Trending Update Blog on check trade mark
Trending Update Blog on check trade mark
Blog Article
Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the official database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps identify whether your proposed trademark is available or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation 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 crucial for protecting your brand. A thorough search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Maintain exclusivity
- Streamline the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
How to Check a Trade Mark in India?
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official website 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 tool gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you know where your brand stands.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark belongs to a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Selecting the right class ensures your search is focused.
For example, apparel brands usually search under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting relevant results.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, perform both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you catch trademarks that could lead to confusion, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, government search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer extra features like:
- Smart filters
- Expert analysis
- Detailed reports
These tools make the process easier for small businesses and help ensure your trademark is clear to register.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your trademark includes 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 symbol or logo doesn’t infringe on another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings experience to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Spot potential conflicts
- Suggest alternatives
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and public search of trade marks legal confidence.
Post-Search Steps: Filing Your Trademark
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Preparing documents
- Selecting classes
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Final Thoughts on Trademark Search
An early trademark search in India is the most important step in securing your identity. It ensures your brand assets are unique, legally safe, and ready for registration.
With easy-to-use tools and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page