When you apply for a trademark, one of the most important steps before registration is conducting a trademark search. But what many people don’t realize is that every product or service falls under a specific trademark class. Understanding what is class in trademark search helps you protect your brand effectively and ensures that your trademark application doesn’t get rejected due to overlap or similarity.
In this article, we’ll explain in detail what is class in trademark search, why it’s important, and how to choose the correct class for your business with the help of Corpmate, your trusted Trademark Consultant in Ludhiana.
Understanding What is Class in Trademark Search
The term “class” in trademark search refers to a specific category under which a product or service is classified during trademark registration. The Nice Classification System, established under the Nice Agreement (1957), divides all goods and services into 45 trademark classes — Classes 1 to 34 for goods and Classes 35 to 45 for services.
Each class represents a unique business sector or type of goods/services. For example:
- Class 25 covers clothing, footwear, and headgear.
- Class 3 includes cosmetics and cleaning products.
- Class 35 refers to advertising, business management, and office functions.
When you file a trademark, you must specify the correct class that matches your product or service. This ensures your trademark rights are protected in that particular business category.
Why Trademark Class Matters
Now that you understand what is class in trademark search, it’s crucial to know why it matters. Choosing the wrong class can cause major problems, such as:
- Rejection of Application – If your class does not align with your goods or services, the trademark registrar may reject your application.
- Limited Protection – Your trademark will only be protected in the class you register. For example, a trademark for “Corpmate” under Class 35 (Business Consultancy) doesn’t automatically protect it under Class 41 (Education Services).
- Legal Disputes – Overlapping classes can lead to objections or legal challenges from other trademark owners.
- Rebranding Costs – Filing under the wrong class might force you to restart the registration process, leading to wasted time and money.
At Corpmate, our Trademark Experts in Ludhiana help you choose the right class based on your business model and future growth plans, ensuring complete brand protection.
How to Identify the Correct Trademark Class
Here’s a simple step-by-step process to identify your correct trademark class:
1. List Your Goods or Services
Start by writing down all products or services your business offers. This list will help you narrow down your options.
2. Refer to the Nice Classification List
You can visit the official IP India website or consult Corpmate’s trademark experts in Ludhiana for a detailed list of all 45 classes. Each class comes with a description and examples.
3. Find the Closest Match
Match your goods or services with the corresponding class. If your business offers multiple categories, you may need to register in more than one class.
4. Conduct a Trademark Search
Once you identify the relevant class, conduct a trademark search in that class. This helps you find out if similar or identical trademarks already exist.
5. Seek Professional Help
Since classification can get tricky, it’s best to take guidance from Corpmate’s trademark consultants in Ludhiana. They can help you file in the right class and avoid any legal complications.
Example of Trademark Classes
Here are some common examples that make it easier to understand what is class in trademark search:
| Class No. | Category | Examples |
| Class 3 | Cosmetics, cleaning products | Soaps, perfumes, shampoos |
| Class 9 | Electronics and software | Computers, mobile apps, cameras |
| Class 25 | Clothing and footwear | T-shirts, jeans, shoes |
| Class 30 | Food products | Coffee, tea, confectionery |
| Class 35 | Business and advertising | Marketing, business consultancy |
| Class 41 | Education and training | Coaching centers, workshops |
If your business sells clothing and also runs a beauty brand, you may need to apply under Class 25 and Class 3 both.
Why Choose Corpmate for Trademark Classification in Ludhiana
Corpmate offers complete trademark registration and classification services in Ludhiana. Our experts ensure your trademark application is filed correctly, efficiently, and in compliance with the Indian Trademark Act, 1999.
Here’s what makes Corpmate the best choice for trademark registration and consultation:
- Accurate Trademark Classification: We help you select the most suitable class based on your products and services.
- Comprehensive Trademark Search: Our team conducts detailed searches to ensure your mark is unique and available.
- End-to-End Support: From filing to registration and renewal, we manage the complete process.
- Affordable Pricing: Get premium legal and professional services at competitive rates.
- Ludhiana-Based Expertise: Local understanding of businesses and industries helps us offer personalized advice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Trademark Class Selection
When it comes to what is class in trademark search, many applicants make avoidable errors. Here’s what to avoid:
- Selecting an Incorrect Class: Filing under a wrong class offers no legal protection for your actual product.
- Ignoring Future Expansion: Always consider future products/services while selecting a class.
- Not Conducting a Search: Skipping a trademark search can lead to legal conflicts.
- Overlapping Applications: Registering the same brand in multiple irrelevant classes can waste money.
Professional guidance from Corpmate, Ludhiana’s leading trademark consultant, ensures you avoid these mistakes.
Conclusion
So, what is class in trademark search? It’s the backbone of your trademark registration process. The classification defines where your trademark will be legally protected and helps avoid conflicts with other brands.Selecting the correct class requires knowledge, experience, and attention to detail — something Corpmate’s expert team in Ludhiana specializes in. Whether you’re registering your first trademark or expanding into new product categories, our professionals ensure a smooth, hassle-free process.