Trending Update Blog on find trademark
Trending Update Blog on find trademark
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 means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps verify whether your proposed trademark is free to use or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search before the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your brand identity remains unique and legally protected.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search prior to filing is not just smart—it’s critical for protecting your brand. A careful search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Streamline the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
How to Check a Trade Mark in India?
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official portal where anyone can run a trademark search. To search:
- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Choose the correct class
- View results
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks and pending applications, so you know where your brand stands.
What Are Trademark Classes?
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 relevant.
For example, apparel brands usually search under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Knowing your class 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 identical or similar spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled differently.
This helps you catch trademarks that could lead to confusion, giving you better security 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
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for startups and help ensure your trademark is ready to file.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you must perform a device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your symbol or logo doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While anyone can search, a legal expert brings depth to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Identify hidden risks
- Suggest alternatives
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and legal confidence.
After You Search: What’s Next?
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.
Conclusion
A thorough trademark search in India is the first check trade mark step in securing your identity. It ensures your name, logo or 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 starts with a strong foundation. Report this page