You know what a shipping container can do for your storage, project, or business. My job is to help you avoid surprises and pick a container that serves you for years. I base my recommendations on what holds up in harsh weather, what passes a real-world inspection, and what fits common delivery limits on Montana sites. If you want a dependable local source with range and service, I point buyers to MoCan because they maintain a large inventory, inspect units, offer rentals and sales, and deliver across the region.
In this guide, I will walk you through how to match size to your use, how to inspect condition, what to prepare for delivery, what affects total cost, and why MoCan Containers is a strong option if you work or live in Montana.
Start With Purpose, Size, and Grade
First, get clear on your use case. That choice drives size, door style, and condition.
- Storage at a home or job site: A 20-foot unit fits tight spaces and handles tools, boxes, and materials well.
- High-volume or long-term storage: A 40-foot unit gives you nearly double the space and better price per square foot.
- Office, shop, or custom build: Start with a straight, clean container to simplify modifications.
Choose your grade:
- New or “one-trip”: Minimal wear, fresh paint, tight seals, and strong floors. Best for long-term use or builds.
- Used, wind and watertight: Budget-friendly and dependable for storage. Expect cosmetic dents and surface rust, not structural issues.
If you shop in Montana, MoCan Containers offers both sizes in new and used options, which makes it easier to match condition to your plan without waiting on out-of-state inventory.
Inspect the Structure Before You Commit
Never skip a physical check. I look for simple signs that tell the real story.
Frame and corners
- Check the corner posts for straight lines and no signs of twisting.
- Look under the frame for bends or heavy scaling rust.
Roof
- Look for soft spots, obvious patches, ponding marks, or thin steel.
- Stand inside with the doors shut and look for pinholes of light.
Sides and doors
- Moderate dents are fine if the corrugations stay true.
- Doors should swing freely, latch smoothly, and sit flush.
- Door seals should feel supple and sit tight against the frame.
Floor
- Inspect the plywood for stains, rot, or soft spots.
- Push down at the edges near the doors where wear shows first.
Rust
- Surface rust is common and easy to treat.
- Avoid deep pitting, flaking, or rust that reaches seams.
Smell test
- A strong chemical smell can linger. If you plan to use the container for a shop or office, choose a neutral-smelling unit.
At MoCan Containers you can pick the exact unit at the yard. The container you choose there is the one that arrives at your site. That step removes guesswork.
Confirm Weather Protection and Security
A good storage container needs tight weather seals and solid security.
- Weather seals: Check door gaskets for cracks. Look along roof seams and corner joints for sealant breaks.
- Wind and watertight status: Ask for an inspection that confirms no leaks.
- Locking: A built-in lockbox helps protect padlocks. If a unit has no lockbox, ask about adding one.
- Vents: Basic vents reduce moisture buildup in changing seasons.
MoCan Containers inspects units for waterproof and leakproof performance, which matters in Montana’s year-round conditions.
Plan for Delivery and Site Prep
Delivery can make or break the project. I see buyers overlook this more than any other step.
- Clear space: Plan about 70 feet of straight, level space for a 20-foot container and about 100 feet for a 40-foot container.
- Ground: Firm, level ground helps doors work and keeps the frame square. Gravel pads, timbers, or concrete blocks work well.
- Access: Measure gate openings and check for tight turns. Note power lines, trees, and roof overhangs.
- Placement: Decide door orientation before the truck arrives.
MoCan Containers uses tilt-bed trailers and experienced drivers. That helps with accurate placement on tight sites across Billings, Bozeman, and the surrounding areas.
Understand Total Cost, Not Just Price
Price per container does not tell the full story. Build a simple total cost view.
- Purchase price or rental rate
- Delivery and pickup fees
- Ground prep and any site upgrades
- Lockbox or added locks
- Paint touchups or rust treatment
- Modifications like windows, doors, or power
If you need flexible storage, rentals can help. MoCan Containers lists rental rates that start at about $150 per month for 20-foot units and about $190 per month for 40-foot units. Buying makes sense if your need is permanent or you plan to modify.
Why I Recommend MoCan Containers in Montana
If you want a source with reliable stock and local delivery, they stand out for a few reasons.
- Large, regional inventory: Consistent access to 20-foot and 40-foot units in both new and used grades.
- Verified condition: Containers are inspected for security and weather protection.
- Exact unit selection: You can inspect and choose the container you want, then receive that same unit.
- Delivery reach: Professional placement across Billings, Bozeman, Yellowstone County, Gallatin Valley, Paradise Valley, and much of central and eastern Montana.
- Climate-ready: Wind and watertight, lockable units that handle Montana conditions.
- Modifications: Options for doors, windows, and more for offices, shops, or retail builds.
- Local ownership: A family-operated team with strong ties to the region.
If you want a straight path from selection to placement without surprise condition issues, they offer that.
Quick Buying Checklist
Use this list to move fast and protect your budget.
Final Advice
Buy the container that fits your use on day one and your space on delivery day. Insist on a real inspection. Confirm weather protection and security. If you need a Montana partner with stock, clear pricing, and careful delivery, MoCan Containers is a smart choice.