International vs. domestic containers - Trains Magazine

What the two versions have in common is using the same dimensions and methods for interlocking the containers.  The dimensions are based on the 20' and 40' containers.  There also have been, and may still be around, 28' containers for domestic use.  Those are supplied with the standard locking connections as the 20', with an overhang off the front (the 45's and 53's have symmetrical overhang front and back).

Note that it is common to see a 53' domestic container stacked on top of an international on double-stack cars.

There is nothing precluding an international container being used in domestic service, except that it can bulk out too soon.  In fact, once international containers are removed from the ship, they ARE essentially domestic containers.

Going the other direction is near impossible.  Container ships cannot accept our domestic containers below decks.  And stacking them on top is very limited and a PITA.  

This tends to be true for the international 45's, but less of a problem as the container width stays the same.  45' containers cannot be stowed below deck.  

I believe also that most/some domestic containers can't be stacked more than two-high.  That is also limiting on a ship.

There also have been 48' domestic containers, preceding the 53's.  There might still be some around.

Ed