You already know a 40-foot unit is the workhorse of container storage. My job is to help you decide which version to choose, how to budget, and how to plan delivery without surprises. I rely on real-world specs, typical site needs, and what I see businesses and property owners ask for most. If you are sourcing in Montana, you can review current options for 40 ft shipping containers from MoCan Containers, a local provider with strong inventory and reliable delivery.
Here is how I would size your space, map your costs, and match a container to your use case. Follow the steps below and you will make a clean, confident decision.
Why a 40-Foot Container Works
A 40-foot container gives you capacity without the cost or delay of building new space. It fits large equipment, long materials, palletized goods, and seasonal inventory with room to spare.
Choose a 40-foot unit if you want:
- Enough volume to replace two smaller containers
- Room to stage projects inside the container
- A single access point that simplifies locks and security
- A platform you can later modify into a shop, office, or retail space
If height is a key factor for tall equipment or racking, look at high-cube versions for extra vertical clearance.
Dimensions You Can Plan Around
Use these dimensions to plan access, layout, and what will fit through the doors. Measurements are typical and can vary by manufacturer and condition. MoCan lists specifications on each unit and can confirm exact details before delivery.
Standard 40-foot container
- Exterior: 40 ft long x 8 ft wide x 8 ft 6 in high
- Interior: about 39 ft 5 in long x 7 ft 8 in wide x 7 ft 10 in high
- Door opening: about 7 ft 8 in wide x 7 ft 5 in high
- Tare weight: about 8,600 pounds
High-cube 40-foot container
- Exterior: 40 ft long x 8 ft wide x 9 ft 6 in high
- Interior: about 39 ft 5 in long x 7 ft 8 in wide x 8 ft 10 in high
- Door opening: about 7 ft 8 in wide x 8 ft 5 in high
- Tare weight: about 8,600 pounds
Tip: If you plan to roll in tall items on casters or stand long materials upright, the high-cube interior height makes loading easier and safer.
Costs and How to Budget
Renting
- Typical starting point from MoCan: about $190 per month for a 40-foot rental
- Good for short-term projects, seasonal storage, events, and job sites
- Predictable monthly cost with professional delivery and pickup
Buying
- Pricing depends on availability, condition, and modifications
- New one-trip units cost more but offer a clean look and long service life
- Used units are more budget friendly and still secure and weatherproof
What affects price
- Condition grade and age
- Standard vs high-cube height
- Delivery distance and site difficulty
- Custom features like doors, windows, lock boxes, vents, shelving, or electrical prep
How I decide between new and used
- Choose new one-trip if appearance matters, if you want the tightest weather seals, or if you plan to modify for a workspace
- Choose used if you want the lowest upfront cost and only need solid, lockable, wind and water tight storage
Planning Delivery and Site Prep
Delivery is simple if the site is ready. A little prep avoids delays and fees.
- Space: Plan about 100 feet of straight, clear space for unloading a 40-foot container from a tilt-bed trailer
- Access: Confirm truck approach, turning radius, overhead lines, trees, gates, and soft ground risks
- Pad: Create a level base. Crushed rock or concrete is ideal. Timbers or blocks at the corners improve airflow and help keep the floor dry
- Placement: Mark exactly where you want the doors to face and ensure the swing area is clear
- Timing: If you expect snow or mud, schedule delivery when the ground is firm or plan for traction support
MoCan’s team can review your site plan in advance and suggest small adjustments that save time on delivery day. They operate from Billings and Bozeman and serve surrounding communities across Montana.
Common Uses That Make Sense
Residential and personal
- Moving or downsizing
- Renovations and temporary storage
- Vehicle parts, outdoor gear, and furniture
Business and retail
- Overflow and seasonal inventory
- E-commerce pallet storage and staging
- Equipment and fixture storage between build-outs
Construction and trades
- Secure tools and materials on job sites
- Long stock like pipe, conduit, and lumber
- On-site workshop with shelving and power-ready layout
Agriculture and ranch
- Feed, seed, and supplies protected from weather
- Implements and machinery parts
- Seasonal storage near fields or barns
Projects and events
- Event staging and gear storage
- Temporary ticketing or retail kiosks after modifications
- Festival infrastructure stored year-round
Why I Recommend MoCan Containers in Montana
MoCan Containers is a locally owned, family-run company founded in 2016. They keep a strong inventory of 40-foot units in both one-trip and used condition. That matters because you can visit their Billings or Bozeman yards, inspect actual containers, and pick the exact unit you want.
Here is what stands out:
- Inventory depth that gives you real choice on condition and height
- Straightforward rental terms, including short-term rentals that start at one month
- Professional delivery and placement with tilt-bed trailers
- Custom modifications for doors, windows, vents, security, and more
- Container moving services if you need a relocation later
- Focus on quality, fair pricing, and practical guidance
If you want a container for storage or to convert into a shop, office, or retail space, their team can help you select the right base unit and plan the build.
How to Choose the Right 40-Foot Unit
Use this checklist to make a quick, confident pick:
1. Capacity: Confirm that 40 feet replaces your current storage plus 20 percent headroom
2. Height: Choose high-cube if you need taller door clearance or racking
3. Condition: One-trip for best seals and appearance, used for budget with solid performance
4. Security: Ask for a lock box and choose a high-quality lock
5. Modifications: Plan doors, windows, lighting, vents, or shelves before delivery
6. Site: Verify 100 feet of straight space, a firm pad, and clear door swing
7. Timing: Align delivery with ground conditions and your loading schedule
Final Take
A 40-foot container is a reliable, scalable solution for storage and on-site workspace. Get the size and height right, choose the condition that fits your budget, and prepare the site before delivery. If you are in Montana, MoCan Containers makes it easy to compare units, rent or buy, and set your container exactly where you need it.
