The 5.25 m² threshold applies to individual pieces or units within the shipment, not to the aggregate shipment area. A single container may include both small-area pieces (≤5.25 m², classified under 5703392030) and larger pieces (>5.25 m², classified under 5703392090), and each should be reported under its respective 10-digit line. Mixing sizes on a single entry line is a common classification error.

The manufacturing process is the key distinction: tufted carpets are made by inserting yarn into a pre-woven backing using needles, creating a pile or loop surface, while woven carpets interlace warp and weft yarns to form the structure. Tufted polypropylene carpets fall under heading 5703, whereas woven polypropylene carpets fall under heading 5702. Physical examination of the backing — tufted goods typically show a secondary latex or fabric backing — is the standard verification method.