Essential Things You Must Know on public search of trade marks
Essential Things You Must Know on public search of trade marks
Blog Article
Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
Trademark Search Basics – What You Need to Know
A trademark search means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure 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 infringement and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
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
- Maintain exclusivity
- Simplify 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 provides an official portal where anyone can perform a trademark search. To search:
- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- Check for matches
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and pending applications, so you can check availability.
What Are Trademark Classes?
Each trademark falls under a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Selecting the right check trade mark class ensures your search is accurate.
For example, apparel brands usually search under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting precise results.
Different Types of Trademark Checks
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 sound alike, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better security before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The CGPDTM provides a free, government search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for new brands and help ensure your trademark is clear to register.
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 the Registry portal supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t conflict with another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While anyone can search, 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.
From Search to Registration: Next Steps
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters review, publication, 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 most important step in securing your identity. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are unique, protected by law, 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