Commercial LED Shoebox Lights

What are LED Shoebox Lights?

LED Lighting Supply shoebox lights are pole-mounted outdoor fixtures engineered for expansive commercial spaces like parking lots, industrial facilities, and recreational areas. We also call them LED parking lot lights and LED area lights. Their rectangular housing contains precision optics that direct illumination downward and outward from the mounting pole, eliminating dark spots while minimizing light pollution.

After 15+ years in commercial lighting, we have seen these fixtures transform safety and visibility across many projects. Our shoebox light fixtures mount via slip fitter, yoke mount, or direct surface attachment to buildings. The integrated optics spread light away from the pole in controlled patterns, ensuring uniform lighting without wasted upward light.

Most customers appreciate the quick installation since our fixtures match existing mounting hardware. Many of our shoebox lights include dusk-to-dawn photocells for automatic operation. Photocells eliminate manual switching by responding to ambient light levels. Motion sensors add efficiency, dimming fixtures during low-activity periods for substantial energy savings. We recommend combining both controls for maximum cost reduction in large outdoor areas.

Case Study: Addition of LED Security Lighting to a Data Center in Wildorado, TX

After: 150 Watt and 310 Watt LED Shoebox Lights | 23350 and 47430 Lumens

Lighting Plan We Created for the Customer

Lighting Plan	Heat Map

Data Center Outdoor Lighting Installation Plan Metrics

• Mounting height: 18 ft (150 Watt) and 30 ft (310 Watt) ft
• Fixtures Used: LLS-X-SB4-150/120/100/80-CC-[V]: 80 / 100 / 120 / 150 Watt Adjustable LED Shoebox | 12240 to 22950 Lumens | 3000K / 4000K / 5000K | 100-277V or 277-480V
• Fixtures Used: LLS-X-SB4-310/280/260/240-CC-[V]: 240 / 260 / 280 / 310 Watt Adjustable LED Shoebox | 36720 to 47430 Lumens | 3000K / 4000K / 5000K | 100-277V or 277-480V
• FC achieved: 2.51 FC average

What are the Benefits of LED Lighting Supply Shoebox Lights?

• Energy Efficiency - Our shoebox fixtures deliver 50-80% energy savings compared to metal-halide and HID systems, depending on model. Superior luminous efficiency means brighter light using less power.
• High Performance Light Source - Multiple wattage options with toggle-adjustable settings let you fine-tune output after installation. Adjust brightness and color temperature on-site.
• Reduced Maintenance - Maintenance drops dramatically with no bulbs or ballasts requiring replacement. Our customers report 80% fewer service calls compared to traditional fixtures.
• Enhancing Safety - Consistent illumination eliminates dark corners where security issues develop. Bright light improves visibility for cameras and personnel safety.
• Long Lasting Durability - Engineered for harsh weather with ratings exceeding 50,000 hours. Our fixtures withstand temperature extremes, moisture, and vibration better than legacy technologies.
• Advanced Controls - Motion sensors and photocells integrate for intelligent operation. Automatic dimming and scheduling reduce energy costs while maintaining safety standards.
• Instant Illumination - Power outages do not leave parking lots dark - LED fixtures achieve full brightness immediately upon restoration. No warm-up period like metal halide systems.
• Direct Replacement - Effective retrofit solution for aging metal halide and high-pressure sodium installations when properly specified. Existing electrical infrastructure handles reduced LED loads without upgrades in most cases.
• Flexible Mounting - Slip fitter, trunnion, and yoke mount options accommodate virtually any round pole or building configuration.

The significant energy savings achieved with LED technology are well-documented by industry authorities. The U.S. Department of Energy's outdoor lighting guidance confirms that LED parking lot and area lighting can reduce energy consumption by 50% or more compared to conventional technologies, while also providing superior light quality and distribution.

A customer in Colorado replaced their 1000 Watt Metal Halide Lights with our 300 Watt LED shoebox light.

Best Applications for LED Lighting Supply Shoebox Lights

Commercial properties across industries benefit from strategic shoebox lighting placement. Based on thousands of installations, these applications consistently deliver strong results when properly specified:

• Parking lot lighting - Achieves uniform coverage with Type 3 or Type 5 optics selected by mounting location. Perimeter fixtures use Type 3 forward-throw patterns while center areas benefit from Type 5 distribution for 50-80% energy reduction.
• LED street lights - Operate reliably with dusk-to-dawn photocells and slip fitter mounting to existing infrastructure. No electrical modifications required for most municipal retrofits on streets.
• Pathway illumination - Ensures pedestrian safety with 150-200 watt fixtures mounted 20-25 feet high. Motion sensors provide 50% additional savings during low-traffic periods without compromising security.
• Industrial facilities - Demand rugged IP65-rated construction resistant to chemicals, vibration, and extreme temperatures. High-output models reach 50,000 lumens for demanding manufacturing environments.
• Large outdoor areas - Require professional lighting design for uniform coverage without over-illumination. Our complimentary lighting plans ensure optimal fixture placement and wattage selection, subject to site conditions.
• Parks and recreation areas - Use 4000K-5000K color temperatures for natural visibility without harsh glare. Yoke mounts enable precise aiming for irregular terrain and varied mounting heights.
• LED lights for tennis courts - Need four 150 to 300 watt fixtures positioned to minimize player shadows and glare. Proper beam angles contain light within court boundaries per regulations.
• LED lights for pickleball courts - Achieve 30 foot-candles for competitive play using 150-200 watt corner-mounted fixtures. Smaller court dimensions require fewer fixtures than tennis installations.
• LED lights for basketball courts - Benefit from higher mounting and specialized optics that illuminate vertical play zones effectively for aerial gameplay.
• Multi-sport courts - Utilize toggle-adjustable wattage for fine-tuning after installation. Flexible mounting accommodates various pole configurations without custom fabrication.
• LED lights for car dealerships - Showcase inventory with bright, color-accurate illumination that enhances paint and chrome appearance. High CRI options reveal true colors for customer confidence.

Professional lighting design for outdoor commercial spaces follows established industry standards for illumination levels and uniformity. The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recommended practices for exterior environments provide comprehensive guidance on proper light levels, distribution patterns, and design criteria for parking lots, walkways, and other outdoor commercial applications.

Case Study: Lighting up a new Outdoor Pickleball Court with LED Lighting Supply 150 Watt LED Shoebox Lights in Cumming, GA

After: 150 Watt LED Shoebox Light | 24000 Lumens	After: 150 Watt LED Shoebox Light | 24000 Lumens

Lighting Plan We Created for the Customer

Lighting Plan	Heat Map

Outdoor Pickleball Court Lighting Installation Plan Metrics

• Mounting height: 25 ft
• Fixture Used: MLLG-LED-SBHO2-150-50: 150 Watt LED Shoebox Area Light | 24000 Lumens | 5000K | 100V-277V
• FC achieved: 16.07 fc average
• Uniformity (Avg/Min): 1.61

How Many LED Lumens Do You Need To Replace Metal Halide Shoebox Lights?

Superior LED efficiency means dramatically lower wattage achieves equivalent or better illumination than traditional metal halide fixtures. Our toggle-adjustable models provide flexibility to fine-tune output after installation based on actual conditions. However, proper replacement requires professional lighting analysis rather than simple lumen matching. We provide comprehensive lighting plans at no charge to ensure optimal results for your specific layout and requirements.

Voltage and Driver Specifications

Our LED drivers automatically adjust to your building's voltage without manual configuration. Specify your current voltage during ordering - 120V, 208V, 240V, 277V, or 480V, and we will provide the correct driver. The integrated driver handles voltage fluctuations and power quality issues that often damage traditional ballasts. LED fixtures reduce electrical load on your panels, so existing infrastructure typically handles retrofits without upgrades.

Color Temperature Options

Most customers choose 5000K color temperature for metal halide replacement since it provides crisp, white light similar to daylight. 4000K works better when replacing fluorescent systems or creating warmer environments. Our toggle-adjustable fixtures let you select color temperature after installation, eliminating guesswork during planning.

What Light Patterns / Optics Are Available with LED Shoebox Lighting?

Shoebox fixtures use standardized IES light distribution patterns - Types 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. The most common are Types 3 and 5. Type 3 creates a forward-throw pattern ideal for perimeter mounting, directing light forward and laterally while minimizing backlight. Type 5 provides circular distribution ideal for center-of-lot installations where light spreads equally in all directions.

What are the Cost Savings and ROI When You Convert from Metal Halide to LED?

150W LED Parking Lot Lights vs 400W Metal Halide Replacement (with ballast)

Assumptions: Based on 12 hours/day, 365 days/year at $0.20/kWh, 20 fixture(s), and a 15% ballast factor applied to the metal halide wattage (400W lamp + 15% ballast = ~ 460W input).
•  Energy cost and ROI calculations are based on energy savings only and assume an LED fixture cost of $193.00 per fixture.
• Maintenance savings from reduced bulb and ballast replacements are not included in these calculations.

In this example with 20 fixture(s), total LED fixture investment is approximately $3,860.00, and estimated annual energy-only savings are $5,431.20. Simple payback based on energy savings alone is under 9 months. Maintenance savings from eliminating metal halide bulb and ballast replacements provide additional value throughout the fixture's 50,000-hour lifespan, but are not included in this ROI calculation.

We helped this customer add lighting to their parking area. The results were tremendous!

Maintenance Cost Savings

LED fixtures eliminate the recurring costs that make traditional lighting expensive to operate. Metal halide bulbs require replacement every 2-3 years at approximately $25 per bulb plus labor. Ballasts fail every 5-7 years at $75 each plus service calls.

For 20 fixtures over 10 years, maintenance savings alone reach $4,000-6,000, excluding reduced labor, bucket truck rental, and emergency service costs. Our customers report 80% fewer lighting-related service calls after LED conversion. Maintenance staff can focus on other priorities instead of constantly replacing failed components. The improved reliability also eliminates safety concerns from dark areas caused by frequent failures.

Lighting Controls and Certification: Maximizing Performance and Compliance

Advanced controls unlock additional energy savings beyond standard LED efficiency. Motion sensors reduce operating hours by dimming fixtures during inactive periods, while photocells automate dusk-to-dawn operation based on ambient light levels. Combined, these controls can deliver 30-50% additional savings over basic LED installations.

We specify controls based on your usage patterns and savings goals. High-traffic areas benefit from motion sensors with quick response times, while remote locations use longer delay settings to avoid frequent cycling. Photocells with adjustable sensitivity prevent premature activation from nearby lighting or signage.

Safety and Performance Certifications

All our fixtures carry essential certifications, including DLC Premium, UL Listed, and ETL Listed approvals. These certifications ensure safety, performance, and energy efficiency while qualifying your project for utility rebates and tax incentives.

DLC Premium certification guarantees the highest efficiency standards and maximum rebate eligibility. Quality certifications provide essential verification of LED lighting safety and performance standards. DesignLights Consortium (DLC) qualification ensures that LED fixtures meet rigorous energy efficiency criteria and qualify for utility rebate programs, while UL Listed certification confirms that products have undergone comprehensive safety testing for electrical and fire hazards in accordance with national safety standards.

Warranty and Support

All our lights come with at least a 5-year warranty, and all warranty support is based in the USA. We take customer support seriously, and helping you with a warranty claim is important to us. Our experienced support team understands the importance of keeping your lighting operational and will work quickly to resolve any warranty issues.

Installation and Maintenance: Ensuring Longevity and Reliability

Proper installation and ongoing maintenance are key to getting the most out of your shoebox lights. Selecting the right mounting option - whether it is a pole mount, yoke mount, or slip fitter - ensures your fixtures are securely and optimally positioned for maximum illumination and safety, subject to site conditions. Each mounting option is designed to accommodate different pole types and outdoor lighting applications.

Once installed, regular maintenance is essential to keep your LED shoebox lighting operating at peak performance. This includes routine cleaning of the fixtures to remove dirt and debris, as well as periodic inspections to check for any signs of wear or electrical issues. Paying attention to factors like voltage, power, and environmental conditions will help prevent damage and extend the lifespan of your LEDs.

Expert Recommendations Based on 15+ Years of Experience

Based on our extensive experience, the most common choices for shoebox lighting are 150-200 watt fixtures for 400-watt metal halide replacement and 240-300 watt fixtures for 1000-watt metal halide replacement.

5000K color temperature remains the most popular choice, especially for parking lots and commercial applications.

Type 3 and Type 5 optics handle most applications effectively.

What many customers do not initially consider, but should, are motion sensors for additional energy savings and photocells for automatic operation. These control options can increase your energy savings significantly beyond the base LED conversion. Toggle-adjustable wattage and color temperature options are becoming increasingly popular as they provide flexibility after installation without requiring fixture changes.

Why Choose LED Lighting Supply for Your Outdoor Lighting Project

Our technical expertise distinguishes us from generic lighting suppliers who treat all fixtures as commodities. Our experienced product specialists have personally overseen thousands of commercial lighting installations and understand the real-world challenges you face.

We provide complimentary photometric lighting plans that eliminate guesswork from fixture placement and wattage selection. These detailed plans specify exact mounting locations, heights, and optics to achieve uniform coverage while minimizing energy consumption. Our specialists also calculate precise energy savings based on your actual usage patterns and local electricity rates rather than industry estimates. This comprehensive approach ensures your project achieves expected performance and cost savings from day one.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Large parking lot retrofits fail more often from poor planning than equipment problems. Most contractors get caught up in simple wattage matching instead of analyzing actual lighting needs and site conditions first.

• Installing fixtures without proper photometric calculations leads to dark spots and overlighting. Get detailed lighting plans that show foot-candle levels and uniformity ratios before ordering any fixtures.
• Wrong optic selection creates poor light patterns, no matter how much wattage you install. Type 3 optics work for perimeter mounting, Type 5 for center locations.
• Skipping integrated controls costs thousands in missed energy savings over fixture lifetime. Motion sensors and photocells should be factory-installed, not field additions.
• Ordering slip fitter mounts without measuring the existing pole tenons first. Standard slip fitters are 2-3/8 inch, but plenty of older poles use different sizes.
• Missing utility rebate deadlines by not checking DLC qualification during fixture selection. Some utilities require pre-approval before installation starts.
• Installing on an inadequate electrical infrastructure without load calculations. Multiple high-wattage fixtures can overload existing circuits even though LEDs use less power individually.
• Neglecting surge protection in areas with frequent storms. One lightning strike destroys multiple LED drivers that cost more to replace than surge suppressors cost upfront.

Commercial LED Shoebox Lights Frequently Asked Questions

What are LED shoebox lights and how do they work?

LED shoebox lights are pole-mounted outdoor fixtures with rectangular housings containing precision optics that direct illumination downward and outward. They mount via slip fitter, yoke mount, or direct surface attachment to buildings, with integrated optics spreading light away from the pole in controlled patterns for uniform coverage.

What wattage LED shoebox light replaces a 400-watt metal halide?

150-200 watt LED fixtures replace 400-watt metal halide, while 240-300 watt LED replaces 1000-watt metal halide for most parking lots. Do not rely on simple wattage matching - get photometric lighting plans to avoid dark spots and overlighting issues.

What is the difference between Type 3 and Type 5 optics?

Type 3 optics create a forward-throw pattern for perimeter or edge mounting, directing light forward and laterally while minimizing backlight. Type 5 optics provide circular distribution for center-of-lot installations where light spreads equally in all directions.

What color temperature should I choose for parking lot lighting?

5000K color temperature provides crisp white light similar to metal halide replacement and remains the most popular choice for parking lots. 4000K works better for warmer environments or when replacing fluorescent systems.

What mounting options are available for LED shoebox lights?

Mounting options include slip fitter, yoke mount, and direct surface attachment to buildings. Verify slip fitter size before ordering - standard is 2-3/8 inch but older poles may differ.

How much energy can I save by switching to LED shoebox lights?

LED shoebox fixtures deliver 50-80% energy savings compared to metal halide and HID systems. Motion sensors and photocells deliver 30-50% additional energy savings beyond LED conversion.

What certifications should I look for in LED shoebox lights?

Look for DLC Premium, UL Listed, and ETL Listed approvals. DLC Premium certification guarantees the highest efficiency standards and maximum rebate eligibility while ensuring safety and performance.

What controls can be added to LED shoebox lights?

Motion sensors reduce operating hours by dimming fixtures during inactive periods, while photocells automate dusk-to-dawn operation based on ambient light levels. Combined controls can deliver 30-50% additional savings over basic LED installations.

What voltage options are available?

LED drivers automatically adjust to your building's voltage - 120V, 208V, 240V, 277V, or 480V. LED fixtures reduce electrical load on panels, so existing infrastructure handles retrofits without upgrades in most cases.

When should I not use LED shoebox lights?

Do not use when mounting height is inadequate for proper light distribution, electrical infrastructure is insufficient to handle multiple fixtures, no surge protection exists in areas with frequent storms, or site conditions demand specialized fixtures like hazardous location ratings.

What is the warranty on LED shoebox lights?

All lights come with at least a 5-year warranty with USA-based warranty support.

What are toggle-adjustable LED shoebox lights?

Toggle-adjustable models allow wattage and color temperature changes after installation, eliminating guesswork during planning and providing flexibility to fine-tune output based on actual conditions.