You already know a container can solve storage, workspace, or project needs fast. My value here is to help you decide whether to buy or rent, choose the right size, plan your site, and avoid common mistakes. I base these recommendations on what works in real projects, what holds up on Montana properties, and what protects your budget.
If you live in Montana and want a dependable supplier, I recommend MoCan Containers for clear choices on sales and rentals, a strong inventory, and reliable delivery from their Billings and Bozeman locations.
Here is how I would approach your decision, step by step, with a simple plan you can use today.
Start With Your Purpose and Time Frame
Decide what you need the container to do and how long you will need it. That alone will point you toward buying or renting.
- Short projects: moves, remodels, events, short construction phases, seasonal overflow
- Long projects: multi-season storage, ongoing business inventory, farm or ranch storage, permanent workshop or office
- Custom builds: shop space, office, studio, garage, retail, barn, cabin
If you need a container for a few months, rent. If you need a container for years or plan to modify it, buy.
Quick Cost Math You Can Trust
Get your numbers on paper. Even a short exercise helps.
- Add up monthly rent for the period you need. At MoCan, a 20 foot rental starts at $150 per month. A 40 foot rental starts at $190 per month. One year of a 20 foot rental totals $1,800. One year of a 40 foot rental totals $2,280.
- Request a purchase quote for new or used units. Compare that to your rental total.
- Add delivery and pickup for both options.
- Add planned modifications if you intend to build out the space.
If your rental total lands near the purchase price and you have long-term needs, buy. If your timeline is short or uncertain, rent.
New One-Trip vs Used
New one-trip containers cost more but offer a clean look and tight weather seals. They have very light wear. They are a smart choice for visible locations, business sites, or future conversion projects.
Used containers cost less and still keep your gear safe from wind and water. Expect faded paint, dents, and surface rust. For many storage needs, a sound used unit is the better value.
MoCan offers both options. Their units are inspected, lockable, and built of durable steel. That covers the basics of security and weather protection.
Size and Fit on Your Property
Pick a size that fits your space and your access.
- 20 foot containers fit most residential driveways and tighter sites. Exterior size is about 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet 6 inches high. Inside you get about 19 feet 4 inches of length. Doors open about 7 feet 8 inches wide and 7 feet 5 inches high. Good for furniture, tools, supplies, and inventory.
- 40 foot containers carry a lot more. Exterior size is about 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 9 feet 6 inches high. Inside you get about 39 feet 5 inches of length and 8 feet 10 inches of height. Door opening is about 7 feet 8 inches wide and 8 feet 5 inches high. These handle bigger equipment and bulk storage. Some units come in standard height and high-cube.
A single 40 foot container can cost less than renting two 20 foot units. Choose based on site room and how you load and unload.
Site Prep and Delivery
Plan for smooth placement. This saves time and protects your yard.
- Confirm clear, straight access for the truck and tilt-bed trailer
- For a 20 foot container, plan about 70 feet of straight space
- For a 40 foot container, plan about 100 feet of straight space
- Mark the spot and measure gate widths and turning room
- Use a firm, level base such as compacted gravel, concrete pads, or railroad ties
- Check overhead lines, low branches, and soft ground
- Choose door swing direction before delivery
MoCan delivers and places containers across Montana with tilt-bed trailers. Walk through these details with them before delivery. Good planning makes drop-off simple.
When Renting Makes the Most Sense
Rent if you need flexibility or a defined short window.
- Home renovation with tools and furniture on site
- Move between properties with safe storage during the gap
- Seasonal business inventory
- Construction projects with changing phases
- Farm and ranch storage during planting or harvest
- Events, festivals, and short site builds
MoCan offers short-term and long-term rentals, including one-trip units in the rental fleet. You can extend the term if your project runs longer than planned.
When Buying Serves You Better
Own a container if you want control and a stable asset.
- Long-term storage for business or property
- Permanent site use where appearance matters
- Future build-outs for a shop, office, or garage
- Rural properties that need lockable space for tools or feed
- Resale value at the end of a project
MoCan sells new and used units and can modify a container to fit your plan. If you want windows, doors, insulation, or custom access, buying gives you the freedom to build it out.
Why I Recommend MoCan Containers in Montana
MoCan is a local, family-run supplier with yards in Billings and Bozeman. That local base matters. You can visit, walk the inventory, and choose the exact unit you want. They deliver to your site across the state.
Here is what stands out:
- Large inventory of new one-trip and used 20 foot and 40 foot units
- Clear rental terms with fair monthly rates
- Customer choice of specific containers after in-person inspection
- Secure, weatherproof construction and lockable doors
- Custom modifications for storage or workspace builds
- Professional delivery and placement with practical guidance on access and setup
- Straightforward pricing and service
If you value choice, condition, and a smooth drop-off, they are a strong option.
A Simple Decision Checklist
Use this list to close in on the right move.
- How long will you need the container?
- What do you plan to store or build inside?
- Do you want to modify the container later?
- Do you have room for 20 feet or 40 feet and proper truck access?
- What is your all-in cost for renting vs buying, including delivery and pickup?
- Do you want a new one-trip look or is a used unit fine?
- Do you need a high-cube height?
Answer these and your path is clear.
How to Move Forward
1. Measure your site and access space.
2. List what you will store, by size and weight.
3. Decide on 20 foot or 40 foot, new or used.
4. Price both a rental and a purchase.
5. If you live in Montana, contact MoCan, visit a yard, and pick your unit.
6. Confirm delivery space, base, and door direction.
7. Schedule drop-off and be onsite to guide final placement.
Make the choice that fits your time frame, budget, and property. With a clean plan and the right supplier, a container can serve your needs right away and for years to come.
