How Much Does a Traffic Light Cost?
There is no single price for a traffic light. The cost is set by the signal size, aspect count, housing material, controller, quantity and certification, so a useful budget starts with the configuration, not a catalogue number.
Main cost drivers
| Cost driver | Cheaper end | Higher end |
|---|---|---|
| Signal diameter | 100 mm / 200 mm | 300 mm / 400 mm |
| Aspect count | 1 or 2 aspect | 3 or 4 aspect with arrows |
| Housing | PC plastic | Aluminium / polycarbonate mix |
| Controller | Excluded | Included with cabinet |
| Quantity | Sample / small lot | Container / project volume |
1. Signal size and aspect count
Larger signal heads cost more because they use bigger housings, larger lenses and more LED modules. A 300 mm three-aspect signal costs more than a 200 mm two-aspect unit, and adding a fourth aspect or a 3-in-1 arrow increases the module and wiring count.
When comparing prices, confirm whether the quote is for the signal head only or includes the mounting bracket, visor, terminal block and any countdown display.
2. Housing material and lens
The housing material is a major cost driver. PC (polycarbonate) housings are lighter and more economical; aluminium housings cost more but offer better impact resistance and heat dissipation. The lens type, anti-fog coating and UV stabilisation also affect price and outdoor durability.
3. Controller and cabinet
A signal head alone is not a complete intersection system. The controller, conflict monitor, load switches, cabinet, detectors and cabling are separate line items. If the quote includes a coordinated or adaptive controller, the total will be much higher than a signal head quotation.
4. Quantity and OEM/ODM discounts
LED traffic lights are manufactured in volume, so unit cost falls sharply as quantity rises. A one-off sample price is not representative of a project price. OEM and ODM projects that lock in a custom housing, lens or module also change the cost structure, but offer better long-term pricing for repeat orders.
5. Certification and shipping
Certification such as EN12368, CE or a regional test report adds cost but is required for many tenders. Freight, customs and the destination port also change the landed cost. Ask the supplier to separate ex-works unit price, certification cost and freight so you can compare like for like.
6. How to request an accurate quote
Send the signal diameter, aspect count, indication type, housing material, voltage, controller requirement, certification, quantity and destination. A marked-up drawing or signal schedule gives GAOQIAO everything needed to price the configuration correctly.
Relevant GAOQIAO products
Open these public catalogue pages for representative configurations, then request the latest price for your exact specification.
- 300 mm (12 inch) LED traffic lightsStandard size for intersections, available in ball, arrow and countdown types.
- 200 mm (8 inch) LED traffic lightsCompact and economical for urban and pedestrian use.
- Traffic signal controllersFixed-time and coordinated controllers for complete intersection systems.