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Find the Best 3PL Fulfillment Centers and Warehouse Services in Illinois

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Find the Best 3PL Fulfillment Centers and Warehouse Services in Illinois
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✍️ Written by: Will Schneider 🖊️ Edited by: Alyssa Ochs
× We evaluate warehousing providers using research, data, and direct industry feedback, never paid placements or commissions. Other than recognizing featured suppliers by name for outstanding achievement, company names are only disclosed after matches are made, ensuring the protection of confidential and proprietary information from content misuse and competitor access. Learn how we maintain objectivity.

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Complete Logistics Solutions Across All Transportation Modes with Nationwide Coverage

Complete Logistics Solutions Across All Transportation Modes with Nationwide Coverage
Address: Parkville, MO
Lead Types: Warehousing, Fulfillment, Shipping, Pick and Pack, 3PL Services, Ecommerce Fulfillment
Year Established: 2000
Deals Closed: 1
Number of Reviews: 3

Illinois offers several strategic cities for warehousing, each providing distinct advantages based on transportation and industry needs.

  • Aurora: Aurora, west of Chicago, offers access to I-88 and is well-connected to the Chicago transportation network. With a growing industrial base, Aurora provides a balance of affordability and accessibility, making it a practical option for regional distribution and businesses in manufacturing and logistics.
  • Chicago: As one of the largest logistics hubs in the U.S., Chicago provides direct access to major highways, extensive rail networks, and O’Hare International Airport. Its central location is ideal for businesses needing efficient national and international distribution. Chicago’s infrastructure supports various industries, including manufacturing, retail, and e-commerce, making it a prime choice for warehousing.
  • Elgin: Situated along I-90 northwest of Chicago, Elgin offers easy access to major transport routes while providing cost-effective warehouse options. Its location makes it ideal for businesses that need efficient regional and national distribution without the higher costs associated with Chicago.
  • Joliet: Located southwest of Chicago, Joliet benefits from proximity to I-80 and I-55, as well as key rail routes. Joliet is home to several large distribution centers and offers more affordable warehousing options compared to Chicago, making it suitable for companies looking for cost-effective space close to major transport routes.

Each of these cities and other suburbs such as Addison, Elk Grove Village, Naperville, and Schaumburg, offers practical benefits, from transportation links to cost-effective alternatives, making them solid choices for businesses seeking warehousing in Illinois.

Warehouse Management Options in Illinois

Warehouse Management OptionDescriptionPros and ConsEstimated Cost Range
Renting Warehouse Space and Managing In-HouseIdeal for companies prioritizing control over warehouse operations. This approach involves renting or leasing warehouse space, requiring full responsibility for operations, from receiving and storage to fulfillment and shipping.Pros: Complete control over warehousing, fulfillment, and shipping; no competition with other customers; ability to customize logistics.

Cons: Fixed lease costs with multi-year commitments, higher overhead; responsible for hiring, training, and managing staff; requires significant space (1,500-2,000+ sq ft).
$3,000-$10,000+/month depending on location and size.
Using Co-Warehousing Space and Managing In-HouseCo-warehousing offers a more flexible lease with shared facilities. Companies lease smaller, locked spaces within a larger warehouse, managing their operations with access to common resources like docks and equipment.Pros: Lower costs compared to traditional leasing; flexible lease terms (3-6 months); smaller space requirements (250+ sq ft); access to shared facilities.

Cons: Still requires managing in-house operations and staffing; smaller spaces may limit growth potential; operational management responsibilities remain.
$1,000-$5,000/month depending on space and location.
Using Pallet Storage Warehouse or Overflow WarehouseSuited for companies needing additional storage or managing overflow. This hybrid approach involves storing products on pallets, which the 3PL handles for storage, retrieval, or direct shipping.Pros: Cost-effective, pay only for space used; maintain control over fulfillment; ideal for overflow or bulk storage needs.

Cons: Not suitable for complex environments needing picking and packing; limited availability of 3PLs willing to handle this approach; responsibility for in-house fulfillment.
$15-$25/pallet per month.
Using Fully Outsourced 3PL Company or Fulfillment CenterFully outsourced solution where a 3PL handles all logistics operations, including receiving, storage, fulfillment, shipping, and returns, freeing businesses from day-to-day management.Pros: Reduced costs (storage, shipping, labor); simplified logistics; focus on core business activities; variable costs, pay only for what you use.

Cons: Loss of direct control over operations; adherence to 3PL’s guidelines; reduced flexibility and customization; quality depends on the 3PL’s standards.
$2-$5/order; $15-$25/pallet per month; plus other fees for receiving, returns, and account management.

How to Find 3PL Fulfillment and Warehousing Services in Illinois

To find 3PL fulfillment and warehousing services in Illinois, start by searching online listings or working with local brokers. Focus on providers with a proven track record in inventory management and order tracking. Check customer reviews to assess reliability, and compare options based on how well they meet your needs and fit within your budget.

At WarehousingAndFulfillment.com, we simplify this process by connecting you with trusted providers for warehousing, leasing, co-warehousing, and 3PL services. Just fill out a brief form to get personalized recommendations that suit your business.

What to Look for in Illinois 3PL and Warehouse Providers

When selecting a 3PL or warehouse provider in Illinois, businesses should focus on several key factors:

  • Lease Terms: Illinois offers various warehouse and co-warehouse lease options, ranging from short-term to long-term agreements. Companies with fluctuating inventory or seasonal needs may benefit from flexible terms, ensuring they don’t overcommit to unnecessary space. Co-warehousing can also provide scalable options as inventory demands change. And third party warehousing and fulfillment offers a fully outsourced solution.
  • Costs: In addition to warehouse rent, businesses should consider costs like maintenance, utilities, and shipping fees. On the other hand, outsourcing with a 3PL requires consideration for receiving, storage, fulfillment (pick and pack), and shipping fees. Understanding the full cost picture allows for better negotiation and ensures affordability, especially in higher-demand areas like Chicago.
  • Location and Security: Proximity to major transportation routes is crucial in Illinois, with cities like Chicago and Joliet offering easy access to highways, rail, and air transport. Security is equally important, so assess the facility’s measures, such as surveillance, controlled access, and secure loading zones.
  • Technology Integration: The provider’s technology should work smoothly with your existing systems. Look for real-time inventory tracking, automated order processing, and data analytics to improve efficiency and visibility in your supply chain.
  • Compliance Standards: Verify that the warehouse meets any specific requirements for your industry, especially if you’re handling sensitive items like pharmaceuticals or perishables. Check for necessary certifications and whether climate-controlled storage is available if needed.

Focusing on these factors—lease flexibility, cost, location, security, technology, and compliance—will help businesses choose the right 3PL provider in Illinois.

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Advantages of Warehousing in Illinois

Warehousing in Illinois provides several clear advantages, making it a strategic choice for businesses:

  • Proximity to Major Markets: Illinois, particularly the Chicago area, offers easy access to major markets across the U.S. Chicago is a transportation hub with key highways, extensive rail networks, and access to international shipping via O’Hare Airport and the Great Lakes. This makes Illinois well-suited for both regional and national distribution.
  • Diverse Warehousing Options: The state has a wide variety of warehousing options, from smaller spaces to large distribution centers. Cities like Joliet and Aurora provide more cost-effective solutions while maintaining access to Chicago’s transportation network. Co-warehousing is also available for businesses needing flexible, scalable space.
  • Tax Incentives: Although Illinois has a relatively high tax burden, there are specific tax incentives for warehousing and logistics businesses. These include credits for job creation and investments, especially in designated enterprise zones.
  • Growing E-commerce and Logistics Infrastructure: With the rise of e-commerce, Illinois has seen growth in its logistics sector. Chicago and surrounding areas offer fulfillment centers equipped with advanced 3PL services, including real-time inventory tracking and automated order processing, making Illinois an important hub for e-commerce operations.
  • Strong Transportation Network: Illinois boasts a robust transportation infrastructure with access to major highways, railroads, and air routes. This extensive network supports efficient movement of goods, both domestically and internationally, and is a key factor in the state’s logistics capabilities.

These factors—central location, diverse warehousing options, tax benefits, advanced logistics infrastructure, and a strong transportation network—make Illinois a competitive choice for warehousing and 3PL services.

Disadvantages of Warehousing in Illinois

Warehousing in Illinois comes with several challenges that businesses should be aware of:

  • High Costs in Key Areas: Warehousing in high-demand areas like Chicago can be expensive due to limited space and strong competition. Planning ahead is crucial to securing affordable options, especially near transportation hubs.
  • Traffic Congestion: Chicago’s heavy traffic can cause delays in deliveries and longer transit times. This congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact distribution schedules, so businesses should factor this into their logistics planning.
  • Weather Risks: Harsh winters in Illinois, with snow and ice, can disrupt operations and slow down deliveries. Businesses need to account for potential weather-related interruptions, especially during severe winter storms.
  • Climate Control Needs: Illinois’ extreme temperature swings—hot summers and cold winters—make climate-controlled warehousing necessary for sensitive goods like perishables and electronics. Maintaining stable storage conditions can increase operational costs.
  • Logistical Challenges in Rural Areas: While urban centers like Chicago have strong transportation networks, rural parts of Illinois can present logistical hurdles. Deliveries to remote locations may take longer and come with higher transportation costs due to fewer infrastructure options.

By considering these factors—costs, traffic, weather, climate control, and rural logistics—businesses can better plan their warehousing strategy in Illinois.

Average Warehouse Storage & Fulfillment Costs in Illinois

Illinois is an affordable option from a fulfillment pricing perspective and tends to run slightly lower than the national average. Below are some of the fees and prices in Illinois, as compared to the U.S. national average

Pricing TypeIllinoisNational Average
B2C Order Fulfillment Fee Per Single Item Order$3.12$3.25
B2B Order Fulfillment Fee Per Single Item Order$4.79$4.85
Pallet storage fee per pallet per month$19.75$20.17

Fulfillment Company Data in Illinois

If you’re planning on bringing your business to Illinois, there are many factors to consider. To help with your decision, we’ve provided some key data so that you can better know if Illinois is a good fit to locate your third-party warehousing and fulfillment services.

InformationData
Population12.58 million (2022)
Warehouses in State2440
Amazon Warehouses in State59
Average Warehouse Labor Rate$22.02/hr
Sales Tax Rate6.25%
Property Tax Rate2.07%
Personal Tax Rate4.95%
Corporate Tax Rate9.25%

It’s also important to look at the top businesses in the state of Illinois. Doing so can help you understand what industries thrive in the state, what competition might you encounter, or whether your business could cater to an untapped niche. Here are the top 10 businesses in the state of Illinois:

Business NameNumber of Employees
Allegiance Properties562,000 employees
City Garden Waldorf School228,000 employees
Walgreens210,000 employees
McDonald’s210,000 employees
ArcelorMittal209,000 employees
Boeing142,000 employees
Power Construction132,000 employees
Hyatt Hotels127,000 employees
Alliance Boots120,000 employees
Abbott109,000 employees

Connect with Trusted Warehouse Services in Illinois

Don’t rely on search rankings alone—many top listings are paid placements, not the best options. Our curated network, built on unbiased reviews since 2005, connects you with reliable warehouse services in Illinois. Fill out our form or call us to get your tailored matches today.

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author avatar
Will Schneider President

Will Schneider is the Co-Founder and President of WarehousingAndFulfillment.com. He’s responsible for the strategic vision of the company. Previously, he served CEO of RMC Fulfillment and Clear Stream Fulfillment within the 3PL industry, gaining invaluable experience that helps the company best assist companies looking to outsource their fulfillment. In addition, Will served in executive management in the lead generation industry while at NetQuote, a leading lead generation company in the insurance vertical. See full bio

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WarehousingAndFulfillment.com’s content, including ratings and recommendations, is curated by a team of dedicated warehousing experts with decades of experience in the logistics industry. Each writer and editor adheres to WarehousingAndFulfillment.com’s strict editorial and evaluation guidelines. Our work has been featured in authoritative industry publications such as Information Week, Bplans, Supply & Demand Chain Executive, Chain Store Age, Parcel Industry, Manufacturing Digital, and The Association for Supply Chain Management. Since 2005, our experience in matching businesses with warehouse solutions and vetting warehouse providers includes:

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