1970
The original company was founded as Japan Line (USA) Ltd. in 1970.

1983
In a management buy-out, the Merit Steamship identity was created on a nationwide basis through the efforts of D. Murray Williams, Maurice Fellis and Leo Kowalski, President & CEO.

1988
Japan Line's successor company, Nippon Liner systems, discontinued direct services to the U.S. East Coast. Merit oversaw the phasing out and the transition to mini land-bridge service via the West Coast, utilizing Merit's network of offices at all major ports.

1994
D. Murray Williams became the company's Chairman and Maurice Fellis was appointed President & CEO.

1998
Maurice Fellis became the company's Chairman and Gilles Langlais was appointed President & CEO.

Present
Merit Steamship continues to play an active role in the industry through their regional representation on the West Coast of the United States.