You already know a shipping container is a strong, secure way to add storage. The real question is which container fits your space, your timeline, and your budget. I help people make that call by focusing on purpose, site conditions, access needs, climate, and provider support. If you need a trusted source in Montana, MoCan Containers stands out for inventory, inspections, and delivery skill. I will explain how to think through key decisions and share a checklist you can use before you place an order.
Here is how this guide helps you. I will walk you through the choices that matter, highlight details that get missed, and point you toward a provider that covers the essentials without adding friction to your project.
Start With Use, Duration, and Access
Begin with clarity on how you plan to use the container and for how long. That choice shapes size, condition, and budget.
- Purpose: tools and materials, inventory, equipment, household goods, or a custom build
- Duration: short project or long placement
- Access: daily in-and-out, pallet deliveries, or seasonal swaps
- Items: height, length, and weight of your largest piece
- Security: basic lock or higher deterrence
I suggest you write this down before you compare units. Clear needs lead to a better match.
Pick the Right Size
For most storage plans, you will look at 20 foot and 40 foot containers.
- 20 foot: Good balance of space and placement. Fits driveways, small job sites, and tight yards. Interior space is about 19 feet 4 inches long, 7 feet 10 inches high, and 7 feet 8 inches wide.
- 40 foot: Best for large inventories, equipment, and warehouse overflow. Interior space is about 39 feet 5 inches long, 8 feet 10 inches high, and 7 feet 8 inches wide.
If you are unsure, I use this rule: pick the smallest container that holds your largest items with aisle space for safe movement. Cramming leads to damage and delays.
Choose Condition: One-Trip vs Used
Condition affects appearance, lifespan, and price.
- One-trip (new): Single use from the factory. Clean walls, strong seals, minimal wear. Good fit if you need a clean look, tight weather seals, or plan to modify the unit.
- Used: Budget-friendly, with sound structure and weather tight seals. Expect surface rust or dents. Good fit for site storage, farm use, or overflow.
I advise one-trip if your site is public-facing or if you plan to install windows, doors, or electrical work. Choose used if you want savings and are fine with cosmetic marks.
Doors and Access Features
Entry and movement inside the container drive daily ease.
- Standard double doors: Work for most storage tasks
- High-cube option: Extra height for taller items
- Lock boxes: Add a shield over the padlock
- Ramp or step: Reduces trips and strains
- Lighting: Improves visibility and safety
- Tie-down points and shelving: Keeps gear in place and organized
If you have forklifts or frequent pallet drops, I recommend a clear path to the doors and adequate apron space for turning.
Weather Resistance and Security
Montana wind, snow, and temperature swings put containers to the test. Look for:
- Wind and watertight seals
- Solid roof with no daylight
- Straight doors that swing and seal without force
- Lock box or puck lock support
- Ventilation to limit condensation
I check each door gasket, then step inside in daylight to scan for pinholes or gaps. Basic checks prevent future leaks.
Flooring, Venting, and Interior Fit
Marine plywood floors handle weight and resist moisture. Still, match the floor to your use:
- Heavy equipment: Consider steel plates over flooring at entry points
- Moisture-prone items: Add vents or a dehumidifier
- Clean goods: Lay a floor liner to reduce dust transfer
- Insulation: Needed if humans work inside or if you store temperature-sensitive materials
Site and Delivery Planning
Delivery and placement can make or break the plan. Before you schedule:
- Measure clear space: Plan for about 70 feet to place a 20 foot unit and about 100 feet for a 40 foot unit
- Check slope: Keep the site level to avoid door bind
- Base: Crushed rock, timbers, or concrete pads help drainage and airflow
- Overhead: Check for branches and power lines
- Access route: Tight turns or soft ground can stop a truck
I also ask the provider about trailer type. Tilt-bed trailers help with precise placement.
Buy or Rent
Rent if you need short-term storage or if your needs may change. Buy if you plan a long placement or want to modify the unit.
- Rent: Ideal for remodels, seasonal inventory, or site work
- Buy: Best for recurring use, long placements, or custom builds
MoCan Containers lists rental rates that are easy to plan around. Their 20 foot rentals start at $150 per month, and 40 foot rentals start at $190 per month. Ask about delivery and pickup fees to complete your budget.
Why I Recommend MoCan Containers
I look for providers with a strong inventory, real inspections, and delivery teams that think ahead. MoCan Containers checks those boxes and adds value specific to Montana.
- Size and selection: One of the largest inventories in a 300 mile radius, with both 20 foot and 40 foot units in new and used condition
- Inspected units: Wind and watertight seals, sturdy floors, and lock-ready doors fit for Montana weather
- Clear pricing paths: Rentals for short and long terms, plus purchase options across conditions
- Professional delivery: Tilt-bed trailers and drivers who can place units in tight spots
- Site readiness guidance: Simple guidelines for clear space and access
- Choice of unit: You can inspect and select the exact container at the yard
- Two convenient locations: Billings and the Bozeman area
- Modification services: Doors, windows, and build-outs for workshops, offices, and retail setups
They serve homeowners, businesses, construction teams, farms, and ranches. That range helps with edge cases and special requests.
A Simple Selection Checklist
Use this list to lock in the right pick.
1. Define purpose, duration, and access pattern.
2. Choose size based on largest item and aisle space.
3. Pick condition: one-trip for top seals and clean look, used for savings.
4. Confirm weather seals, roof condition, and straight doors.
5. Plan security: lock box, puck lock, lighting.
6. Set the base: level ground with drainage.
7. Measure delivery path and clear space.
8. Decide rent or buy based on project length and plans to modify.
9. Ask to inspect the exact unit before delivery.
10. Schedule delivery with clear placement notes.
Common Mistakes I See
- Guessing on size, then losing aisle space
- Ignoring door swing and turn radius at the site
- Placing on soft ground that settles and twists the frame
- Skipping a lock box on sites with public access
- Forgetting ventilation for moisture-prone items
- Ordering without inspecting the exact unit
Avoid these and you protect your budget and your timeline.
Final Take
Pick your container the same way you plan a project: start with use, map the site, and choose a provider that stands behind the unit and the delivery. If you are in Montana, MoCan Containers brings strong inventory, clear inspections, and thoughtful placement service. Match size and condition to the work, line up the site details, and you will get secure storage that fits your plan without friction.
