Essential Things You Must Know on check trade mark
Essential Things You Must Know on check trade mark
Blog Article
How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search involves checking existing applied or approved trademarks in the central database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps verify whether your desired trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search before the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your trademark identity remains unique and legally protected.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just wise—it’s critical for ensuring success. A careful search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Speed up the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
How to Check a Trade Mark in India?
The Trade Marks Registry provides an official platform where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- Browse the list
This tool gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and pending applications, so you can check availability.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark is grouped into a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Identifying the proper class ensures your search is focused.
For example, apparel brands usually fall under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting relevant results.
Why You Should Do Both Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, do both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that sound alike, even if spelled differently.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better security before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, official search tool. There are also private platforms that offer extra features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Detailed reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and give confidence that your trademark is clear to register.
How to Check Logo Trademarks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you must perform a device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the government system supports image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings clarity to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Identify hidden risks
- Recommend changes
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and peace of mind.
After You Search: What’s Next?
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks
A proper trademark search in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your name, logo or check trade mark slogan are free to use, legally safe, and fit for filing.
With simple search platforms and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page