Work through the chapter systematically: if the article is tableware or kitchenware, it belongs in 6911 or 6912; if ornamental, in 6913; if a tile or paving slab, in 6907–6908; if a pipe or conduit fitting, in 6906. Only after ruling out all specific headings should 6914 be used. A binding ruling from CBP is advisable for novel or borderline technical components.

Section 301 measures apply to goods of Chinese origin across many ceramic tariff lines, including those under 6914. Antidumping or countervailing duty orders on specific ceramic products from particular countries can also apply at the 10-digit level, so importers should check the current AD/CVD order list against the precise tariff line and country of origin.