Trademark Goods and Services Class Codes

In the world of intellectual property (IP), trademarks play a pivotal role in protecting the unique identity of your brand. When you apply for trademark registration, one of the most critical elements is selecting the appropriate goods and services class codes. But what exactly are these codes, and why should you care about them? If you are starting a business or planning to protect your brand in India, understanding the trademark class codes is a must. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about trademark class codes, how to choose the right ones, and why they are so important for your business.

What Are Trademark Goods and Services Class Codes?

When you think of a trademark, you probably imagine a logo, a wordmark, or a symbol that represents your brand. But did you know that trademarks are also categorised into specific “classes” based on the type of products or services they represent? These categories, known as goods and services class codes, are essential to the trademark registration process.

In simple terms, a trademark class code is a numerical code that classifies your product or service under a specific category. These classifications help streamline the trademark registration process, ensuring that similar trademarks are grouped together and that businesses are granted protection for their specific goods and services.

The NICE Classification System and Its Relevance to India

The classification system used in India is based on the NICE Classification, an international system that categorises trademarks into 45 different classes. The NICE Agreement, established in 1957 by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), provides the framework for this classification. It has been adopted by numerous countries to ensure uniformity and consistency in trademark registration.

India officially aligned its trademark classification system with the latest edition of the Nice Classification in September 2019, making it easier for businesses to apply for protection in multiple jurisdictions.

The NICE Classification is divided into:

• 34 classes for goods: These cover physical products such as chemicals, electronics, clothing, and food.
• 11 classes for services: These cover non-tangible products like marketing, consulting, hospitality, and legal services.

Historically, India grouped Classes 43–45 under Class 42. However, in 2010, amendments to the Trade Marks Rules reinstated them as distinct classes, bringing the classification fully in line with international standards.

How to Choose the Right Trademark Class

Choosing the right trademark class can be a daunting task, especially for first-time applicants. But fear not—by considering a few key factors, you can make the process much smoother and more efficient.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Class:

• Type of Product or Service: The nature of your business is the starting point. For example, if you’re selling shoes, you will likely register under Class 25 (clothing, footwear, and headgear). If you are offering software solutions, Class 9 (computers and software) or Class 42 (technology services) may be more appropriate.
• Future Business Plans: Think about your potential expansion. If you plan to diversify into different industries or geographic areas, it’s advisable to select additional classes now to cover those future offerings.
• Avoiding Over-Classification or Under-Classification: Selecting too many classes can be costly and unnecessary, while choosing too few may limit your protection. Aim to select only those classes that accurately represent your current and planned business activities.
• Consulting Trademark Experts: While you can choose a class on your own, working with a trademark attorney or expert can save time and prevent costly mistakes. Professionals can help identify the most strategic class codes based on your business model.

The 45 Classes in Detail: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Below is an overview of the 45 trademark classes. Knowing which class fits your offering ensures your trademark registration provides the best protection possible.

Classes for Goods (1–34)

• Class 1: Chemicals used in industry, science, and agriculture.
• Class 2: Paints, varnishes, lacquers, and preservatives against rust.
• Class 3: Cosmetics, toiletries, and cleaning preparations.
• Class 4: Industrial oils and greases, lubricants, fuels, wax, illuminants, and candles.
• Class 5: Pharmaceuticals, veterinary preparations, dietetic food and supplements, disinfectants, and sanitary products.
• Class 6: Common metals and their alloys, metal building materials.
• Class 7: Machinery and machine tools.
• Class 8: Hand tools and implements.
• Class 9: Electronics, scientific apparatus, and computer software and hardware.
• Class 10: Surgical, medical, dental, and veterinary apparatus and instruments.
• Class 11: Appliances for heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation.
• Class 12: Vehicles and transportation equipment.
• Class 13: Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and fireworks.
• Class 14: Precious metals, jewellery, clocks, and watches.
• Class 15: Musical instruments.
• Class 16: Paper goods, printed matter, office and stationery supplies.
• Class 17: Rubber, plastics, and goods made from these materials.
• Class 18: Leather goods, bags, and travel accessories.
• Class 19: Non-metallic building materials.
• Class 20: Furniture and household furnishings.
• Class 21: Kitchen utensils, cookware, and cleaning tools.
• Class 22: Ropes, string, nets, tents, and tarpaulins.
• Class 23: Yarns and threads for textile use.
• Class 24: Textiles, fabrics, and bed linens.
• Class 25: Clothing, footwear, and headgear.
• Class 26: Lace, embroidery, ribbons, and buttons.
• Class 27: Carpets, rugs, mats, and floor coverings.
• Class 28: Toys, sporting goods, and gym equipment.
• Class 29: Meat, fish, dairy products, and edible oils and fats.
• Class 30: Coffee, tea, cocoa, sugar, rice, and confectionery.
• Class 31: Agricultural, horticultural, and forestry products, fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Class 32: Beverages (non-alcoholic).
• Class 33: Alcoholic beverages (except beer).
• Class 34: Tobacco, smokers’ articles, and matches.

Classes for Services (35–45)

• Class 35: Advertising, business management, marketing, and consultancy.
• Class 36: Financial services, banking, real estate, and insurance.
• Class 37: Construction, installation, and repair services.
• Class 38: Telecommunications, broadcasting, and data transmission.
• Class 39: Transport, packaging, warehousing, and logistics.
• Class 40: Treatment of materials, custom manufacturing, and recycling.
• Class 41: Education, training, entertainment, and cultural activities.
• Class 42: Scientific and technological services, IT services, industrial research, and software design.
• Class 43: Services for providing food and drink, restaurant and catering services, temporary accommodation.
• Class 44: Medical, veterinary, hygienic, and beauty care services; agriculture and horticulture services.
• Class 45: Legal services, security services, and personal and social services.

How to File a Trademark Application in India

Once you have identified the correct class for your goods or services, the next step is filing your trademark application. The process involves submitting your application to the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks (CGPDTM) in India. Here’s a brief step-by-step guide:

1. Trademark Search: Perform a search to ensure your proposed trademark is unique and doesn’t conflict with existing ones.
2. Choosing the Class: Select the class or classes that best represent your goods or services.
3. Filing the Application: Complete the application with details about your trademark and class.
4. Examination: The trademark office examines your application for compliance and potential conflicts.
5. Opposition Period: If there are no objections, the trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for four months for any public opposition.
6. Registration: If no opposition is filed, the trademark is officially registered and you receive a certificate of registration.

The Benefits of Correct Trademark Classification

Registering your trademark under the correct class offers several benefits:

• Stronger Protection: Your trademark is protected specifically for your goods or services.
• Legal Enforcement: In the event of infringement, you can effectively enforce your rights.
• Brand Expansion: Proper classification enhances your brand’s value for franchising or licensing.
• Conflict Avoidance: Minimises the risk of disputes with similar marks.

Final Thoughts

Trademark registration is a foundational step in protecting your brand, and understanding class codes is critical for securing proper legal coverage. By carefully choosing the right trademark class, you ensure robust protection, reduce legal risks, and lay the groundwork for future brand expansion.

Whether you are launching a startup or scaling an established business, remember—choosing the right trademark class is not just procedural; it’s a strategic business decision.

Need help navigating the trademark process? Consult with a trademark expert to ensure your application is filed correctly and your intellectual property is well protected.