Trending Update Blog on public search of trade marks
Trending Update Blog on public search of trade marks
Blog Article
Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
Understanding Trademark Search in India
A trademark search is about examining existing applied or approved trademarks in the central database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps verify whether your desired 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 brand identity remains unique and legally secured.
Why Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters
Doing a trade mark search prior to filing is not just smart—it’s crucial for avoiding problems. A thorough search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Simplify the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check in India
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official website where anyone can do 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
- Browse the list
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 fall under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting precise 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 identical or similar spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled differently.
This ensures you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better security before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The Indian IP Office provides a free, official search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer extra features like:
- Smart filters
- Expert analysis
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for startups 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 device trademark search 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 conflict with 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:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Identify hidden risks
- Suggest alternatives
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and legal confidence.
From Search to Registration: Next Steps
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.
Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks
A proper trademark search in India is the first step in protecting your brand. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are unique, legally safe, and ready for registration.
With simple search platforms and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page