Understanding Trademark Classes: How to Choose the Right One for Your Business?
Registering a trademark is a crucial step in protecting your brand identity, but many businesses overlook an important factor—choosing the right trademark class. Trademarks in India are categorized into 45 different classes, each covering specific types of goods or services. Selecting the wrong class can lead to legal issues, rejection of registration, or limited protection.
For businesses in Delhi, where competition is high, ensuring that your trademark is filed correctly can prevent brand disputes and strengthen legal protection. Whether you’re launching a tech startup, a clothing brand, or a food business, understanding trademark classes helps in securing exclusive rights over your brand name and logo.
In this guide, we will explore what trademark classes are, how to choose the right one, and common mistakes to avoid—along with a real-world case study on trademark registration in Delhi.
What Are Trademark Classes? (150-200 words)
Trademark classes are a categorization system used in India and globally to classify trademarks based on the type of goods or services they represent. The Indian trademark system follows the Nice Classification (NCL), which divides trademarks into 45 different classes.
Breakdown of Trademark Classes
- Classes 1-34: Cover goods/products (e.g., Class 3 for cosmetics, Class 25 for clothing, Class 9 for technology products).
- Classes 35-45: Cover services (e.g., Class 35 for business consultancy, Class 41 for education, Class 42 for IT services).
Why Choosing the Right Trademark Class is Crucial
- Registering under the wrong class can lead to trademark rejection or limited protection.
- A trademark only offers exclusive rights in the class it is registered under.
- If your business operates in multiple categories, you may need to register under multiple classes.
For example, an app development company in Delhi may register under Class 42 (IT services), but if they also sell branded software products, they may need Class 9 (software programs and applications) as well.
Understanding trademark classes is the first step in ensuring strong legal protection for your business.
Complete List of Trademark Classes
In India, trademarks are categorized into 45 different classes under the Nice Classification System. Below is a detailed list of all trademark classes, divided into goods (Classes 1-34) and services (Classes 35-45): Complete List of Trademark Classes (Table Format – Comprehensive List) (200-250 words)
| Class No. | Category | Examples |
| 1 | Chemicals | Industrial chemicals, adhesives, fertilizers |
| 2 | Paints | Paints, varnishes, dyes, colorants |
| 3 | Cosmetics & Cleaning Products | Perfumes, skincare, detergents |
| 4 | Lubricants & Fuels | Industrial oils, motor fuel, waxes |
| 5 | Pharmaceuticals | Medicines, dietary supplements, medical products |
| 6 | Metal Products | Common metals, hardware, metal doors & windows |
| 7 | Machinery | Motors, engines, machine tools |
| 8 | Hand Tools | Hand-operated tools, cutlery, razors |
| 9 | Technology Products | Software, electronics, computers, mobile phones |
| 10 | Medical Devices | Surgical instruments, diagnostic tools, prosthetics |
| 11 | Appliances | Air conditioners, water purifiers, lighting products |
| 12 | Vehicles | Cars, bicycles, aircraft, tires |
| 13 | Firearms | Weapons, ammunition, explosives |
| 14 | Jewelry | Watches, precious metals, gemstones |
| 15 | Musical Instruments | Guitars, pianos, music accessories |
| 16 | Paper Products | Stationery, newspapers, packaging materials |
| 17 | Rubber & Plastics | Insulation materials, flexible plastic pipes |
| 18 | Leather Goods | Bags, wallets, belts, luggage |
| 19 | Building Materials | Timber, cement, non-metallic doors |
| 20 | Furniture | Mattresses, mirrors, wooden products |
| 21 | Household Items | Kitchen utensils, glassware, brushes |
| 22 | Ropes & Fibers | Tents, nets, sacks, stuffing materials |
| 23 | Yarns & Threads | Sewing threads, textile fibers |
| 24 | Fabrics & Textiles | Bed sheets, curtains, towels |
| 25 | Clothing & Footwear | Apparel, shoes, headgear |
| 26 | Sewing Accessories | Buttons, zippers, ribbons |
| 27 | Carpets & Floor Coverings | Rugs, mats, artificial grass |
| 28 | Toys & Sporting Goods | Board games, sports equipment, fitness gear |
| 29 | Food Products | Meat, dairy, preserved foods, nuts |
| 30 | Processed Foods & Beverages | Coffee, tea, bakery items, condiments |
| 31 | Agricultural Products | Fresh fruits, vegetables, livestock |
| 32 | Non-Alcoholic Beverages | Soft drinks, fruit juices, mineral water |
| 33 | Alcoholic Beverages | Spirits, wine, beer |
| 34 | Tobacco Products | Cigarettes, cigars, smoking accessories |
| Class No. | Category | Examples |
| 35 | Business & Advertising | Marketing, business consulting, retail services |
| 36 | Financial Services | Banking, insurance, real estate, investment services |
| 37 | Construction & Repair | Building construction, plumbing, electrical services |
| 38 | Telecommunications | Internet services, broadcasting, network services |
| 39 | Transportation & Logistics | Delivery services, warehousing, vehicle rental |
| 40 | Manufacturing & Treatment | Custom manufacturing, textile treatment |
| 41 | Education & Training | Schools, coaching centers, online courses |
| 42 | IT & Software Services | Software development, AI services, cybersecurity |
| 43 | Food & Hospitality | Hotels, restaurants, catering services |
| 44 | Medical & Beauty Services | Hospitals, skincare clinics, veterinary services |
| 45 | Legal & Security Services | Law firms, personal security, arbitration services |
Choosing the correct trademark class is essential for protecting your brand and ensuring legal security. Whether you’re registering a product or service, understanding trademark classifications prevents future disputes and strengthens your brand’s exclusivity. Filing under the wrong class can limit your protection or lead to rejection, so professional guidance is key.
Looking to register your trademark hassle-free? Let the experts at Bhandari Legal handle the process for you. From class selection to successful registration, we ensure your brand is legally secured. Get started with your trademark registration today!
