Pacer Stacktrain pioneered the use of double-stack rail technology for containerized freight in 1984 under its former operator, APL. That triggered the development of today's domestic container-transportation industry and made intermodal fully competitive with over-the-road transportation.

As a result of an acquisition concluded in 1999, the APL Stacktrain system became part of the Pacer International group. Pacer and APL continue to collaborate closely. We at Pacer are committed to ensuring that Pacer Stacktrain will remain your first choice for domestic Stacktrain transportation in North America!

1984
Stacktrain technology is developed at APL Stacktrain, the predecessor of Pacer Stacktrain. This innovation doubles train capacity by stacking containers two high on specially designed railcars, enabling the efficient integration of international and domestic shipments.

1986
We introduce the first 48-foot stacktrain container for domestic use in the United States. Today our fleet of 48-foot containers is the largest in the Continental U.S.

1989
The first 53-foot container for U.S. domestic use rolls into service. Pacer Stacktrain is America's largest supplier of 53-foot-capacity containers, with 3,000 on the rails today.

1999
Pacer International acquires APL Stacktrain. The new Pacer Stacktrain company combines extensive intermodal experience with sophisticated equipment to bring outstanding value to customers throughout the United States.

2000
Pacer volume hits 1 million annualized loads. New Pacer Stacktrain shipment options are introduced to & from Mexico.

2004
Pacer Stacktrain celebrates 20 years of Stacktrain innovation including designing the new standard in 53' - 110" steel containers.