Trademark Classes - Sub Terms

[mfrench]

I've looked at applying for a trademark, I understand classes and know which ones I would require, but when you add a class to your application it asks you to tick sub-terms - there are alot of them.

Should I tick all sub-terms for the each class or should I go through the massive list and see which ones apply to my brand?

 

[macScot]

I do not recollect seeing sub-terms. We applied for trademarks on the name and logo and had to select classes. We decided to go with what applies currently as well as what may apply to us based on our company's future goals, this way if we move in that direction we are still classed correctly.

I think they use the classes to make comparisons for similar trademarks because for both applications (name and mark) we were advised that our application was similar to others and could cause problems. Having examined these comparisons we replied back to say we did not think that was the case and gave our own explanations as to why. We were advised nonetheless that they would have to advise the other parties if we do not make changes and that most likely happened however nothing came back from it and eventually we got our certificates in due course.

Based on the above, I think if you select all options, you will have a greater chance of being compared with more marks than necessary, so in my opinion, stick to what applies now or may apply based on your company's vision or goals. However also make sure your marks are different from others, otherwise, you may need to get legal advice.

 

[macScot]

I do not recollect seeing sub-terms. We applied for trademarks on the name and logo and had to select classes. We decided to go with what applies currently as well as what may apply to us based on our company's future goals, this way if we move in that direction we are still classed correctly.

I think they use the classes to make comparisons for similar trademarks because for both applications (name and mark) we were advised that our application was similar to others and could cause problems. Having examined these comparisons we replied back to say we did not think that was the case and gave our own explanations as to why. We were advised nonetheless that they would have to advise the other parties if we do not make changes and that most likely happened however nothing came back from it and eventually we got our certificates in due course.

Based on the above, I think if you select all options, you will have a greater chance of being compared with more marks than necessary, so in my opinion, stick to what applies now or may apply based on your company's vision or goals. However also make sure your marks are different from others, otherwise, you may need to get legal advice.

Actually, I think I know what you mean, the classes are numbers, then you have various options per class. Yes, we chose the ones that applied (to us now or in the future) rather than all. Many don't make sense and a lot are similar to each other so not sure where they come from.