Which classes do I pick when trade marking my business name or logo?
When trade marking your business name or logo, it is crucial to carefully choose one or more classes of goods and services that align with your business activities. These classes will define the scope of protection for your trade mark registration.
Trade mark classes categorise goods and services into specific groups based on their nature and function. In Australia, there are a total of 45 classes: classes 1 to 34 cover goods, and classes 35 to 45 cover services. Each class represents a distinct category of products or services.
Identifying Your Business’s Goods or Services:
Start by identifying the goods or services that your business offers or plans to offer under the trade mark. Consider the core products or services that define your business, and also think about any related goods or services you may offer now or in the future. Look at the classes selected for trade mark registration by similar businesses for guidance.
Consulting IP Australia’s Pick List:
IP Australia provides a Pick List to categorise goods and services for trade mark registration purposes. This list offers a standardised compilation of goods and services, along with their corresponding class numbers. Reviewing this list can help you identify the appropriate classes for your trade mark application.
Selecting Relevant Classes:
Choose the classes that best describe the goods or services associated with your business name or logo. Be specific and accurate in your selection to ensure that your trade mark registration provides adequate protection for your business activities. Consider any related or ancillary goods or services that may fall within the same class.
Considering International Expansion:
If you are planning to expand your business internationally, think about selecting classes that are relevant not only in your current market but also in potential future markets. Remember that trade mark protection is territorial, so securing protection in multiple jurisdictions may require filing separate trade mark applications in each country or region.
If you are uncertain about which classes to select for your trade mark application, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Lovemarks. We can help you navigate the complexities of trade mark classification and ensure that your application accurately reflects the scope of your business activities.
