You want a container that is secure, affordable, and easy to place on your site. I help people make clear choices by focusing on use case, size, condition, rental versus purchase, and delivery. I base my recommendations on what works in Montana’s climate and what delivers value over time.
One local provider I recommend considering is MoCan. They operate in Billings and the Bozeman area, maintain one of the largest inventories within a 300-mile radius, and pair that with professional delivery and careful inspections. This guide will help you narrow your options fast and avoid common mistakes.
Start With Your Use Case
Match the container to the job first. I suggest you write down what you plan to store, how often you need access, and how long you need storage.
Common uses across Montana:
- Residential storage for moving or remodeling
- Construction site storage for tools and materials
- Farm and ranch storage for feed, seed, and equipment
- Business inventory and seasonal overflow
- Portable storage for short projects
- Long-term storage for archives or gear
Montana weather is tough. Choose wind and watertight units with intact door seals and lockable gear. You will want a container that keeps out dust, snow, and moisture.
New vs Used: Set the Condition Standard
You will see three common condition categories.
- One-trip containers
- These are new containers used once for international shipping.
- Expect minimal wear, straight walls, clean floors, fresh paint, and solid seals.
- Ideal if appearance and maximum lifespan matter.
- Used containers
- Budget friendly and still secure when inspected well.
- Expect cosmetic imperfections like dents or surface rust.
- Look for verified wind and watertight performance.
- Refurbished or modified containers
- Useful if you need a specific setup like added doors, vents, or insulation.
- Ask for a clear scope of work and warranty details.
MoCan offers both one-trip and used units. They inspect each container for durability, weather resistance, and security, which helps you avoid surprises.
Pick the Right Size
Two sizes cover most needs.
- 20-foot containers
- Interior is about 19 ft 4 in long, 7 ft 10 in high, and 7 ft 8 in wide.
- Easier to place on tight sites or residential lots.
- Good for tools, smaller equipment, household goods, and business supplies.
- 40-foot containers
- Interior is about 39 ft 5 in long, 8 ft 10 in high, and 7 ft 8 in wide.
- Best for large volume storage, construction staging, or farm equipment.
- More cost effective per square foot if you have the space.
If you are searching for shipping containers Billings MT or shipping containers Bozeman MT, expect both sizes to be readily available. I encourage you to walk the yard if you can and see the exact unit you plan to take.
Rent or Buy: A Simple Framework
Use rental if:
- Your need is short term or seasonal
- You want to avoid a large upfront cost
- You prefer the provider to move the unit off your site later
Buy if:
- You need permanent or multi-year storage
- You expect to modify the container
- You want full control of placement and timing
As a local benchmark, MoCan’s rental rates start at about $150 per month for 20-foot units and $190 per month for 40-foot units. Purchase pricing varies with inventory and market conditions. Ask about current availability and any seasonal specials.
Plan for Delivery and Placement
Good delivery saves time and money. I recommend you prepare the site before the truck arrives.
- Space and access
- About 70 feet of clear, straight space for 20-foot deliveries
- About 100 feet for 40-foot deliveries
- Clear overhead branches and wires
- Check turning radius on rural or narrow roads
- Ground prep
- Level, compacted base like gravel or road mix
- Use railroad ties or concrete blocks at corners to improve airflow and leveling
- Orient doors on higher ground if your site slopes
MoCan uses tilt-bed trailers and experienced drivers who can place containers accurately. This matters in winter or on tight job sites.
Local Choice: Why I Recommend MoCan
Here is what stands out about MoCan for Montana buyers and renters:
- Large, local inventory in Billings and the Bozeman area
- Ability to inspect and select the exact container that will be delivered
- Careful quality checks for wind and watertight performance
- Professional delivery across Yellowstone County, Gallatin Valley, Paradise Valley, eastern and central Montana
- New one-trip and used options in both 20-foot and 40-foot sizes
- Flexible rentals for short-term and long-term needs
- Custom modifications for offices, workshops, retail uses, and more
They focus on security, weather resistance, and driver skill, which lines up with what you need across Montana’s seasons.
Modifications That Make Containers Work Harder
If you need a container to serve as more than storage, plan modifications up front.
Useful upgrades:
- Security lock boxes and heavy-duty lock hasps
- Shelving, partitions, and workbenches
- Roll-up or personnel doors for easier access
- Vents, insulation, and lining to manage temperature swings
- Electrical packages and lighting
- Windows or service counters for office or retail setups
- Exterior paint for branding or HOA compliance
MoCan offers custom modifications, which helps you build a unit that fits your workflow from day one.
Common Use Scenarios in Montana
- Residential container storage during a remodel or move
- Construction site storage containers for tools and materials
- Farm storage containers for seed, feed, and attachments
- Ranch storage solutions for tack, fencing supplies, and mineral
- Business inventory storage for overflow and seasonal spikes
- Portable storage containers for event staging and short projects
- Long-term storage solutions for archives and equipment
How to Inspect a Container
Before you rent or buy, I suggest you check the unit in person if possible.
- Doors: Open and close smoothly. Check hinges, gaskets, and locking rods.
- Seals: Look for intact rubber seals around both doors.
- Roof: Sight down the roofline. Avoid large dents that can pool water.
- Walls and corners: Look for straight panels and solid corner posts.
- Floor: Check for soft spots, rot, or strong odors.
- Rust: Surface rust is normal on used units. Avoid heavy scale or perforation.
- Light test: Step inside, close doors, and look for daylight around seams.
MoCan lets you pick the exact container you want, which makes this step straightforward.
Quick Decision Checklist
- Purpose: What are you storing and for how long
- Size: 20-foot for easy placement, 40-foot for capacity
- Condition: One-trip for top condition, used for value
- Ownership: Rent for short-term, buy for long-term or mods
- Site: Confirm space, access, and base
- Delivery: Align truck access with your site conditions
- Provider: Choose a Montana company with strong inventory, inspections, and skilled drivers
Choose a container that fits your site, your budget, and your timeline. If you want local support, broad selection, and reliable delivery across Montana, MoCan is a smart option to consider.