Article to Know on trademark search and Why it is Trending?
Article to Know on trademark search and Why it is Trending?
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 involves checking existing applied or approved trademarks in the central database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps determine whether your proposed trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Performing a trademark search early in the branding process reduces the risk of infringement and ensures your trademark identity remains unique and legally secured.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just wise—it’s crucial for avoiding problems. A careful search lets you:
- Prevent selecting already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Streamline the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
Where and How to Search for Trade Marks in India
The Trade Marks Registry provides an official platform where anyone can run a trademark search. To search:
- Visit the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Select the correct class
- View results
This platform 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. Identifying the proper class ensures your search is focused.
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.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, do both wordmark and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, find trademark giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The CGPDTM provides a free, official search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:
- Search filters
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and give confidence that your trademark is clear to register.
How to Check Logo Trademarks
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 infringe on another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
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
- Recommend changes
- Handle the registration process
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and legal confidence.
Post-Search Steps: Filing Your Trademark
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.
Conclusion
An early trademark search in India is the most important 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 starts with a strong foundation. Report this page