Abstract: A stanchion or hitch for supporting a semi-trailer on a rail car includes a vertical support member having a base end and a top end with a fifth wheel attached to the top end. A base member is attached to the base end of the vertical support member. The base member includes a plurality of releasable connectors for attaching the base member to the bed of the rail car. The fifth wheel is pivotably attached to the vertical support member and includes a king pin protruding from a lower surface for enabling the fifth wheel to be coupled to a fifth wheel on a yard tractor. A diagonal brace extends between the base member and the vertical support member to prevent collapse of the vertical support member. The rail car bed is modified to accept the connectors on the base member in multiple positions so that the stanchion is selectably positionable at various locations on the rail car.