When registering a trademark, one of the most important steps is choosing the correct class for your goods or services. Many applications are rejected or delayed simply because of a wrong class selection. Understanding the classification of goods and services trademark is therefore essential for every entrepreneur, startup, or company owner.
At Corpmate, Ludhiana’s trusted trademark consultants, we help businesses identify the right class, prepare their application, and register their brand successfully. Let’s explore how trademark classification works and why it matters so much.
What is Trademark Classification?
Trademark classification is a system used to categorize goods and services into different groups or “classes.” Each class represents a specific type of product or service. When you register a trademark, you must select the class that best describes your business offerings.
The classification of goods and services trademark ensures that similar trademarks in different industries can coexist. For example, a “Lotus” trademark for a car manufacturer and “Lotus” for a beauty brand can both be registered because they fall under different classes.
This global system, known as the Nice Classification, was established by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and is followed by India’s Trademark Registry.
Purpose of Classification of Goods and Services Trademark
The classification system helps simplify and organize the trademark registration process. Here’s why it’s so important:
- Clear Identification of Goods and Services:
Each class defines the specific products or services covered under your trademark. - Avoiding Conflicts:
Proper classification prevents disputes with existing trademarks in unrelated industries. - Legal Clarity:
It provides legal protection within your specific business category. - Efficient Trademark Search:
It helps applicants and authorities conduct accurate trademark searches before registration. - International Compatibility:
The Nice Classification system is accepted globally, ensuring consistency in trademark protection across countries.
Structure of Trademark Classification System
The classification of goods and services trademark is divided into 45 classes:
- Classes 1 to 34 – Goods
- Classes 35 to 45 – Services
Let’s look at them in detail.
Trademark Classes for Goods (1–34)
These classes cover all physical products and manufactured items.
| Class | Category | Examples |
| 1 | Chemicals | Industrial chemicals, fertilizers, adhesives |
| 2 | Paints | Paints, varnishes, lacquers |
| 3 | Cosmetics | Soaps, perfumes, shampoos |
| 5 | Pharmaceuticals | Medicines, healthcare products |
| 6 | Metal Goods | Locks, doors, building materials |
| 9 | Electronics | Mobile phones, computers, software |
| 14 | Jewelry | Watches, ornaments |
| 18 | Leather Goods | Bags, belts, purses |
| 24 | Textiles | Fabrics, bed sheets, curtains |
| 25 | Clothing | Garments, footwear, headwear |
| 29 | Food Products | Meat, fish, dairy products |
| 30 | Bakery Items | Tea, coffee, confectionery, bread |
| 32 | Beverages | Non-alcoholic drinks, juices |
| 33 | Alcoholic Drinks | Wine, whisky, beer |
| 34 | Tobacco | Cigarettes, smokers’ articles |
(Note: Only select classes are shown for brevity; Corpmate provides the full classification list upon consultation.)
Trademark Classes for Services (35–45)
These classes represent various professional, business, and personal services.
| Class | Category | Examples |
| 35 | Business Services | Advertising, marketing, retail, consultancy |
| 36 | Financial Services | Banking, insurance, real estate |
| 37 | Construction | Building, repair, installation services |
| 38 | Telecommunications | Internet, broadcasting, mobile networks |
| 39 | Transport | Travel, logistics, packaging |
| 41 | Education | Training institutes, academies, schools |
| 42 | Technology | Software development, IT services |
| 43 | Hospitality | Restaurants, hotels, catering |
| 44 | Medical Services | Hospitals, clinics, beauty salons |
| 45 | Legal Services | Legal consultancy, licensing, security services |
Each class specifically represents a niche sector. Registering your trademark under the correct one ensures that your brand receives protection within that scope.
Why Choosing the Correct Class is Important?
Selecting the right class is a crucial part of the trademark registration process. A mistake here can cause delays, rejections, or even legal complications.
Here’s what can happen if you choose the wrong class:
- Your trademark might not protect your actual business activities.
- You could face objections from the Trademark Office.
- You might lose rights to prevent competitors in your actual industry.
That’s why Corpmate offers professional help to identify the correct class for your brand through a thorough trademark classification analysis.
How Corpmate Helps You with Classification of Goods and Services Trademark?
At Corpmate, we specialize in end-to-end trademark assistance, including identifying the right class and filing your application efficiently.
1. Trademark Class Identification
We study your products, services, and business model to determine the correct class under which your brand should be registered.
2. Comprehensive Trademark Search
Before filing, we conduct a professional search to ensure your mark doesn’t conflict with existing trademarks within your class.
3. Multi-Class Applications
If your business operates across different sectors (for example, you sell both clothing and perfumes), Corpmate helps file under multiple classes to ensure full protection.
4. Filing and Legal Support
We manage documentation, application filing, and responses to objections — ensuring your brand gets approved smoothly.
Example: How Classification Works in Real Business Scenarios
Let’s understand with a few examples:
- A fashion boutique in Ludhiana selling clothes should register under Class 25.
- A salon or beauty academy should apply under Class 44 (beauty care services).
- A software development firm must register under Class 42.
- A marketing agency should choose Class 35 for advertising and promotional services.
By choosing Corpmate’s trademark services in Ludhiana, you’ll always know which class is right for your brand — saving time, money, and effort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Trademark Classification
- Registering under an incorrect or broad class that doesn’t match your business.
- Filing for only one class when multiple classes are needed.
- Not updating or expanding classes when your business grows.
- Assuming one trademark registration covers all business categories.
Our experts at Corpmate ensure you avoid these pitfalls and get comprehensive brand protection under the right classification.
Conclusion
Understanding the classification of goods and services trademark is the foundation of a successful trademark registration process. Each class represents a specific business domain, and choosing the right one ensures your brand enjoys complete legal protection.
Whether you are a startup, SME, or established enterprise in Ludhiana, Corpmate simplifies the entire process — from class identification and application filing to renewal and objection handling.
With professional guidance from Corpmate, you can register your trademark under the correct class, safeguard your intellectual property, and establish your brand as a trusted name in the market.