Whole and piece tomato preparations retain recognizable tomato structure and are classified separately from concentrated tomato products such as paste or purée, which are defined by their soluble solids content (Brix level). The degree of concentration and the physical form of the tomato are the key classification criteria. Importers should obtain Brix measurements and product descriptions from suppliers to confirm the correct heading before filing entry.

Given that antidumping measures have applied to canned tomato products from certain countries in the past, importers should obtain a detailed certificate of origin from the foreign manufacturer specifying the country where the tomatoes were grown and processed. If the product involves tomatoes grown in one country but canned in another, substantial transformation rules determine the country of origin for duty purposes, and a binding ruling from CBP may be warranted for high-volume programs.