Why standard and full-load displacement differ

What is the difference between standard-load and full-load displacement?

Standard load omits fuel, water and some stores, while full load includes the consumables carried for operations.

Published displacement figures can differ sharply because standard displacement excludes fuel, water and some other stores needed for an operational voyage. Full-load displacement adds those variable weights to the hull, machinery, armour and weapons already aboard. The distinction matters whenever ships are compared for draft, endurance, speed or treaty compliance.