10 Mistakes Pros Make When Buying Lighting Online

Mistake #1: Focusing Only on Price

It’s tempting to chase the lowest price. But when lighting decisions are made on cost alone, the risks add up: poor quality, short lifespan, or suppliers who can’t deliver on time. Cheap fixtures often end up costing more in replacements, labor, and headaches.

Avoid It: Balance cost with value. Work with trusted partners who provide competitive trade pricing and stand behind their products.

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Mistake #2: Ignoring Scale and Proportions

A photo online can be deceiving. A chandelier that looks perfect on a website might overwhelm a room in reality—or worse, look too small.

Avoid It: Always review the dimensions and compare them to your space plan. Use project boards or visualizers to confirm scale before you order.

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Mistake #3: Overlooking Lead Times

Clients expect quick turnarounds. But some online retailers bury shipping details, leaving you surprised by long delays that stall your project.

Avoid It: Ask upfront about lead times and availability. With platforms like LNY Pro, you can see live inventory and shipping timelines in real time.

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Mistake #4: Forgetting About Installation Needs

Lighting isn’t plug-and-play. Complex fixtures often need professional installation, extra wiring, or additional parts. Overlooking these needs creates last-minute scrambling.

Avoid It: Factor in installation requirements before purchase. Confirm if mounting kits, dimmers, or extra parts are included.

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Mistake #5: Skipping Finish Samples

Colors and finishes online can look different in person. Ordering without samples may lead to mismatched tones that disappoint your client.

Avoid It: Request finish samples whenever possible. Small details—like matching brass to hardware—make a big impact on the finished design.

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Mistake #6: Overbuying or Underbuying

Without a clear plan, it’s easy to miscalculate how many fixtures a space needs. Too few leaves rooms dim and unbalanced, while too many waste money.

Avoid It: Create a full lighting plan before ordering. Use lumen calculations and zone planning to strike the right balance.

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Mistake #7: Ignoring Return Policies

Not all retailers make returns easy. Some charge steep restocking fees or won’t accept returns at all, leaving you stuck with fixtures you can’t use.

Avoid It: Read return policies carefully before buying. Work with suppliers like LNY Pro who offer flexible return options designed for pros.

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Mistake #8: Forgetting Energy and Code Requirements

Lighting that doesn’t meet local codes or energy standards can derail inspections and upset clients who care about sustainability.

Avoid It: Confirm energy efficiency ratings and local compliance before purchase. Partner with suppliers who understand code requirements.

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Mistake #9: Relying on Retailer Descriptions Alone

Not all online listings tell the full story. Incomplete descriptions may leave out details like wattage, dimming compatibility, or ceiling slope limitations.

Avoid It: Always request full spec sheets. Trusted pro suppliers provide all the technical details you need to avoid surprises.

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Mistake #10: Forgetting the Client Experience

At the end of the day, lighting isn’t just about function—it’s about how your client feels in the space. Choosing fixtures without considering their lifestyle or vision can create disappointment.

Avoid It: Involve clients in the selection process with digital project boards and visual tools. Transparency builds confidence and strengthens your relationship.

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A Helpful Analogy

Buying lighting online without a plan is like grocery shopping while hungry—you’ll end up with things you don’t need, and none of it works together. With the right strategy, though, you can walk away with exactly what you need to create a satisfying result.