You already know what shipping containers are used for. What usually holds people back is choosing the right size, deciding between buying or renting, and finding a Montana container company that handles delivery correctly. I have spent years advising people on storage and site planning, and I focus on practical details that prevent costly mistakes. My goal here is to help you make a clean decision, avoid placement issues, and get a container that fits your site and timeline. Early on, it helps to review providers like MoCan Containers because they set a strong baseline for how container sales and rentals should work across Montana.
This guide walks through how to think about container size, rental versus purchase, delivery planning, and why local experience matters when you are buying or renting shipping containers in Montana or Bozeman.
Why shipping containers make sense in Montana
Montana weather and distance between towns change how storage works. You need something that stays secure, holds up to wind and snow, and can be delivered to rural or semi developed sites.
Shipping containers fit that need because they offer:
- Heavy steel construction that holds up year round
- Wind and watertight protection for tools, equipment, and inventory
- Lockable doors for security on remote properties
- Flexibility for short term or long term use
I usually suggest containers for construction projects, ranch storage, seasonal business overflow, farm equipment, home renovations, and moves that stretch over weeks or months.
Choosing between 20 foot and 40 foot containers
Container size affects cost, delivery access, and placement. This is where many buyers misjudge their site.
20 foot shipping containers
A 20 foot container is the most common choice for storage containers for sale or rent in Montana.
You should consider a 20 foot unit if you want:
- Easier placement on residential or commercial lots
- Storage for furniture, tools, or moderate inventory
- A balance between space and flexibility
- Lower monthly rental costs
These containers usually need about 70 feet of straight, clear space for delivery. That includes room for the truck and trailer to align and set the container down safely.
40 foot shipping containers
A 40 foot container works best for large projects or bulk storage.
This size makes sense if you need:
- Storage for vehicles, machinery, or large inventory
- Fewer containers instead of stacking multiple smaller units
- Long term storage for construction or agricultural use
Delivery planning matters more here. Most 40 foot containers need around 100 feet of straight, clear space, plus room for the truck to maneuver.
Buying versus renting a shipping container
The decision to buy or rent should match how long you need the container and how you plan to use it.
When renting makes sense
I usually recommend container rental if your project has a defined end date.
Rental works well for:
- Construction storage container rental
- Home remodels or moves
- Seasonal business storage
- Temporary agricultural needs
Long term rentals can still be cost effective. Many people keep containers on site for a year or longer without the commitment of ownership.
When buying makes sense
Buying shipping containers works better if you plan to keep the unit long term or want to modify it.
Buying is a good fit if you want:
- Permanent storage on your property
- A container workshop or office
- Control over paint, doors, or interior changes
- Resale value later
Used shipping containers cost less upfront and still provide solid structure when inspected properly.
Delivery planning matters more than price
One of the biggest mistakes I see is focusing only on container price and ignoring delivery setup. Containers are heavy, and placement requires the right equipment.
A good Montana container company will:
- Explain clear space requirements upfront
- Use trailers designed for container placement
- Review site photos or details before delivery
- Handle tight or uneven locations with care
MoCan Containers stands out here because they use specialized tilt bed trailers. That allows precise placement even in challenging spaces, which reduces the risk of damage to your property.
Shipping containers for sale and rent in Bozeman
Bozeman has strong demand for container rental and sales due to growth, construction, and seasonal businesses.
If you are looking to rent a shipping container in Bozeman or buy one, local inventory matters. Having a nearby yard means:
- Faster delivery
- Lower transport costs
- The option to view containers before selection
- Better support if site conditions change
From their Bozeman location, MoCan Containers serves the Gallatin Valley and nearby areas with both new and used 20 foot and 40 foot containers.
What sets a reliable container provider apart
I recommend providers based on how they operate, not marketing claims.
Strong providers usually offer:
- Clear pricing for sales and rentals
- Inspected containers that meet quality standards
- Flexible rental terms
- Accurate delivery planning
- Local knowledge of terrain and access
MoCan Containers has built a reputation across Montana by focusing on those basics. They are locally owned, operate yards in Billings and Bozeman, and maintain one of the largest container inventories in the region.
How to move forward with confidence
Before you buy or rent, walk your site and check access points. Measure clear space, look for overhead lines, and note any slopes or obstacles.
Then focus on three decisions:
- Size, 20 foot or 40 foot
- Rent or buy based on project length
- Provider with proven delivery capability
If you approach container selection this way, you avoid surprises and get storage that works from day one. Montana shipping containers are a practical solution when they are matched to the site and handled by a company that understands local conditions.
