Understanding Trademark Classes: A Complete Guide for Beginners

When registering a trademark in India or any other country, selecting the right trademark class is crucial. Trademark classes help in categorizing different types of goods and services to avoid conflicts between businesses operating in distinct industries.

This guide will help you understand trademark classes in simple language so that you can choose the right one for your business.

What Are Trademark Classes?

Trademark classification is divided into 45 classes, where Classes 1-34 cover goods and Classes 35-45 cover services. Every product or service falls under a specific class, and selecting the correct class ensures that your trademark is protected within your industry.

Trademark Classes List with Descriptions

Below is a simplified table listing all trademark classes along with their descriptions to help you choose the right class for your business:

TM Class	Description
Class 1	Chemicals used in industry and science, including adhesives, unprocessed plastics, and fertilizers.
Class 2	Paints, varnishes, colorants, and protective coatings.
Class 3	Cosmetics, perfumes, and cleaning products.
Class 4	Industrial oils, greases, fuels, and candles.
Class 5	Pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and baby food.
Class 6	Metal goods, including building materials and metal hardware.
Class 7	Machinery and machine tools.
Class 8	Hand tools and cutting tools.
Class 9	Electronic and scientific equipment, including software, computers, and cameras.
Class 10	Medical and surgical instruments.
Class 11	Lighting, heating, and cooling equipment.
Class 12	Vehicles and vehicle parts.
Class 13	Firearms, explosives, and ammunition.
Class 14	Jewelry, watches, and precious metals.
Class 15	Musical instruments.
Class 16	Paper products, stationery, and printed materials.
Class 17	Rubber and plastic materials.
Class 18	Leather goods, bags, and luggage.
Class 19	Building materials (non-metallic).
Class 20	Furniture and plastic goods.
Class 21	Kitchenware and household items.
Class 22	Ropes, tents, and tarpaulins.
Class 23	Threads and yarns.
Class 24	Textiles, fabrics, and linens.
Class 25	Clothing, footwear, and headgear.
Class 26	Lace, buttons, and embroidery.
Class 27	Carpets, rugs, and floor coverings.
Class 28	Games, toys, and sports equipment.
Class 29	Food products like meat, dairy, and preserved foods.
Class 30	Coffee, tea, bakery goods, and confectionery.
Class 31	Agricultural and horticultural products, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Class 32	Beverages (non-alcoholic), juices, and soft drinks.
Class 33	Alcoholic beverages (excluding beer).
Class 34	Tobacco and tobacco products.
Class 35	Business management, advertising, and marketing services.
Class 36	Financial and insurance services.
Class 37	Construction and repair services.
Class 38	Telecommunications and broadcasting services.
Class 39	Transportation, travel, and logistics services.
Class 40	Manufacturing and material treatment services.
Class 41	Education, training, and entertainment services.
Class 42	Scientific and technological services, including IT and software development.
Class 43	Hospitality services, restaurants, and catering.
Class 44	Medical and veterinary services.
Class 45	Legal services and security services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I register my trademark under multiple classes?

Yes, you can apply for multiple trademark classes if your business deals in multiple categories of goods or services.

2. What happens if I choose the wrong class?

Choosing the wrong class may lead to rejection of your application or limited protection. It is advisable to consult a trademark expert.

3. Do trademark classes apply worldwide?

Most countries follow the Nice Classification System, making trademark classes similar worldwide.

4. Is there a separate fee for each class?

Yes, trademark registration fees apply separately for each class.

5. Can a similar trademark exist in different classes?

Yes, if businesses operate in unrelated industries, the same or similar trademark may be registered under different classes.

Conclusion

Understanding trademark classes is essential to protecting your brand in the right industry. By selecting the correct trademark class, you ensure your business identity remains unique and legally protected. If you’re unsure about the right class, consult a trademark expert to avoid mistakes in your trademark application.

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