HO High-Cube DD Plug Box, PC #221000 (ATH88203)

Railroad boxcars are perhaps the best-recognized pieces of equipment ever put into service and also one of the most identifiable symbols of the industry itself. During the early years of the industry, freight was hauled on simple flatcars or early gondolas. The car's development continued to improve over the years, transitioning from basic wood construction with steel outside-bracing. To enhance crew safety, in 1968, the AAR legislated the removal of roof walks. Boxcars needed to be modernized to adhere to the AAR mandate, which was to be completed by 1978 for cars in interchange service. Some of these cars had side and end ladders cut down, and in some cases, modifications included lowering the brake wheel. What made boxcars great, at least in the eyes of the railroads, was their ability to haul about anything. Railroads thrive on redundancy to maximize efficiency.