When it comes to driving commerce in the Midwest, few tools have had as powerful and often overlooked of an impact as the Shipping Container. In Chicago, a city known for its deep roots in logistics, trade, and transportation, shipping containers have become more than just steel boxes — they’re key players in the city’s economic growth and ongoing innovation.
Chicago: A Natural Hub for Container Commerce
Chicago’s central location makes it one of the busiest inland freight hubs in the United States. Situated at the crossroads of major interstate highways, railways, and shipping routes, the city is uniquely positioned to handle the flow of intermodal containers, linking coastal ports with inland distribution networks. The city’s expansive rail yards and access to global shipping lines like MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company) have helped shape its reputation as a freight powerhouse. For cargo shipping companies, Chicago provides the perfect access point to move goods efficiently across the country — and the world.
This high volume of container movement also creates a steady, reliable supply of New, Used & Specialized shipping containers available for purchase in the area. Whether you’re a contractor needing a 20ft storage container, a business looking for mobile storage, or an entrepreneur exploring container-based building structures, Chicago’s position in the supply chain makes it one of the most cost-effective and convenient places to buy shipping containers.
Shipping Containers in Chicago- Local Innovation
Shipping containers aren’t just moving goods — they’re supporting industries and sparking innovation. From construction to retail to hospitality, Chicago-area businesses are using cargo containers in dynamic ways that add value to the local economy.
Take Starbuck Coffee on the corner of Broadway & Devon, Lawndale Pop Up Plaza, Recess Bar & Patio on Kenzie, Beach Bar in Yorkville, IL, for example.
These popular destinations created an entire container-based concept using used conex containers. These units were transformed into a full-service outdoor bar, adding both a unique aesthetic and efficient functionality. The result? A cost-effective structure that draws in crowds, boosts tourism, and supports local employment — all while showcasing the versatility of shipping containers.
Why More Chicago Businesses Are Turning to Shipping Containers:
- Containers are fast, flexible, and cost-effective alternative to traditional construction
- Built to last—durable, secure, and weather-resistant for all-season use
- Perfect for a variety of applications, including:
- On-site storage
- Mobile offices
- Classroom overflow
- Sports equipment storage
- Construction jobsite storage
- Custom commercial spaces like pop-up bars or cafes
- Requires minimal site prep and offers quick delivery and setup
- Easily customized to fit your business’s unique needs
- Helps businesses save time and reduce costs
- Supports scalability, innovation, and greater operational efficiency
Why Buy From Container Sales Group?
Whether you’re a construction firm in need of secure job site storage or a homeowner or looking for extra space a builder, we make it easy to find and buy the right container – whether it’s a New, Used or Specialized Shipping container
Container Sales Group proudly serves:
- Fortune 500 companies
- National construction firms
- Universities and schools
- Fire and police departments
- International Freight Forwarders
- And countless homeowners across the country
We’re a certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBENC) and a proud member of the National Portable Storage Association. Our team was even interviewed on CNBC for our industry leadership.
