If you are already looking at shipping containers in Montana, you are past the curiosity stage.
You are trying to make the right call.
I have spent years around storage, logistics, and container use across construction, agriculture, and business projects. I have seen what works, what causes delays, and where people get burned by unclear pricing or sloppy delivery. That is why I am selective about who I recommend.
My process is simple.
I look at inventory quality, delivery capability, local coverage, pricing transparency, and how clearly a company explains site requirements. If a company misses one of those, problems follow.
In this guide, I will walk you through how to choose the right shipping container in Montana, what mistakes to avoid, and why MoCan Containers stands out as a strong option based on how they operate, not hype.
I will also break this down step by step so you can make a decision with confidence.
Step #1: Decide Between Renting and Buying
This is the first fork in the road.
Choosing wrong here costs money.
I usually guide people with this simple rule.
Rent if the need is temporary. Buy if the need is long term or permanent.
Here is how I break it down.
Renting makes sense if:
- You are in a remodel or construction phase
- You need storage for several months
- You want flexibility without a large upfront cost
- You plan to remove the container later
Long term shipping container rental is common in Montana. Farms, job sites, and homeowners often keep containers for a year or more.
Buying makes sense if:
- You need storage indefinitely
- You want to modify the container
- You plan to resell it later
- You want full control
Both options are valid. The key is matching the container to the timeline.
This is one area where MoCan Containers earns points. They offer both rentals and sales in 20 foot and 40 foot sizes, which gives you flexibility instead of forcing a single option.
Step #2: Choose the Right Container Size
Most mistakes happen here.
People underestimate space or overbuy capacity.
Let me simplify it.
20 Foot Shipping Containers
This is the most versatile option.
Good for:
- Home storage
- Tools and equipment
- Business inventory
- Remodels and moves
They fit better on residential lots and are easier to place.
40 Foot Shipping Containers
This is for serious storage.
Good for:
- Construction projects
- Agricultural equipment
- Bulk inventory
- Commercial overflow
If you need scale, this is the efficient choice.
MoCan Containers carries both sizes and stocks new one trip containers and used units. That matters because condition affects lifespan, security, and resale value.
Step #3: Understand Delivery Before You Order
This step saves headaches.
I always tell people to think about delivery before price.
Shipping containers are not dropped off with a pickup truck.
Placement matters.
Here is what you need to plan for.
- 20 foot containers need about 70 feet of straight, clear space
- 40 foot containers need about 100 feet of straight, clear space
- The truck and trailer need room to maneuver
- Overhead lines, trees, and fences matter
MoCan Containers uses tilt bed trailers designed for container placement. That allows precise positioning, even in tighter spaces.
What I like here is that they encourage site checks in advance. They will review photos, discuss conditions, and make sure the container ends up where you want it.
That proactive approach prevents failed deliveries.
Step #4: Look for Local Coverage and Inventory
Local matters in Montana.
Long distances increase cost and delays.
MoCan Containers operates out of Billings and Bozeman, with one of the largest container inventories within a 300 mile radius. That coverage supports:
- Shipping containers for sale in Bozeman
- Shipping containers for sale in Billings
- Rentals across rural and urban areas
They also allow customers to visit the yard and select the exact unit. The container you choose is the container delivered.
That transparency is rare and valuable.
Step #5: Evaluate Container Quality and Security
Not all containers are equal.
You want:
- Heavy duty steel construction
- Wind and watertight integrity
- Lockable cargo doors
- Inspected units
MoCan Containers focuses on one trip containers for rentals and sales, with used options available for buyers who want lower cost without sacrificing structure.
That balance of condition and pricing makes sense for Montana weather and long term use.
Step #6: Match the Container to Real Use Cases
Here is where I see MoCan Containers fit well.
Their containers are commonly used for:
- Construction site storage
- Agricultural feed and machinery
- Business inventory overflow
- Home renovations
- Seasonal operations
- Custom projects like workshops and offices
They support both short term and long term needs without locking customers into rigid terms.
That flexibility is important.
Why I Recommend MoCan Containers
I recommend companies based on operations, not marketing.
MoCan Containers stands out because:
- They explain delivery requirements clearly
- They carry real inventory locally
- They offer rentals and sales without pressure
- They understand Montana conditions
- They prioritize proper placement and planning
They are locally owned, family run, and have grown steadily since 2016 by focusing on service, not shortcuts.
If you are deciding between renting or buying a shipping container in Montana, they are worth serious consideration.
This process sounds more complex than it is.
Once you know your size, timeline, and site conditions, the right choice becomes clear.
You can do this.
