Maxi I Double Stack

Prototype Information

Gunderson introduced the Maxi-Stack I in 1988 to improve the efficiency of intermodal transport. Before this car, many intermodal designs used heavy steel bulkheads to keep containers in place. Gunderson removed these bulky frames and used a lighter steel design to save weight and fuel. The car features a five-unit articulated body with 40-foot wells. This layout allows the car to carry two 20-foot containers or one 40-foot container in each well. Because the top has more space, it can carry longer containers like 48-foot or 53-foot units on top of the base.

The car became a vital tool for international shipping because it fits standard ocean-going containers perfectly. Major railroads like Southern Pacific and companies like Maersk bought hundreds of units during the initial production run through 1990. Even as domestic shipping moved toward larger 53-foot wells, the Maxi I stayed relevant for port traffic. BNSF even ordered more of these cars in 2000 to handle the growing volume of international trade. Today, these cars still form a major part of the North American rail network and help move goods from ports to inland hubs.