Shipping containers give automotive and repair shops fast, reliable space for storage and operations support without building additions or renting expensive offsite warehouses. Containers are steel, weather-resistant, and built for outdoor placement, making them a practical solution for back-lot storage, overflow inventory, and shop expansion projects.

As a nationwide wholesaler, Container Sales Group supplies New, Used, and Specialty shipping containers across the United States.  We help auto and repair businesses choose the right container based on shop workflow, security needs, site access, and long-term plans with transparent grading and coordinated delivery.

Shipping Container Uses for 
Automotive & Repair Shops

40 ft. container modified as Storage for automotive parts and supplies

Car Dealership
Parts Storage

automotive mobile workspace using shipping containers

Mobile Mechanic Service Bays

automotive showroom renovations with shipping containers

Showroom Renovations

car tire storage in a shipping container for dealerships

Tire Storage & Seasonal Inventory

Trusted By

We Sell New and Used Shipping Containers to the Automotive Industry

Read Our Car Dealership Reviews

We purchased a container from the Container Sales Group for holiday light storage. The process was easy and went smoothly. Their pricing is competitive, and the delivery driver was friendly and placed it right where it needed to go. We will purchase from them again if we need more storage.

Robert Pechous

Chicago, IL

Lyn was great to work with. She went over all of the aspects of purchasing a container and followed through. She even pointed out things to watch for when dealing with competitors. Did I mention that she also had the best prices? My next container will certainly be through Lyn at Container Sales Group!

Chuck Nejdl

Chicago, IL

How Shipping Containers Solve Common Automotive Challenges

Lack of Secure Storage for
Tools, Parts & Equipment

Automotive shops often run out of room for diagnostic tools, parts, fluids, tires, and specialty equipment. Shipping containers provide theft-resistant, weather-tight storage that keeps high-value items protected and organized on-site.


Limited Shop Space for
Repairs & Overflow Work

Busy repair shops and automotive centers frequently need additional service bays or temporary workspace. Containers serve as overflow garages, mobile mechanic bays, and quick-setup repair stations, giving shops flexible space without construction.


Seasonal Tire & Inventory
Management Issues

Tire shops, dealerships, and repair centers struggle to store bulky seasonal tires or surplus inventory. Containers offer clean, dry, ground-level storage that keeps tires and parts accessible but out of the main service area.


Exposure to Weather &
Theft on Outdoor Lots

Tools, equipment, and parts stored outside are vulnerable to theft and weather damage. Shipping containers add secure, lockable, all-steel protection for equipment, detailing supplies, parts, and job-site assets.


Rising Costs of Expanding or Building Additional Space

Permanent building expansions are expensive. Shipping containers offer a cost-effective alternative for expanding storage or workspace without construction delays or permitting headaches.


From Our Blog

Designing Your Automotive Shop with Shipping Containers: Tips and Ideas

Designing an automotive shop with shipping containers offers a smart, cost-effective way to expand workspace, store tools, manage parts, and create mobile repair bays. This blog explores practical layout ideas, modification tips, and real examples of how containers can be transformed into service bays, tire storage units, detailing areas, parts rooms, and secure tool storage. Whether you’re a repair shop, mobile mechanic, or dealership, you’ll learn how shipping containers help optimize workflow, reduce clutter, and create flexible space without the cost of new construction.

Read the full guide for layout ideas, modification options, and inspiration.

Why Car Dealerships Choose
Container Sales Group

Wholesaler of New & Used Shipping Containers Throughout the United States

  • Affordable Pricing
  • Fast delivery in 3-5 days
  • Volume Discounts
  • Water/Wind Tight Guarantee
  • Professional, On-Time Delivery
  • 30+ Years of Experience

Customer Reviews

Purchasing Questions

What size container is best for an auto repair shop?

Most shops choose 20 ft or 40 ft. Tire programs often prefer 40 ft High Cube for extra space and height. Also, specialty New/one trip Open Side & Doors on both ends (tunnel) containers.

What condition should I buy—new or used?

For most shops, used WWT is a great value for secure storage. For clean appearance and long life, New / One-Trip is often preferred.

Are containers secure enough for tools?

Yes. Steel construction plus lockboxes can provide excellent security for high-value tools and equipment.

Will parts rust or get moisture damage inside a container?

Moisture can happen in some climates. Ventilation and good storage practices help reduce condensation and humidity. Check our Container Sales Group ACCESSORY page on the website.

Delivery Questions

What is the delivery process?

Once we receive payment on your invoice to purchase a container and agree on a delivery date. The truck driver will call the contact you provided us once the container is loaded on the truck to advise he is on his way to your location.

How much does it cost to deliver a container?

Delivery depends on the distance of your location from where we store our containers. Call our office at 708 627-2725 and we will provide you with a delivery quote.

How much space is required for delivery?

Containers are typically delivered with a tilt-bed roll off truck. The driver tilts the bed up and the container slowly slides off onto the ground as the driver then pulls out from under the container. For a 20ft long storage container, you will need about 75ft of straight line clearance. For a 40ft long storage container, the truck and trailer will need about 110ft of straight line clearance.

What kind of site preparation is needed?

We will deliver on cement, pavement, asphalt, gravel, grass & dirt, provided the surface is not too soft. However, we strongly recommend that you choose a site that is as level as possible. If the storage container is not level, the container doors may be hard to open and close. The surface area where you place your container should also have adequate drainage to avoid sinking.

Can I arrange my own transport?

Yes, there is no fee to load the container on your delivery truck.

Can the storage container be placed on railroad ties/landscape timbers?

Yes, railroad ties/landscape timber can be placed under the container to lift it up. The truck driver can help you at time of delivery. Please note, we do not provide the railroad ties/landscape timbers.

Do I need a permit to place the container on my property?

Not typically. Because the unit is considered a temporary structure, most zoning regulations do not require a permit. Contact your local municipality to find out the specific requirements for your area.

Can you move or relocate my container?

Yes, in some locations we can move or relocate your container. Please give our office a call at 708 627-2725 to discuss further.

Can you deliver on the weekends?

Container deliveries are typically Monday thru Friday. But we do work with some trucking companies who will deliver on the weekend for an extra fee.

Do I have to be present for the delivery?

Yes, an authorized representative must be there for delivery.

How long will delivery take, once I order a container?

We strive to deliver storage containers to fit your needs. Generally, delivery can take place in 3 to 5 days business days from time of order.

What if container is not what I expected?

All used containers may have some exterior rust, dings, dents & maybe patches but nothing so significant that affects the structural aspect of the container. At Container Sales Group, we offer a water/wind tight guarantee at the time of delivery or pick-up. We ask our customers to thoroughly inspect the container at the time of delivery or pick-up to ensure it is water/wind tight. If there are any issues, we will work with the customer to replace the container, refund their money or assist in fixing the container.

Do I need a permit to place a container on farmland?

In most rural and agricultural zones in the midwest and throughout the country, shipping containers used for storage or farm operations typically do not require a building permit, since they’re considered temporary or movable structures. However, requirements can vary by county or township, especially if you plan to use the container for long-term storage, conversion, or as part of a permanent facility. It’s always best to check with your local zoning or building department to confirm setback rules and placement guidelines before delivery.

What site prep is required for rural delivery?

To ensure a smooth delivery, make sure your site is:

  • Level, solid, and free of obstacles like tree limbs or uneven ground.
  • Large enough for a tilt-bed or flatbed truck to safely access and unload the container.
  • Covered with crushed stone, gravel, or compacted soil for drainage and stability.
  • If you’re unsure, our team can help you determine whether your site is ready and advise on the best delivery method for your location and equipment.

Ready to expand your automotive storage?
Call 888-320-5938 or request a quote