Article to Know on trademark search and Why it is Trending?
Article to Know on trademark search and Why it is Trending?
Blog Article
Trade Mark Search in India Made Easy: A Guide to Quick and Effective Checks
Understanding Trademark Search in India
A trademark search is about examining existing applied or approved trademarks in the official database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps determine whether your chosen trademark is free to use or if it conflicts with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search early in the branding process reduces the risk of infringement and ensures your brand identity remains unique and legally secured.
Why is Trade Mark Search Important?
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just wise—it’s essential for protecting your brand. A thorough search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Ensure your brand is unique
- 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 offers an official platform where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- View results
This tool gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and pending applications, so you can check availability.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark is grouped into a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Choosing the correct class ensures your search is relevant.
For example, apparel brands usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting relevant 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 same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This ensures you catch trademarks that could pose legal issues, 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, official search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:
- Smart filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for small businesses and give confidence that your trademark is clear to register.
Trademark Search for Logo and Device 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 government system supports image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t conflict with 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:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Spot potential conflicts
- Suggest alternatives
- 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 start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Choosing categories
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.
Conclusion
An early trademark search public search of trade marks in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are free to use, protected by law, and fit for filing.
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