APL History


From a first American steamer voyage from New York to the US West Coast during the California Gold Rush of 1849, APL has continued its legacy of being at the forefront of the global shipping industry. This is our history and the foundation of what makes APL an industry leader in container shipping.

Over the course of these 160 years, the business that APL and its predecessors built has touched the lives of millions of people, involved virtually every country in the world, and shaped the future of ocean transportation. Though you’re reading about an illustrious past, ours is a story with a clear vision of the future.

Choose any moment, and you’ll see an organization that has consistently led the industry through innovation. Beginning with the entrepreneurial spirit of William Henry Aspinwall, the leadership of the company we know today as APL has held an unwavering commitment to progress. You’ll learn how that visionary approach has bridged geographic gaps and cultural differences in the Pacific, helping to build one of the largest trading areas in the world.

As you make your way through our journey, you’ll see as much of the future as you do the past. And in the many photos of the people who played a part in making APL what it is today, you’ll recognize hallmarks of a truly dynamic business – a legacy of foresight, an eagerness to explore, and a drive to innovate.

Problem seeing the movie?
QuickTime plug-in is needed.

View our Quicktime movie to experience APL’s history in motion. Trace the development of graceful 19th century steamers as they evolve into today’s huge, ultramodern containerships. Experience APL’s famous luxury-liner in all its style and splendor. Learn how cargo was hoisted aboard ships using slings and hooks - a practice that’s hundreds of years old - and how containerization has streamlined the way cargo is transported around the world today.

APL Services

Our Offices – Global Capabilities, Local Expertise With more than 200 offices across the globe, APL is always ready to move your business forward and help you expand.

Our sales, customer support and operations teams understand local market conditions and can provide expert advice to help you make the most of business opportunities. And if you’re thinking of tapping into new markets, you will often discover that we are already there to help pave the way for you. After all, APL has a strong tradition as a pioneer, being one of the first carriers to move into emerging markets, such as Vietnam, India and China. APL’s local know-how and networks will help you leverage emerging opportunities.

APL Business

Our partnership with some of the world’s best-known brands and success in fostering trade in emerging markets has helped defined global trade, setting new benchmarks in service innovation and excellence in every market we serve.
Today, we offer a scale of container transportation solutions that few can match:
· Seamless global connectivity
· Highly competitive transit times
· Industry-leading schedule reliability
· Extensive intermodal network to facilitate inland reach
· Two state-of-the-art intermodal terminals in the US West Coast
· Priority access to strategic Asian terminals
· Comprehensive fleet of vessels and modern equipment
· Integrated supply chain solutions with APL Logistics
· Excellent customer service widely recognized in the industry
· Vertical expertise who understand your special shipping needs
· Over 4,000 committed staff in 200 offices
Read more about how our people go beyond their responsibilities to move your business forward:
Sales Professional - Your Business Is In Good Hands
Quality Customer Service - Real People, Real Trust
Operations Expert - Excellence Is All In A Day's Work
Vertical Specialist - Handling Your Goods With Care
Innovator - Pushing The Boundaries With You