The cartridge dimensions of the two may seem similar to each other, but you should remember that there are still other differences that are worth knowing. The brass of the 7.62 is known to be thicker, and this is normally used for more commercial purposes. The .308 is known to be highly similar to the 7.62.
This explains why they can be used interchangeably. One of the differences to consider is the amount of pressure that each ammo will have. The .308 is known to have higher pressure, which means that it can have a stronger recoil when fired. Some only use the .308 in rifles that will be able to take the pressure.