You already know what a container can do. What you need is a clear way to decide between 20-foot and 40-foot units without guesswork or regret. I help buyers and renters make this call every week by weighing site access, storage goals, budget, and timing. This guide walks you through each factor and gives you practical picks at the end.
If you are leaning toward a larger unit, review current options and specs from a trusted Montana provider here at MoCan Montana. I recommend them for their depth of inventory, thorough inspections, and reliable delivery across the state.
Quick Size Snapshot
Before you compare features, lock in the basics.
- 20-foot containers
- Interior: about 19 feet 4 inches long, 7 feet 10 inches high, and 7 feet 8 inches wide
- Best for tight lots, frequent access, and smaller job sites
- Easier placement on residential properties
- 40-foot containers
- Interior: about 39 feet 5 inches long, 8 feet 10 inches high, and 7 feet 8 inches wide
- Nearly double the floor space of a 20-foot unit
- Best for larger inventories, equipment storage, and build-outs
The 40-foot option gives you extra height and much longer run for shelving or pallet rows. The 20-foot unit fits more sites and keeps foot traffic shorter and more efficient.
How I Weigh Site and Access
Space and access decide the winner for many projects.
- Delivery clearance
- 20-foot placement typically needs about 70 feet of clear space
- 40-foot placement usually needs about 100 feet
- Ground conditions
- Firm, level ground is best for both sizes
- Plan for wood blocks or concrete pads at corners if the surface is uneven
- Overhead and approach
- Watch for low branches, power lines, fences, and tight turns
- Longer units need a wider approach path for tilt-bed trailers
If your driveway is narrow or your site sits behind trees or a barn, a 20-foot unit saves headaches. If your location offers a wide, open approach, a 40-foot unit delivers far more storage per dollar.
Use Cases That Fit Each Size
Here is how I match common needs to each length.
- Choose a 20-foot container for:
- Residential storage during remodels or moves
- Contractor tools and materials on compact job sites
- Seasonal business stock in small parking lots
- Farm and ranch supplies near barns or corrals
- Projects on steep or tight terrain
- Choose a 40-foot container for:
- Commercial inventory and palletized goods
- Large construction projects with heavy material volumes
- Agricultural equipment and bulk feed storage
- Warehouse overflow and staging
- Container conversions like offices, workshops, and retail setups
Budget, Rental, and Ownership
You want the right fit for cost and commitment.
- Rental options
- 20-foot rentals start around $150 per month
- 40-foot rentals start around $190 per month
- Purchase options
- New one-trip units cost more but arrive in excellent condition with fresh paint and tight seals
- Used units cost less and remain wind and watertight, with some cosmetic wear
If your need is temporary or seasonal, rent. If you plan multi-year use, run the math on purchase. Many buyers start with one 20-foot and add a second later. You can also pair a 20-foot for tools with a 40-foot for bulk materials if your site allows.
Modification Potential
Both sizes modify well. The right length depends on layout.
- 20-foot ideas
- Single-bay workshop or hobby space
- Compact office with desk, insulation, and power
- Tool storage with wall-mounted racks and a workbench
- 40-foot ideas
- Split layout with office in front, storage in back
- Retail or service bay with customer entry
- Multi-room build-outs or larger workshop footprint
Extra height in many 40-foot units supports tall shelving and mezzanine-style storage plans. A 20-foot unit keeps wiring, insulation, and HVAC runs shorter and simpler.
New One-Trip vs Used
I suggest new one-trip containers if appearance and top condition matter, or if you will modify the unit. Doors, gaskets, and floors tend to be cleaner, and paint holds up longer.
Used containers are the smarter value play if you only need secure, watertight storage. Expect some dents and surface rust. With a reputable provider, structure and seals remain sound.
Why I Recommend MoCan Containers in Montana
You want a provider that pairs a large inventory with reliable delivery and real quality control. MoCan Containers checks those boxes.
- Inventory and choice
- One of the largest selections within a 300-mile radius, including both 20-foot and 40-foot units in new and used grades
- Ability to personally inspect and select your exact unit before delivery
- Quality standards
- Every container is inspected for security, durability, and weather resistance
- Units are waterproof, leakproof, wind and watertight, and lockable
- Rental and purchase flexibility
- Competitive rental rates with short-term and long-term options
- Purchase pricing available based on current stock and condition
- Professional delivery
- Tilt-bed trailers and experienced drivers who handle tight, rural, or uneven sites across Billings, Bozeman, and beyond
- Modifications
- Practical upgrades for doors, windows, insulation, power, and custom layouts for shops, offices, and retail
Their local presence in Billings and the Bozeman area helps with fast scheduling and straightforward support if your project scope changes.
Placement Checklist You Can Use Today
Before you schedule delivery, run this list and you will avoid delays.
- Measure a straight approach path that meets clearance needs
- Clear 70 feet for 20-foot units or about 100 feet for 40-foot units
- Confirm firm, level ground and corner supports if needed
- Check overhead lines, branches, and building eaves
- Mark your door swing side to face the most convenient access point
- Confirm weather timing and ground moisture if your site is soft
- Share photos of the site with the provider for driver planning
Decision Guide: Fast Picks
Use these rules if you need a quick call.
- Pick a 20-foot container if:
1. Your site has limited access or tight turns
2. You plan frequent in-and-out access
3. You want easier relocation later
4. Your budget is tight and capacity needs are modest
5. You want a compact workshop or short-run shelving
- Pick a 40-foot container if:
1. You need maximum floor space and taller stacking
2. You plan pallet rows, forklifts, or bulk equipment
4. You want room for future growth without adding a second unit
5. You plan a larger office, retail, or multi-room conversion
Final Take
Start with your site, then your storage plan, then your budget. That order prevents most mistakes. If your property or driveway is tight, a 20-foot unit delivers practical capacity with easy placement. If your space is open and your storage list keeps growing, a 40-foot unit gives you better long-term value per square foot.
For Montana buyers and renters, MoCan Containers brings the right mix of selection, quality checks, and professional delivery. If a bigger unit fits your goals, review current 40-foot options through the link above, then line up a site photo review and schedule delivery with confidence.
