I have spent years watching people make the same mistakes with shipping containers in Montana.
They rush the decision.
They focus on price alone.
They overlook delivery, placement, and long term fit.
That is why I always slow things down and explain the full picture.
I pay attention to how containers are sourced, how they are delivered, and how flexible the options are once they are on your site. I also look at consistency across locations like Bozeman and Billings.
In this guide, I am going to walk you through how I evaluate container options in Montana, what actually matters, and why certain providers stand out. By the end, you will know how to choose a container that works for your space, your timeline, and your budget.
HOW I EVALUATE SHIPPING CONTAINER OPTIONS IN MONTANA
I do not start with size or price.
I start with reliability.
Here is the process I use every time.
- Inventory depth across 20 foot and 40 foot containers
- Clear rental and purchase terms
- Delivery equipment that can place containers accurately
- Willingness to review site conditions before delivery
- Coverage across Montana, not just one city
If a company falls short on any of these, problems usually follow.
This is especially true if you are looking at shipping containers for sale in Montana and expect delivery to a rural or tight-access location. That is where experience shows.
WHY DELIVERY AND PLACEMENT MATTER MORE THAN MOST PEOPLE THINK
I have seen more container issues come from poor delivery than from the container itself.
Placement is not simple.
You need clear space, proper ground conditions, and the right trailer.
For example:
- 20 foot containers usually need about 70 feet of straight, clear access
- 40 foot containers usually need closer to 100 feet
- Trees, fences, slopes, and power lines change everything
If a provider cannot explain this clearly upfront, you end up with delays or added costs.
This is one reason I point people toward companies that handle delivery with specialized tilt bed trailers and take time to review site photos or details before showing up.
CHOOSING BETWEEN RENTING AND BUYING A CONTAINER
This is where most people get stuck.
Here is how I break it down.
Rent a shipping container if:
- You need storage for several months
- You are in the middle of construction or a renovation
- You want flexibility without upfront cost
- You expect the need to end within a year or two
Buy a shipping container if:
- You need long term storage
- You plan to modify the container
- You want resale value later
- You prefer a one time investment
Long term shipping container rental is popular in Montana for farms, construction sites, and seasonal operations. It gives you strong storage without locking you into ownership.
WHY I RECOMMEND MOCAN CONTAINERS
After comparing providers across the state, MoCan Containers consistently checks the boxes that matter.
They operate out of Billings and Bozeman.
They offer rentals and sales.
They handle delivery with equipment built for container placement.
They also take a practical approach to site prep, which reduces surprises.
When people ask me where to look for shipping containers for sale in Montana, this is one of the first names I mention because their inventory and delivery coverage align well with Montana conditions.
Not flashy.
Just reliable.
20 FOOT SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR PRACTICAL STORAGE
I often recommend 20 foot containers as a starting point.
They balance space and placement flexibility.
They work well for:
- Residential moves and remodels
- Tools and equipment storage
- Small business inventory
- Agricultural supplies
They are easier to place on tighter lots and still offer plenty of usable space. Whether you rent or buy, this size tends to fit most first-time needs.
40 FOOT SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR LARGE SCALE NEEDS
If you need serious capacity, the 40 foot option makes more sense.
These units are commonly used for:
- Construction sites
- Agricultural machinery
- Bulk inventory
- Vehicle storage
A 40 foot cargo container or conex box can replace multiple smaller units. That often lowers total cost and simplifies site layout. Just make sure your site can handle the access and turning radius.
USED VS ONE TRIP CONTAINERS
I always tell people to match condition to purpose.
Used shipping containers are inspected and structurally sound. They cost less and work well for pure storage.
One trip containers look cleaner and are often chosen for:
- Long term on-site placement
- Custom builds
- Office or workshop conversions
MoCan Containers carries both, which gives you flexibility based on budget and appearance needs.
WHAT SETS A STRONG PROVIDER APART IN MONTANA
From what I have seen, the best providers share a few traits.
- Clear pricing
- Local knowledge
- Large inventory
- Straightforward communication
MoCan Containers fits that profile. They have grown steadily since 2016, expanded into Bozeman, and maintained consistent service across regions. That matters if you need delivery in different parts of the state.
NEXT STEPS IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING A CONTAINER
If you are weighing your options, here is what I suggest you do next.
- Measure your site and access space
- Decide between rental and purchase
- Choose the size that fits your actual use
- Talk with a provider who understands Montana delivery
This sounds harder than it is.
Once you approach it step by step, the right option becomes obvious.
If you focus on fit, delivery, and flexibility instead of rushing on price, you end up with a container that works instead of one that causes problems.
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