Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, is set to gain what is effectively its first ocean-served container terminal as Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor prepares to launch a new sea cargo container facility later this year. Located in Portage, Indiana, about 20 miles from Chicago, the terminal will become the only all-water container gateway serving the Greater Chicago market through the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.
The development is part of a $100 million expansion at Burns Harbor, marking the port’s largest investment since its opening in 1970. The broader project includes new dock and rail infrastructure, while efforts are also underway to reopen one of the largest grain export facilities on the Great Lakes.
In 2024, US Customs and Border Protection approved the container terminal, paving the way for a fully staffed cargo examination facility. Ports of Indiana is supplying the customs office, inspection equipment, radiation portal monitors, and security infrastructure needed to support international container operations.
The new terminal will be located within a port that offers 9,000 feet of dock space, 10 Seaway berths, and full-time tug assistance. Its container operation is expected to handle around 15 lifts per hour and will feature a Logistec-managed container system, 24-hour security, gated entry, and night-vision camera surveillance. According to the port, the facility will provide direct connections with Europe, transshipment options through Canadian ports, and barge access to the Gulf. A trial shipment is expected before the end of the year.
The commercial opportunity is significant. Chicago is the largest intermodal container market in North America, yet all containers currently reach the region by rail or truck. Burns Harbor believes that an all-water service could reduce transit times by up to 10 days on certain European shipments into the market, while also easing congestion and lowering emissions.