Common Mistakes When Doing Trademark Searches in India

If you’re planning to register a new brand, logo, or business name, you probably know that trademark search is the first and most important step. But here’s the truth — many people rush through this step and end up facing objections, rejections, or even legal disputes later.

In this article, we’ll discuss the most common mistakes people make while doing a trademark search in India — and how you can avoid them with the help of tools like the Trademark Search Tool.

1. Searching Only Exact Matches

Most people simply search for the exact brand name they plan to register. For example, if you want to register “KingWear”, you might just search for KingWear in the trademark database.

But what about similar sounding or visually similar marks like “Kingware”, “Kinqwear”, or “KngWear”?
These can easily cause confusion — and the Trademark Office may reject your application if such marks already exist.

✅ Pro Tip: Always check for phonetically and visually similar trademarks using advanced filters in the Trademark Search Pro dashboard.

2. Ignoring Trademark Classes

Trademarks in India are categorized under 45 different classes based on goods and services. For example,

• Clothing and footwear fall under Class 25

• Education and training under Class 41

• Software under Class 9

A lot of people search in only one class — but what if a similar brand exists in another related class?

✅ Pro Tip: Always check across related trademark classes before filing. You can learn more about classes from our Trademark Class Guide.

3. Not Checking for Pending or Objected Applications

Some people assume that if a trademark is not yet registered, it’s safe to use. That’s a dangerous assumption!

There may be pending or objected marks that can still cause problems later. Even if those applications get refused later, they can delay or complicate your registration.

✅ Pro Tip: Always look for “Objected” and “Advertised” trademarks in the status list. You can easily check this using our Trademark Status Tracker.

4. Skipping Similar Brand Checks on Domain or Company Names

Trademark search isn’t just about legal protection — it’s also about brand identity.
Sometimes a brand name might be free as a trademark, but already taken as a company name or domain.

✅ Pro Tip: Before finalizing your name, check its availability as a domain and company name through reliable consultants like Meerad Group or Corporate Legal Guru.

5. Depending Only on Manual Searches

Manually searching on the government site may seem easy, but it’s often incomplete.
Many entrepreneurs skip advanced options like phonetic search, similar word search, or wildcard search — missing out on conflicting marks.

✅ Pro Tip: Use an AI-powered platform like the Trademark Search Pro Tool that identifies hidden matches and provides a detailed similarity report in seconds.

6. Not Saving or Documenting Your Search Results

One of the biggest mistakes is not keeping a record of your searches.
If someone later challenges your brand, you’ll have no proof that you did a proper search in good faith.

✅ Pro Tip: Download and save your search summary report as a PDF from the Trademark Search Dashboard. It’s quick, professional, and can help you defend your case later.

7. Ignoring Updated Databases

Trademark data changes daily — new filings, objections, withdrawals, and registrations.
If you rely on old or cached data, you might make decisions based on outdated results.

✅ Pro Tip: Always perform a fresh search right before filing. The Trademark Search Pro tool updates automatically using the latest registry data.

8. Not Seeking Professional Help When Needed

Even with tools, you might need an expert’s view on conflicts or objections.
A consultant can help you analyze whether your mark is safe or needs modification before filing.

✅ Pro Tip: Get professional help from Registration Expert or Meerad Group if you’re unsure about similar marks or classes.

9. Forgetting About Renewal and Monitoring

Trademark protection doesn’t end once you file your application. You must renew and monitor it regularly to avoid lapses.

✅ Pro Tip: Use Trademark Search Pro Monitoring to get automatic alerts if someone files a similar mark or your renewal is due.

10. Not Checking International Databases (for Export Businesses)

If you plan to export or operate in multiple countries, don’t stop at Indian trademarks.
You may face conflicts abroad even if your mark is safe in India.

✅ Pro Tip: Check the Madrid Protocol Database and consult experts at ISO Certification Consultant if your business has global plans.

🖼️ Illustrative Image Suggestions

1. Business owner using laptop with “Trademark Search” screen visible

   • Alt text: “Entrepreneur conducting trademark search online in India”

   • Caption: A complete trademark search can save your brand from future disputes.

2. Visual infographic showing “Top 10 Mistakes” checklist

Conclusion – Search Smart, Save Time & Money

Doing a proper trademark search before filing is not optional — it’s your safety net.
A few minutes of smart searching can save you months of objections, hearings, and legal expenses.

That’s why thousands of businesses now trust the Trademark Search Pro tool. It’s fast, accurate, and built for Indian entrepreneurs who value their time and brand identity.

👉 Subscribe today and make sure your trademark is safe, unique, and ready for registration.