The Blog on public search tm
The Blog on public search tm
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 applied or approved trademarks in the central database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps determine whether your proposed trademark is free to use or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your brand identity remains unique and legally secured.
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
- Prevent future disputes
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Streamline the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be denied, 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
- View results
This platform gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and filed requests, so you can check availability.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark falls under 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 accurate.
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 identical or similar spellings. A phonetic search finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you spot trademarks that could lead to confusion, 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, government search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify trademark checking public search tm for new brands and help ensure 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 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 symbol or logo doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings clarity to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Identify hidden risks
- Suggest alternatives
- Support filing and follow-up
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
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, 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 first step in protecting your brand. It ensures your brand assets are free to use, legally safe, and ready for registration.
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