Ships are categorized by their hull classification code (based on the Naval Vessel Register, www.nvr.navy.mil).
- Commissioned ships are separated from decommissioned ships, and the distinction is noted.
- If a ship had more than one hull classification during its life, it should be listed in the class it had at final decommissioning. Example: USS Wright - CVL49, AVT7, CC2; is listed as a command ship (CC) and thus in Surface_Combatants/Command/USS_Wright. Links from the previous hull classes to the final class should be present.
- If more than one hull had the same name (but a different hull classification code), each hull should be listed separately in the appropriate hull category and there should be "related category" links between the ships.
- If two or more hulls have the same name AND the same hull classification code, all information relating to those hulls is found together in the same subdirectory. Example: USS Alabama - BB8, BB60.