Different metal ores can fall under distinct HTS headings with varying duty rates and potential trade-remedy measures such as Section 232 or antidumping orders. Misclassifying an ore at entry can result in underpayment of duties or incorrect admissibility determinations, so verifying the specific mineral composition against the tariff schedule is essential.

Major metal ores — iron, copper, nickel, aluminum (bauxite), lead, zinc, tin, and precious metals — each have dedicated NAICS and HTS headings. 'Other metal ores' captures the residual set, including ores of titanium, manganese, chromium, tungsten, and similar specialty metals not enumerated elsewhere.