How to Look Up Trademarks
To look up trademarks, use the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) on the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website for free. You can also visit the USPTO’s Public Search Facility or a Patent and Trademark Resource Center. These resources enable you to search for registered or applied-for trademarks by keyword.
Understanding Trademark Registration
If you do not register your trademark, you will have legal rights only within the geographic areas where you operate. A trademark registration confers an exclusive right to use the registered trademark. This implies the trademark can be used by its owner, or licensed for payment.
Importance of Trademark Search
Typing your brand name into search engines informs you whether there are websites with your proposed trademark. Companies House lets you look through a database of registered marks.
A trademark search allows you to check for identical or similar trademarks before registration. This can identify potential legal conflicts. A trademark creates loyalty among customers as they will likely purchase from a business they recognize.
Checking Brand Name Availability
Conducting a name availability search in trademark databases is crucial to avoid conflicts. Identify relevant national and international databases, search for exact matches to your chosen brand name to identify identical or similar trademarks. Also, review competitors’ trademarks for potential conflicts and assess risks of using your brand name.
Verifying Logo Availability
To check if a logo is taken, use the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS). Conduct a name availability search in trademark databases, search for exact matches to your chosen brand name, and understand that searching trademarks does not guarantee approval.