Natural bitumen and asphalt under 2714 occur in geological deposits and are extracted without refinery processing, whereas petroleum bitumen under 2713 is a residue produced during crude-oil distillation. Documentation from the supplier describing the extraction method and origin — mined versus refinery-derived — is the primary basis for classification.

Tar sands classified under 271410 are mineral commodities and do not trigger mandatory admissibility review by food or drug agencies. However, importers should verify whether any environmental or energy-sector regulations apply to the intended end use, and confirm classification with a licensed customs broker, as the line between raw bituminous rock and processed material can affect duty treatment.