public search of trade marks, the Unique Services/Solutions You Must Know
public search of trade marks, the Unique Services/Solutions You Must Know
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.
Performing 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.
Why is Trade Mark Search Important?
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just wise—it’s critical for ensuring success. A comprehensive search lets you:
- Avoid choosing 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 opposed, wasting time and resources.
How to Check a Trade Mark in India?
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official portal where anyone can perform 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
- Check for matches
This platform gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and pending applications, so you know where your brand stands.
What Are Trademark Classes?
Each trademark is grouped into a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Identifying the proper class ensures your search is relevant.
For example, a clothing label usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class trademark search 9. Understanding this system is key to getting precise results.
Different Types of Trademark Checks
When checking for trademark availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for same or close spellings. A phonetic search finds names that sound alike, even if spelled differently.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The CGPDTM provides a free, government search tool. There are also external platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for small businesses and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you’ll need to perform a device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the government system supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t infringe on another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings depth to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Spot potential conflicts
- Suggest alternatives
- Handle the registration process
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, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks
An early trademark search in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your brand assets 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 needs a strong foundation. Report this page