In the fast-growing automotive industry, protecting your brand is more crucial than ever. Whether you manufacture cars, bikes, or transportation equipment, filing a trademark under Class 12 helps secure your brand identity. But before you file, a trademark search is absolutely essential.
Conducting a thorough online search for Class 12 trademarks can save your business from legal trouble, objections, and costly delays. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to search for Class 12 trademarks online in India before filing your application.
🚗 What is Class 12 in Trademark Registration?
Under the Nice Classification system (adopted globally), trademarks are categorized into 45 different classes.
Trademark Class 12 covers:
- Automobiles and motorcycles
- Electric vehicles and their components
- Vehicle bodies, engines, brakes, and parts
- Tractors, trailers, and parts
- Marine and air transport equipment
If your brand deals in the manufacturing, selling, or distributing of any transportation-related goods, Class 12 is where your trademark application should go.
🔎 Why is a Trademark Search Important Before Filing?
Skipping a trademark search before filing is one of the most common mistakes business owners make. Here’s why a Class 12 trademark search is essential:
1. Avoid Legal Conflicts
A pre-existing similar or identical trademark in Class 12 can lead to your application being opposed or rejected.
2. Save Time and Money
Trademark filing involves fees. If your mark is rejected due to similarity, you’ll lose money and have to start over.
3. Protect Your Brand Reputation
Using a trademark that’s already taken may lead to consumer confusion or damage your brand’s credibility.
4. Check for Distinctiveness
It helps ensure your mark is unique and stands a better chance of approval.
📈 Step-by-Step: How to Search for Class 12 Trademarks Online
You can conduct a free trademark search using the IP India Public Search Tool, which is the official platform by the Indian Government.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the IP India Trademark Search Portal
Step 2: Choose the Search Type
There are three main search types:
- Wordmark: For names or words (e.g., Tata, Bajaj)
- Vienna Code: For logos or images
- Phonetic: For similar-sounding names
Step 3: Select Class 12
In the “Class” field, enter 12 to filter trademarks only in the automotive category.
Step 4: Enter the Wordmark
Type your proposed brand name. Use wildcard characters for broad results:
*for multiple characters (e.g., auto)?for a single character (e.g., a?tocar)
Step 5: Click ‘Search’
Review the list of existing trademarks, their status, and owner details.
📑 Tips for Analyzing the Results
Once the results are displayed, look for:
1. Status of the Mark
- Registered: Already protected and not available
- Objected/Opposed: May face legal hurdles
- Abandoned: May be available, but still needs caution
2. Similarity in Name/Appearance
Compare your mark with existing ones for visual or phonetic similarities.
3. Goods Description
Ensure that the existing marks deal with similar goods under Class 12. Even slight overlap can cause objections.
🏦 Example: Trademark Search for “SpeedoRide”
Suppose you plan to launch electric scooters under the brand name “SpeedoRide.”
Step-by-Step:
- Visit the portal and select Wordmark
- Enter “SpeedoRide” or use wildcard like “Speedo*”
- Choose Class 12
- Click Search
If no similar mark is found or if existing marks are abandoned, you may proceed with the filing.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid During Trademark Search
1. Not Using Wildcards
You may miss variations. For example, “RideFast” may be registered, but you searched only for “FastRide.”
2. Ignoring Phonetic Similarities
Names like “Autotek” and “Autotech” can sound similar and may cause objections.
3. Only Searching in Class 12
Some marks in other classes may still have reputation overlap. Consider searching Classes 9, 35, and 37 as well.
🔢 Tools to Enhance Your Trademark Search
Besides the IP India tool, you can also use:
- WIPO Global Brand Database: https://www.wipo.int/branddb/en/
- Private Legal Portals: VakilSearch, QuickCompany (good for double-checking)
- Google Search: Helps check if someone is using the name informally
📅 When is the Right Time to Search?
Ideally, you should do a trademark search:
- Before launching a product or brand campaign
- Before finalizing your logo and packaging
- Before domain and social media name booking
🚌 Real-World Example: How Tata Secured Its Brands
Tata Motors has several trademarks under Class 12 like:
- Tata Punch
- Tata Safari
- Tata Nexon
Each trademark went through a search and clearance process before registration, protecting it from competitors and counterfeiters.
📄 Documents to Keep Ready for Filing
After completing your trademark search and finalizing your name, prepare the following documents:
- Brand name/logo (wordmark or image)
- Identity proof of applicant
- Business registration proof
- Power of Attorney (if using a legal agent)
- MSME/Udyam certificate (if applicable for fee discount)
✅ Final Checklist Before Filing
If all answers are YES, you’re ready to file under Class 12.
🚨 What Happens if You Skip the Search?
Skipping a search might lead to:
- Application objections or rejection
- Opposition from other brand owners
- Legal notices or lawsuits
- Rebranding costs and reputation damage
A simple search can save you from these future complications.
🚙 Conclusion: Search Smart, Register Right
Trademarking your automotive brand under Class 12 is a strategic move—but only if you start smart. A detailed trademark search is your first and most crucial step in building a legally protected, recognizable, and lasting brand.
Whether you’re launching an e-bike, car accessories, or spare parts—make sure to do your homework before filing.
📈 Need Help with Class 12 Trademark Filing?
At VMK Professionals, we help businesses conduct in-depth trademark searches, prepare all documentation, and file with zero hassle.
✉️ Contact us today to ensure your automotive brand is protected from the start.
VMK Professionals – Powering Brands, Protecting Businesses.
