Iron ore fines and lump ore are non-agglomerated and classified accordingly under customs schedules, while pellets — produced by balling and firing fine ore — are considered agglomerated and fall under a separate HTS provision. The agglomeration distinction can affect duty treatment, so importers should verify the product form with their supplier's mill certificate before filing entry.

Standard benchmark pricing is typically set at a reference Fe grade (commonly 62% Fe for fines), with price adjustments applied for higher or lower iron content and penalties for excess silica, alumina, phosphorus, or moisture. Trade contracts and certificates of analysis must specify these parameters, and customs entry documentation should reflect the actual grade to support accurate valuation.