try free | Installation times in detail | Hourly rate calculation

FAQ

How long does an LED light box last?

Quality LED: 10-15 years without significant maintenance. Film fades after 5-7 years of UV exposure. Power supplies last 5-8 years.

Can I install a light box myself?

The electrical connection must be inspected by a certified electrician. For external installations above 3m: certified scaffolding or elevated work platform required.

Conclusion

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