public search of trade marks, the Unique Services/Solutions You Must Know
public search of trade marks, the Unique Services/Solutions You Must Know
Blog Article
How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
Trademark Search Basics – What You Need to Know
A trademark search involves checking existing applied or approved trademarks in the government-maintained database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps identify whether your desired trademark is available or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
Why Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters
Doing a trade mark search in advance of application is not just wise—it’s essential for avoiding problems. A thorough search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Maintain exclusivity
- Speed up the registration process
Without careful checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check in India
The Trade Marks Registry offers an official platform where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Choose the correct class
- Browse the list
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you can check availability.
Understanding Trademark Classes
Each trademark falls under 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 relevant.
For example, a clothing label usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting relevant results.
Different Types of Trademark Checks
When checking for trademark availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for identical or similar spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled differently.
This ensures you spot trademarks that could lead to confusion, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The Indian IP Office provides a free, government search tool. There are also external platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Smart filters
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for small businesses and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
Trademark Search for Logo and Device Marks
If your trademark includes a logo, you must perform a visual mark check. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but check trade mark the government system supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
The Value of Expert Guidance for Trade Mark Searches
While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings experience to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Spot potential conflicts
- Recommend changes
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and legal confidence.
From Search to Registration: Next Steps
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.
Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks
An early trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It ensures your brand assets are unique, legally safe, and fit for filing.
With easy-to-use tools and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand starts with a strong foundation. Report this page