Why public search of trade marks is a Trending Topic Now?
Why public search of trade marks is a Trending Topic Now?
Blog Article
How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search means reviewing existing applied or approved trademarks in the government-maintained database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps verify whether your desired trademark is available or if it conflicts with any existing mark.
Performing a trademark search before the branding process reduces the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive and legally secured.
Why Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just smart—it’s crucial for ensuring success. A comprehensive search lets you:
- Prevent selecting already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Speed up the registration process
Without careful checking, your trademark application might be rejected, 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:
- Visit the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- Browse the list
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you can check availability.
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. 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. Knowing your class is key to getting relevant results.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark public search of trade marks availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for identical or similar spellings. A sound-based check finds names that sound alike, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you spot trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Resources and Platforms for Trade Mark Checks
The CGPDTM provides a free, government 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 help ensure your trademark is clear to register.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you must perform a visual mark check. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t infringe on another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While individuals can check trademarks, a legal expert brings experience to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Spot potential conflicts
- 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 available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Preparing documents
- Selecting classes
- 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
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 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