Joliet
Learn more about shipping freight to and from Joliet, including information on the city's major ports, terminals, and other freight shipping services, and discover the most competitive freight shipping rates available. FreightCenter provides top solutions for all your logistics needs.
Shipping freight to or from Joliet is a breeze with FreightCenter. We make navigating the city’s freight landscape easy by offering instant quotes from top carriers, competitive rates, and a straightforward booking process. Whether you’re moving intermodal, LTL, truckload, or rail freight, our extensive network and expert support ensure your cargo moves smoothly and affordably. No matter your shipping needs in Joliet, FreightCenter delivers tailored solutions to keep your business running efficiently.
Joliet Freight Shipping
Joliet, Illinois, is a key city in the Midwest and serves as an essential logistics hub for both regional and national supply chains. Situated strategically near Chicago, the nation's third-largest city, Joliet benefits from robust transportation infrastructure, making it a central player in the movement of goods across the U.S. and beyond.
One of the city's most significant logistics assets is the Des Plaines River, which plays a vital role in waterborne transportation. Joliet is also home to the CenterPoint Intermodal Center, one of the largest inland port complexes in the country. This facility supports efficient rail and trucking operations, facilitating the movement of goods to and from major markets across North America.
Joliet's rail infrastructure is another key advantage. The city’s rail lines connect it to the major freight corridors of the U.S., ensuring smooth access to supply chains. The city is also conveniently located near O'Hare International Airport, providing air cargo connections to global markets. Additionally, the city's road network includes major highways like Interstates 55 and 80, offering direct access to key distribution points across the U.S.
With its diverse logistics infrastructure and prime location near Chicago, Joliet continues to drive economic growth and plays an important role in the logistics industry, positioning itself as a vital hub for freight movement in the U.S.
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Automobiles – Manufacturing and assembly plants in the region require the transportation of finished vehicles and automotive parts.
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Consumer Goods – A wide range of consumer products, including electronics, clothing, and household items, are transported through Joliet.
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Construction Materials – Steel, lumber, cement, and other construction materials are frequently moved in and out for ongoing construction projects in the region.
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Chemicals – Including industrial chemicals, cleaning agents, and other liquid or bulk chemical products.
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Food and Beverages – Fresh produce, packaged goods, and refrigerated products are common freight handled by Joliet’s logistics network.
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Furniture – Both raw materials for furniture manufacturing and finished furniture products are shipped through the city.
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Electronics – High-tech devices, computer parts, and consumer electronics are often transported via rail and road.
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Machinery and Equipment – Heavy machinery, industrial equipment, and spare parts for manufacturing facilities.
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Textiles – Raw and finished textile products, including fabrics, garments, and other textile-based goods.
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Metals and Steel – A significant amount of raw and processed metals, including steel, aluminum, and other alloys.
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Pharmaceuticals – Medical supplies, drugs, and equipment are critical freight types in Joliet’s logistics network.
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Paper and Packaging – Paper products, cardboard, and other materials used for packaging.
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Tires and Rubber Products – Tires and rubber components, often related to automotive manufacturing or maintenance.
Joliet, IL, is a key transportation hub for a diverse range of freight, though much of the area’s freight is still dominated by industrial goods like chemicals, automotive parts, and construction materials. While the city’s history was rooted in heavy manufacturing and rail operations, Joliet has diversified over time, now handling a variety of goods across multiple industries. Despite this diversification, products related to the automotive and construction sectors remain some of the primary commodities flowing in and out of the city.
Joliet’s logistics network supports imports and exports to and from major international markets, including Europe, Asia, South America, and Canada. This has solidified Joliet’s role as a vital economic center in the Midwest. The area’s proximity to Chicago and its strategic location along major rail lines and highways make it an attractive location for numerous companies, including many regional offices and distribution centers for Fortune 500 companies. Many of these companies are located near key transportation hubs, such as the CenterPoint Intermodal Center and major rail yards, where the bulk of Joliet’s freight movement occurs.
Listed below are companies headquartered in Joliet:
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Caterpillar Inc. – A leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, engines, and industrial gas turbines.
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Hawthorne Machinery Co. – A company specializing in the sale and servicing of heavy machinery, with a strong presence in the construction and industrial sectors.
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USF Holland – A regional trucking company providing freight transportation services across the U.S. through both ground and intermodal shipping.
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Plastic Packaging Technologies – A manufacturer of custom plastic packaging solutions for a variety of industries, including food and beverage, consumer goods, and healthcare.
These companies are crucial to driving the city’s economy, as most are involved in developing and distributing major imports and exports. As the city continues to embrace new infrastructures and industries, its status as a logistics powerhouse will also continue to rise.
Freight Shipping Rates To Any City
Shipping from city to city can be challenging. But it doesn’t have to be if you work with FreightCenter. We’re a 3PL dedicated to enhancing your shipping experience. We’ll find reputable carriers in your metropolitan area from our extensive network of over 50 shipping companies.
No matter where your freight is shipping to or from, Enjoy reliable, cost-effective freight services with easy booking and tracking tools. FreightCenter knows how to ship freight right!
Call us at (800) 716-7608, or use our free online quote tool to find and compare rates to and from any city in North America!
FreightCenter’s vast network of carriers includes companies servicing the Joliet metro area. We connect customers to reputable trucking carriers, finding the right one for your shipping needs. Some of FreightCenter’s partnered freight shipping companies include:
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ABF Freight
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ArcBest
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Bolt Express
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Central Transport
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CRST
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Daylight Transport
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Dayton Freight Lines
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Estes Express Lines
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Estes Forwarding Worldwide
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FedEx Freight
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Forward Air
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Frontline Freight
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HNRY Logistics
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Holland
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Keyboard Motorcycle
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Lynden
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Old Dominion
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Panther Premium Logistics
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Pilot Freight
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Pitt Ohio
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R+L Carriers
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Roadrunner Transportation Systems
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SAIA
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TForce Freight
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UPack
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UPS Freight (now TForce Freight)
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XPO Logistics
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Xpress Global Systems
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Yellow Freight
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YRC Freight
Note: FreightCenter adds and removes carrier partners from time to time. This list may not be current. Ask your FreightCenter agent for assistance.
Joliet’s Major Highways and Tollways
- I-55 (Stevenson Expressway)
- I-80 (Jane Addams Memorial Tollway)
- I-355 (Veterans Memorial Tollway)
- I-294 (Tri-State Tollway)
- US 30 (Lincoln Highway)
- US 45 (North/South Frontage Road)
These highways connect Joliet to major cities like Chicago, St. Louis, and Detroit, facilitating the movement of goods across the region.
Joliet’s Major Ports, Terminals, and Warehouses
While Joliet does not have a seaport like some other cities, it serves as a vital intermodal hub with significant rail and trucking infrastructure. Joliet is home to the CenterPoint Intermodal Center, one of the largest inland port complexes in the U.S., which connects the city to national and international markets.
Key terminals and facilities in the area include:
- CenterPoint Intermodal Center (handles rail and truck freight)
- Joliet Logistics Park (serves as a major hub for logistics and warehouse operations)
- Railyard facilities (such as Union Pacific and BNSF rail terminals)
In addition to these intermodal hubs, Joliet has a variety of warehousing and distribution centers, including:
- NFI Distribution Center (large warehouse for retail and industrial goods)
- DHL Supply Chain Warehouse (offers logistics and storage solutions)
Joliet Railroads
Joliet is served by several key rail yards:
- Union Pacific Joliet Intermodal Terminal (connects to major freight corridors)
- BNSF Joliet Yard (handles a wide range of freight types)
- Canadian National Joliet Yard (supports cross-border rail traffic)
These rail yards are crucial for connecting Joliet to major domestic and international markets.
Joliet Airports and Air Cargo
While Joliet does not have a major commercial airport, it benefits from its proximity to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), which is located about 40 miles away. O’Hare serves as a key air cargo hub, handling a variety of time-sensitive and specialized shipments, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, and automotive parts. Additionally, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) supports air freight operations, especially for less-than-truckload (LTL) cargo.
Cost to Ship Freight to Joliet
When shipping to and from Joliet, several factors influence the cost of freight:
- Type, size, and weight: Heavier and bulkier freight, like construction equipment, will incur higher shipping costs. Joliet’s diverse freight options range from standard LTL to expedited and temperature-controlled services.
- Seasonal changes and demand: Shipping rates fluctuate during peak seasons, such as the holidays or extreme weather events, which impact logistics costs.
- Shipping distance: The farther the freight has to travel, the higher the cost. Popular routes from Joliet include shipments to and from major cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York.
- Transportation mode: Trucking is the most common mode of transportation for Joliet freight, but rail or air shipping may be necessary depending on the type of cargo. Trucking is typically more cost-effective but slower compared to air or rail.
- Accessorial charges: Additional services like liftgate requirements, residential delivery, or restricted access areas can raise shipping prices. Joliet’s expansive carrier network offers a variety of services to meet specific needs.
Joliet’s strategic location, coupled with its extensive transportation infrastructure, enables competitive rates and efficient shipping options for a wide range of freight.
Why Choose Joliet for Your Shipping Needs?
Shipping to and from Joliet offers several distinct advantages for businesses:
- Gateway to the Midwest and beyond: Joliet’s strategic location along major highways and railroads and proximity to Chicago makes it a prime gateway for freight to and from national and international markets.
- High volume, lower costs: Joliet’s proximity to Chicago allows for economies of scale, which often results in more competitive rates for freight transport, especially for intermodal shipping.
- Drayage and intermodal options: Joliet’s CenterPoint Intermodal Center and other facilities offer reliable drayage services, facilitating smooth transfers of containers from rail to truck.
How to Ship Freight to Joliet
To ship freight to Joliet, ensure you have accurate details about your shipment, including weight, dimensions, and packaging. The freight will pass through various terminals, so consider crating fragile items for additional protection. You can compare Joliet freight rates using a freight quote tool and find the best carrier for your needs. Be sure to check for any additional fees or special requirements related to your shipment.
With its robust logistics infrastructure and strategic location, Joliet remains a vital player in the U.S. transportation network, offering efficient and cost-effective shipping solutions for businesses.
Get the Best Joliet Freight Rates Today
To find the most competitive rates for shipping freight to or from Joliet, use our online freight quote tool. Instantly compare rates from over 50 carriers and choose the best option for your needs. Alternatively, call 800.716.7608 to speak with one of our freight experts and receive a custom quote tailored to your shipment.
Make Joliet your next shipping destination and experience reliable, cost-effective freight services from a city that’s a leader in logistics and transportation.
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