The KMQ wagons were a stop gap measure until more bogie container wagons were built.
They were converted from _U__, _T__ and KAB_ underframes scrapped between 1974 and 1984. Many of the U and T bodies were sold and still exist in paddocks around Victoria.
The number group was 1 to 314.
Originally the number boards were raised at the left hand end. However the loading and unloading of containers caused these panels to be damaged. Wagons were gradually modified with centre panels on the underframe.
For special use, several KMQ wagons were fitted with container locks to suit 3 metre containers. This was for Dyers traffic between Sale and Dandenong.
For explosives traffic, several KMQ's were painted a bright orange.