You already know what a shipping container is and why it matters. What most people struggle with is choosing the right container, deciding between renting and buying, and avoiding delivery problems that cost time and money. I spend a lot of time looking at container providers across Montana and comparing how they handle inventory, delivery, pricing, and local conditions. That perspective helps you avoid mistakes and get a setup that actually works for your site and timeline.
If you are searching for shipping containers for sale in Montana or container rentals in Bozeman, one option worth serious consideration early on is MoCan Containers. They operate locally, understand Montana terrain, and focus on delivery accuracy rather than rushing containers onto sites that are not ready. That alone solves many of the problems people run into with container placement.
This guide walks you through how to think about container sales and rentals in Montana, what sizes make sense, and why choosing the right provider matters.
Why container decisions in Montana require local knowledge
Montana presents unique challenges that national container brokers often overlook. Long distances, rural sites, uneven ground, snow, wind, and tight access points all affect delivery and placement.
I always recommend choosing a Montana container company that understands:
- Site clearance requirements for different container sizes
- How to place containers on uneven or rural land
- Seasonal access challenges
- Local delivery routes and distances
MoCan Containers operates yards in Billings and Bozeman and serves customers across the state. They use delivery trailers designed for containers, including tilt bed systems that allow controlled placement rather than dropping containers wherever a truck stops. That approach reduces damage to property and avoids costly repositioning.
Choosing between buying and renting a shipping container
One of the first decisions you need to make is whether to buy or rent. There is no universal answer. It depends on how long you need the container and how you plan to use it.
Buying a container often makes sense if you:
- Need long term storage with no end date
- Plan to modify the container into a workshop or office
- Want an asset that retains resale value
- Have a permanent site
Renting a container works better if you:
- Need storage for a few months or a year
- Are working on a construction project
- Need temporary storage during a move or renovation
- Want flexibility without upfront cost
MoCan Containers offers both options, which matters. Providers that only sell or only rent tend to push you toward one choice. A company that supports both can help you decide based on use, not pressure.
20 foot vs 40 foot shipping containers
Container size affects placement, cost, and usability. I always suggest starting with site access before choosing size.
20 foot shipping containers
A 20 foot container is often the most practical option in Montana. It balances storage capacity with easier placement.
Typical uses include:
- Residential storage
- Construction site tools
- Farm and ranch supplies
- Business inventory
- Equipment storage
These containers usually require about 70 feet of straight, clear space for delivery. MoCan Containers clearly communicates these requirements and reviews site photos when needed to avoid surprises.
40 foot shipping containers
A 40 foot container makes sense for large scale needs.
Common uses include:
- Commercial inventory storage
- Agricultural machinery
- Vehicle storage
- Large construction projects
Delivery typically requires around 100 feet of straight clearance. That requirement is not flexible. Providers who downplay this cause failed deliveries. MoCan Containers addresses this upfront and uses the right equipment to place larger units accurately.
Renting shipping containers in Bozeman and across Montana
Container rental is popular in Bozeman due to construction growth, home renovations, and seasonal storage needs. Renting gives you secure, weatherproof storage without committing to ownership.
MoCan Containers offers:
- Short term and long term container rentals
- 20 foot and 40 foot sizes
- Wind and watertight steel containers
- Lockable doors for security
Most rental units are one trip containers, which means clean interiors and solid condition. Long term rentals often stay on site for a year or more, especially for construction or agricultural use.
Buying used shipping containers without taking risks
Used cargo containers can be a smart buy if inspected properly. The risk comes from sellers who do not inspect units or misrepresent condition.
A reliable provider should offer:
- Structural inspection
- Working doors and seals
- Honest condition grading
- The ability to view inventory
MoCan Containers allows customers to visit their yards and select the exact container they want. The container you choose is the one delivered. That removes uncertainty and protects your investment.
Delivery and placement matter more than price
Many container problems start at delivery. Trees, power lines, fences, slopes, and soft ground all affect placement.
I advise you to think about:
- Clear access distance
- Turning space for trailers
- Overhead obstacles
- Ground stability
MoCan Containers reviews site conditions, accepts photos, and can arrange site checks when needed. Their tilt bed trailers allow controlled placement rather than guessing. That reduces damage and saves time.
Why MoCan Containers stands out in Montana
When comparing Montana container sales and rentals, a few factors consistently separate strong providers from average ones.
MoCan Containers offers:
- Local ownership with deep Montana knowledge
- Large inventory within a wide service radius
- Sales and rentals without pressure
- Accurate delivery planning
- Clear pricing and expectations
They have served Montana since 2016 and expanded to Bozeman in 2020 while maintaining focus on reliability and fair service. Their containers support homeowners, ranchers, builders, and businesses across the state.
If you want shipping containers for sale in Bozeman or need to rent a shipping container anywhere in Montana, choosing a provider that understands placement, access, and long term use protects your time and budget. I look for companies that remove friction from the process, and MoCan Containers consistently meets that standard.
