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About Detroit, MI
Detroit’s economy is deeply rooted in manufacturing and international trade, especially in transportation equipment. Its top trade partners include Canada, Mexico, and key European markets. The Port of Detroit, which is Michigan’s largest inland port handles vital materials like steel, concrete, and metals. The city’s strategic location on the U.S.- Canada border, near the Great Lakes and major rail and highway networks, makes it a critical hub for global trade, particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors.
This connectivity drives consistent import-export activity, fueling demand for shipping containers. As global trade fluctuates, Detroit’s container market reflects broader trends: high activity can lead to shortages and price hikes, while slowdowns may result in surplus inventory and lower costs.
Seasonal agricultural exports and shifts in trade policies also impact used container volumes, price and availability, making Detroit a key indicator of container availability and pricing across the Midwest.
Used Shipping Container Delivered Around Detroit, MI
Imports & Exports (Trade)
Michigan exported over $61 billion in goods, with transportation equipment dominating exports. The region’s proximity to Canada and status as a major auto manufacturing hub makes it particularly sensitive to tariff and trade policy shifts.
Major Employers
Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, University of Michigan, Henry Ford Health System, Rocket Companies, Detroit Public Schools, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, City of Detroit, Ilitch Holdings, DTE Energy, and major health systems.
Intermodal System
- Detroit is a vital intermodal hub, located on the Great Lakes and bordering Canada, serving as a key freight gateway. The region includes multiple rail intermodal terminals (operated by CSX, Norfolk Southern, CN, CP) that transfer containers between rail and truck transport.
- Major highway corridors and Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) support cargo movement by road and air.
Seasonality of Crops that Affect Container Inventory
- Asparagus, strawberries, cherries, blackberries, blueberries, sweet corn, cucumbers, tomatoes, zucchini, and pumpkins throughout the area.
- Year-round produce such as carrots, potatoes, onions, winter squash, garlic, leeks, and root vegetables like turnips and parsnips.
What We Love About Detroit, MI
The Port of Detroit is found along the west side of the Detroit River and is the largest inland port in the state of Michigan. Handling the export and movement of steel, concrete, and metals, the port also is the mooring city for American Queen Voyages and Viking Cruises.
Revered for its Motown sound, rock music, world-class museums, automobile culture, sports teams, arts, and theatres, this city is cool...just a little tough in the winter months.
Nothing makes us happier than seeing containers repurposed for creative projects and so we have to brag a little about The Detroit Shipping Co. This 10,000-square-foot art gallery, beer garden, and event space was constructed using 21 refurbished shipping containers. “The goal was to take something seasoned and well-traveled and give it a new life...a bit of a metaphor for the city.” The structure has nineteen 40' containers and three 20' containers. Bravo Detroit Shipping Co. We dig your style and can’t wait to visit Jonathan Hartzell, James Therkalsen, and lead architect Dominic Walbridge!