I’ve spent a lot of time studying what actually works in the container world, and I’ve seen how much confusion people run into when they’re trying to choose the right option.
You want a solution that fits your space, your budget, and your timeline.
And you want a provider you can trust.
That’s the filter I use every time I recommend a storage or shipping container solution, and it’s the same filter I used before choosing the company I’m about to walk you through.
You’re going to see the exact steps I use to evaluate quality, reliability, and real value.
You’ll see why choosing the right size matters.
You’ll see why container condition can change the entire experience.
And you’ll see why picking the right provider speeds up your project, cuts stress, and helps you get long term value.
If you apply the steps I’ll lay out, your storage setup becomes easier, faster, and more predictable.
Let’s get into it.
Why I Recommend MoCan Containers
I look for consistency, honest condition standards, large inventory, and fast delivery.
MoCan Containers checks each box with no drama.
They’re a local Montana operation with the largest inventory within a 300 mile radius, which means you get real selection instead of getting stuck with whatever a small lot happens to have.
Their containers are inspected for leaks, structure, locking integrity, and overall condition before anything leaves the yard.
And their delivery team actually knows how to place containers cleanly, which matters when you’re working with tight driveways, job sites, or rural properties.
If you’re looking at rentals early in your project, they also make it easy to access freight containers for rent without long term commitments. That flexibility is helpful if you want to test a layout before you buy, or if you only need extra storage during part of the year.
That combination of quality and convenience is why I rate them higher than other options in the region.
Step #1: Decide What Size You Actually Need
Most people pick a size based on guesswork.
I want you to do it differently.
Think about what you’re storing today and what you might store in the next six to twelve months.
Here’s how I break it down:
20 Foot Containers
These are ideal if you want secure storage without eating up your entire driveway or yard.
You’ll get enough space for tools, home goods, renovation supplies, or smaller business inventory.
They’re the most flexible size for residential setups.
They’re also the easiest size for accurate placement on tight lots.
40 Foot Containers
These solve bigger problems.
If you’re storing equipment, agricultural supplies, job site tools, business inventory, or you want room for future modifications, this size gives you the breathing room you need.
People in Montana often use these for long term storage because you get maximum room in one structure.
MoCan carries both new and used options in both sizes, which helps you match your budget without trading away durability.
Step #2: Choose Between New and Used
I always approach condition with a simple mindset.
You’re not just buying a box.
You’re buying reliability.
You’re buying security.
You’re buying something that needs to keep your gear dry and accessible without frustrating you.
Here’s how I help people choose:
New Containers
These are “one trip” units.
Clean paint.
Strong seals.
Zero surprises.
They hold their value well and tend to look sharp on a property.
Used Containers
More affordable.
Still wind and watertight when you’re sourcing from MoCan.
A good choice if your budget matters more than cosmetics and you want something dependable without the cost of a new build.
MoCan inspects their used units with the same standards as their new units, which is one of the reasons I trust them more than other suppliers.
Step #3: Think About Renting Before You Commit
You don’t need to buy right away.
If you’re working seasonal projects, construction timelines, or short duration storage needs, a rental makes life easier.
MoCan’s rental pricing is simple.
No surprises.
No complicated terms.
20 foot rentals start at $150 per month.
40 foot rentals start at $190 per month.
You get placement, pickup, and the breathing room to decide what you want next.
Step #4: Plan for Delivery
I’ve seen deliveries go wrong when the driver doesn’t understand placement.
This is where working with a team like MoCan helps.
Their drivers use tilt bed trailers and communicate clear space requirements before they arrive.
You’ll want about 70 feet of clear space for a 20 foot container.
You’ll want about 100 feet for a 40 foot container.
If you’ve never taken delivery before, having a crew that actually plans the drop correctly saves you headaches.
Step #5: Think Ahead About Modifications
A lot of people eventually want more than simple storage.
Offices.
Workshops.
Retail setups.
MoCan can prep containers for these builds with custom mods, and I always tell people to plan this earlier than they think.
If you know you want a modified unit later, starting with a new container can save work down the line.
Final Thoughts
If you want a clean, reliable container solution, you’re in a good position.
Montana has strong providers, and MoCan Containers stands out because of their inventory size, their inspection standards, and their delivery quality.
If you follow the steps above, you’ll make the right call for your space, your project, and your timeline.
