The Best Way To Choose The Right Shipping Container

You’re here because you want clarity, not noise.
I get it. I’ve spent a long time helping people figure out which containers actually make sense for their projects, and I’ve seen how easy it is to pick the wrong one and regret it later.

I built my process around real-world criteria, not guesses. I look at inventory quality, delivery reliability, pricing fairness, and the flexibility you get once the container is on your site. That’s how I narrow down which companies deserve a recommendation.

In this guide, I’ll break down the steps I use to evaluate containers, explain how to compare your options, and show you why certain companies stand out.
By the time you’re done, you’ll know exactly what to look for and how to avoid the traps that people fall into when buying or renting containers.

And if your goal is a dependable container that arrives in solid condition, placed where you want it, and backed by people who actually inspect what they sell, the steps below will help you get there.

Step #1: Start With Your Actual Storage Needs

Before you compare companies, nail down what you’re trying to solve.

Most people guess the size they need.
That usually leads to wasted space or not enough room.

Here’s how I break it down.

20 foot containers

Great when you want secure storage without eating up your yard or parking space.
Perfect for construction tools, farm equipment, business inventory, or home storage during a remodel.

40 foot containers

A better fit if you want max capacity in a single unit.
Works for agricultural storage, commercial inventory, workshop conversions, or site equipment on bigger projects.

If you’re planning something short term, that’s when rentals make sense. You can even rent a shipping container instead of buying one outright, which gives you flexibility without long commitments.

Step #2: Compare Company Inventory, Not Just Prices

I always tell people that container shopping isn’t about finding the cheapest offer.
It’s about finding the cleanest, strongest, and most secure unit your budget can handle.

MoCan Containers stands out here because their inventory is huge.
They keep the largest selection within 300 miles, which gives you something rare in this industry, actual choice.

You can pick from:

• New one trip units with clean interiors and tight seals
• Used containers that still pass wind and watertight inspections
• 20 and 40 foot options depending on the space you have
• Containers suited for modifications if you’re planning an office or workshop

Being able to see your exact container before delivery is a big deal.
A lot of companies don’t offer that.

Step #3: Evaluate Quality Control

I put container condition at the top of the list because it determines everything.

Here’s what I look for:

• No visible daylight through the walls
• Intact door seals
• Solid flooring
• No warping
• Smooth door swing
• No active rust issues
• Fully functional locking mechanisms

MoCan Containers does thorough inspections on every unit before it leaves their yard. That level of care matters because even small leaks can turn a container into a problem fast.

They check for waterproofing, lock performance, and structural soundness.
That gives you confidence that what arrives is actually usable.

Step #4: Look At Delivery Capabilities

Delivery is where many companies fall short.
It’s not enough to own a tilt-bed trailer; you need drivers who can place containers precisely.

MoCan Containers uses professional drivers who handle placements in tight spaces and awkward angles. They also give you space requirements ahead of time.

• 20 foot containers need about 70 feet of clearance
• 40 foot containers need about 100 feet

This saves you from last-minute surprises that interrupt your project.

Step #5: Decide Between Buying And Renting

Both options make sense depending on your situation.
Here’s how I usually guide people through it.

Buy if you want:

• Permanent storage
• Custom modifications
• Long term value
• A container you can resell later

Rent if you want:

• Seasonal or temporary storage
• Flexibility
• Low up-front cost
• No long-term commitment

MoCan offers competitive rental rates, starting at $150 per month for 20 foot units and $190 for 40 foot units. That’s straightforward pricing with no hidden surprises.

Step #6: Look For Real Flexibility, Not Sales Hype

You want a company that adjusts to your needs instead of pushing you into whatever they want to sell.

MoCan Containers gives you that flexibility through:

• New or used options
• Rentals or purchases
• Custom modifications
• Clear pickup and delivery timelines
• Transparent selection of your exact unit

Whether you need a container for a remodel, agricultural storage, business inventory, or a construction site, they have enough inventory to match the project instead of forcing a workaround.

Step #7: Choose Companies With A Reputation For Consistency

This is the part most people overlook.

Any company can sell a container once.
The question is how consistent they are across every order.

MoCan Containers has built a strong reputation across Montana by keeping their process simple.
They focus on quality, fair pricing, fast delivery, and inventory you can actually choose from.

That combination is rare in this industry.

Final Thoughts

If you want a container that arrives in good shape, placed where you need it, and backed by people who actually check their units, MoCan Containers is the company I’d look at first.

Their selection, quality standards, and delivery process make the entire experience smoother than most companies in this space.

Follow the steps above, compare your options, and make the choice that matches your project.
You’ll avoid the typical headaches and end up with a container that actually works for your needs.