How to Search Class 11 Trademarks Online Before Registration

In the fast-paced world of electrical appliances and lighting brands, protecting your brand is non-negotiable. One of the most critical steps before filing a trademark under Class 11 is conducting a proper trademark search. Skipping this step can lead to objections, legal trouble, and loss of money and time. This blog will guide you step-by-step on how to search for Class 11 trademarks online and ensure your brand name is unique and available.

🌐 What Is Trademark Class 11?

Trademark Class 11 under the Nice Classification system includes:

• Lighting apparatus
• Heating and cooling appliances
• Cooking equipment
• Sanitary installations
• Refrigerating devices
• Air conditioners
• Fans, electric lights, ovens, geysers, water purifiers, etc.

Any business involved in manufacturing or selling these products must register their trademark in Class 11 to gain protection and avoid infringement issues.

🔍 Why Conduct a Trademark Search Before Filing?

Before you spend money on trademark registration, it’s essential to check if the name, logo, or slogan you want to use is already taken or too similar to an existing one. A proper trademark search helps you:

• Avoid trademark objections
• Prevent infringement lawsuits
• Save time and money
• Build a strong brand identity
• Ensure smooth registration process

🛠️ Tools You Can Use to Search Class 11 Trademarks Online

To search for trademarks in Class 11 in India, you can use the official website of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDTM):

👉 https://ipindia.gov.in

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Internet connection
• Brand name or keyword
• Knowledge of relevant class (Class 11)

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Searching Class 11 Trademarks Online

Step 1: Visit the IP India Trademark Search Portal

1. Go to the IP India website: https://ipindia.gov.in
2. Click on “Public Search” under the “Trade Marks” section.

This will open the Trademark Search Interface.

Step 2: Choose the Correct Search Type

There are three search types you can use:

• Wordmark Search: To search names or text-based trademarks.
• Vienna Code Search: For logo or image trademarks.
• Phonetic Search: For names that sound similar.

For Class 11 product names, Wordmark Search is most commonly used.

Step 3: Select the Appropriate Class

In the search form, you’ll see a box labeled Class. Type 11 here to narrow the results to only Class 11 trademarks.

This ensures you get relevant data about trademarks related to lighting, electrical, and heating/cooling products.

Step 4: Enter the Brand Name or Keyword

Now, enter the brand name or product keyword in the “Wordmark” field.

Example: If your brand is “GlowTech,” type “GlowTech” and press enter.

You can use wildcards like % if you want broader results.
E.g., %Glow% will show names containing the word “Glow.”

Step 5: Analyze the Results

The system will show you:

• Trademark name
• Application number
• Status (e.g., Accepted, Registered, Objected, Withdrawn)
• Class (Make sure it says “11”)
• Applicant’s name

Look for any identical or similar names. If one exists, you may want to tweak your brand name to avoid conflict.

Step 6: Conduct a Phonetic Search (Optional)

To ensure someone hasn’t filed a similar-sounding trademark (e.g., “GloTech”), do a phonetic search.

This will protect you from objections based on “confusing similarity.”

Step 7: Take Notes or Screenshots

It’s good practice to save your findings, especially if you plan to consult with a trademark attorney. Take screenshots or download a report if available.

🔄 What to Do If a Similar Trademark Exists?

If the same or a confusingly similar trademark is found in Class 11:

• Avoid using that name for filing.
• Modify your brand name slightly to create uniqueness.
• Add a prefix/suffix (e.g., “GlowTech Pro” or “GlowTech Electric”).
• Check other trademark classes if your products overlap.

Always choose a name that’s distinctive, not descriptive, and not generic.

🧠 Expert Tips for Class 11 Trademark Searches

1. Use multiple search methods – try both wordmark and phonetic searches.
2. Avoid common words like “Light,” “Cool,” or “Heat” alone—they are likely taken.
3. Check spelling variations – people often misspell or intentionally tweak names.
4. Be creative but clear – made-up words are easier to protect.
5. Consult a professional – get a trademark attorney’s input for final clearance.

⚖️ Legal Risks of Skipping a Trademark Search

If you skip a Class 11 trademark search, you may face:

• Rejection during examination
• Opposition from other brands
• Lawsuits for trademark infringement
• Product recalls
• Brand damage

Preventing these is as simple as investing 20 minutes into a proper online search.

📘 Real-Life Example

A startup brand named “CoolRay” for ceiling fans filed for a trademark in Class 11. However, a company already owned a similar mark “CoolRey” for air coolers. The application was rejected due to phonetic similarity, costing the startup money and delaying their product launch by 8 months.

🚀 After a Successful Trademark Search: What’s Next?

Once your search confirms that your brand name is available under Class 11:

1. Prepare necessary documents (ID proof, logo, business registration)
2. Draft a clear and strong trademark application
3. File online via the IP India portal
4. Track your application status regularly
5. Respond to any objections professionally

📂 Required Documents for Class 11 Trademark Filing

After your successful search, keep these ready:

• Applicant’s ID & address proof
• Proof of business registration
• Logo (if applying for image-based trademark)
• MSME or Startup Certificate (for fee discount)
• Power of Attorney (if filing via agent)

⏳ Trademark Filing Timeline in India

💸 Cost of Trademark Filing (as of 2025)

🧾 Final Checklist: Trademark Search in Class 11

✅ Use official trademark search tool
✅ Search by Wordmark and Phonetic filters
✅ Search Class 11 only
✅ Use variations and wildcard symbols
✅ Analyze each result’s status
✅ Take screenshots for records
✅ Modify your brand if needed
✅ Consult a legal expert if in doubt

🏁 Conclusion

Searching for a Class 11 trademark online is the first and most important step toward protecting your lighting, cooling, or heating brand in India. With proper research, you avoid legal trouble, save costs, and set your business up for long-term success.

If you’re still unsure or want to fast-track your trademark process with professional help, VMK Professionals is here to guide you at every step.

⚙️ About VMK Professionals

VMK Professionals is India’s trusted name in trademark registration, intellectual property rights, and legal compliance. Whether you’re launching a new LED brand or expanding your air conditioning product line, we help ensure your trademark is protected from day one.

📞 Contact Us Today to secure your Class 11 trademark — and your brand’s future.