A Complete List of International Trademark Classes

Trademarks are essential for protecting your brand’s identity in the marketplace, and the International Trademark Classes (Nice Classification) play a crucial role in the trademark registration process. Established by the Nice Agreement (1957) and maintained by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the system categorizes goods and services into 45 distinct classes. This ensures that trademarks are properly classified for their intended use. Whether you’re registering a trademark for goods or services, understanding the classification system is vital. Below, we provide a comprehensive list of all 45 trademark classes along with their definitions.

What Are International Trademark Classes?

Trademark classes organize goods and services into categories to simplify the registration process. There are:

• • 34 classes for goods (Classes 1–34)

• • 11 classes for services (Classes 35–45)

When filing a trademark, selecting the correct class(es) is critical. Each class provides protection for specific goods or services, so ensuring accuracy can help avoid conflicts or issues in registration.

How Trademark Classes Work

Trademark classes provide a framework for registering intellectual property. Here’s how they work in practice:

Goods vs. Services: The first 34 classes cover physical goods, while Classes 35–45 deal with services. Overlapping Categories: Some goods or services can fall under multiple classes, requiring careful consideration. For example, software may fall under Class 9 (downloadable software) or Class 42 (software as a service). Multi-Class Registration: Businesses often register trademarks in multiple classes to ensure comprehensive protection. For example, a fashion brand might register in Class 25 (clothing), Class 18 (bags), and Class 35 (retail services).

Goods

Class	Category	Definition
1	Chemical	Chemicals used in industry, science, and agriculture (e.g., adhesives, fertilizers).
2	Paints	Paints, varnishes, and preservatives against rust and corrosion.
3	Cosmetics	Cleaning products, cosmetics, perfumes, and soaps.
4	Fuels	Industrial oils, greases, and fuels (e.g., candles, lubricants).
5	Pharmaceuticals	Medicinal products, dietary supplements, and disinfectants.
6	Metals	Common metals and their products (e.g., building materials, hardware).
7	Machinery	Machines, motors, engines, and agricultural implements.
8	Hand Tools	Hand-operated tools and cutlery (e.g., scissors, razors).
9	Electronics	Scientific instruments, software, and electronic devices (e.g., computers).
10	Digital Devices	Surgical, medical, and dental apparatus.
11	Lighting/Heating	Appliances for lighting, heating, and cooling (e.g., air conditioners, lamps).
12	Vehicles	Vehicles, their parts, and accessories.
13	Firearms	Firearms, ammunition, and explosives.
14	Jewelry	Precious metals, jewelry, and watches.
15	Musical Instruments	Musical instruments and accessories.
16	Paper Products	Stationery, books, and printed materials.
17	Rubber/Plastics	Rubber, plastics, and insulation materials.
18	Leather Goods	Leather goods such as bags, wallets, and umbrellas.
19	Building Materials	Non-metallic building materials (e.g., wood, glass).
20	Furniture	Furniture and items made of wood, plastic, or metal.
21	Household Items	Kitchen utensils, cookware, and glassware.
22	Ropes and Nets	Ropes, tents, and raw fibrous textiles.
23	Yarns and Threads	Threads and yarns for textile use.
24	Fabrics	Fabrics, linens, and curtains.
25	Clothing	Apparel, footwear, and headgear.
26	Sewing Supplies	Ribbons, buttons, zippers, and other haberdashery items.
27	Floor Coverings	Carpets, rugs, mats, and linoleum.
28	Toys/Sports Goods	Toys, games, and sporting equipment.
29	Food (Animal Origins)	Meat, fish, dairy products, and edible oils.
30	Food (Plant Origin)	Coffee, tea, bread, and spices.
31	Agricultural Goods	Live animals, fresh fruits, and seeds.
32	Non-Alcoholic Beverages	Sodas, mineral water, and juices.
33	Alcoholic Beverages	Alcoholic drinks (except beer).
34	Tobacco Products	Tobacco, cigars, cigarettes, and lighters.

Services

Class	Category	Definition
35	Business Services	Advertising, business management, and consulting.
36	Financial Services	Banking, insurance, and real estate.
37	Construction	Building, maintenance, and repair services.
38	Telecommunications	Communication and broadcasting services.
39	Transportation	Logistics, shipping, and storage services.
40	Manufacturing	Custom manufacturing and material processing.
41	Education	Training, education, and entertainment services.
42	Scientific Services	IT, research, and development services.
43	Hospitality	Food and drink services, hotels, and accommodations.
44	Medical Services	Healthcare, veterinary, and agricultural services.
45	Legal/Personal Services	Legal services, security, and social work.

Protect your brand today with Filepino—your trusted partner in trademark registration. Contact us now to get started!

How to Choose the Right Trademark Class for Your Business

Selecting the correct trademark class is crucial to securing proper protection for your brand. Misclassification can lead to denied applications or inadequate safeguards. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you navigate this process effectively.

1. Understand Your Products and Services

Start by identifying what your business offers—whether it’s products, services, or both. Consider current offerings and future expansions.

• • Example 1: A clothing brand falls under Class 25 for apparel and may need Class 35 for retail services if it operates stores.

• • Example 2: A skincare company in Class 3 (cosmetics) may expand into supplements requiring Class 5 (pharmaceuticals).

Plan strategically to protect both present and future opportunities.

2. Research Similar Trademarks

Conduct a thorough search of existing trademarks to avoid conflicts:

• • Check Trademark Databases: Look for registered and pending trademarks in your category.

• • Focus on Classes: Ensure no overlap with similar names in your target classes.

Example: If “Green Leaf” sells organic teas, you’d search Class 30 (tea) and Class 32 (non-alcoholic beverages). A name can be registered across different classes, like “Lotus” for cars in Class 12 and yoga apparel in Class 25.

3. Consider Multi-Class Registrations

If your business spans multiple categories, register across relevant classes to protect all aspects of your brand. Examples:

• • Amazon: Software (Class 9), online retail (Class 35), and streaming services (Class 41).

• • Nike: Apparel (Class 25), sports equipment (Class 28), and retail stores (Class 35).

Multi-class registration offers comprehensive protection and accommodates future growth.

4. Avoid Common Mistakes

Common Errors to Watch For:

• • Too Narrow: Failing to register in related classes (e.g., beverages missing Class 30 and Class 32).

• • Too Broad: Registering irrelevant classes (e.g., registering in Class 12 for vehicles when selling clothing).

• • Ignoring Future Needs: Neglecting potential expansions into new markets or products.

Solution: Strike a balance by focusing on all relevant, realistic categories.

5. When to Seek Professional Help

Trademark registration can be complex, especially for multi-class or international filings. Seek expert advice if:

• • Your products/services overlap multiple classes.

• • You operate in emerging industries with ambiguous classifications.

• • You plan to expand internationally, where class interpretations may vary.

Benefits of Professional Help:

• • Accurate classification.

• • Avoidance of application errors.

• • Long-term protection for your intellectual property.

Choosing the right trademark class is essential to securing comprehensive protection for your brand. By understanding your products and services, researching similar trademarks, and considering multi-class registrations, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your intellectual property is safeguarded. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, getting your trademark registration right from the start sets the foundation for long-term success. If you’re unsure about which classes to register for or need professional assistance navigating the complexities of trademark law, Filepino is here to help. Our team offers expert guidance and comprehensive trademark registration services tailored to your business’s unique needs.

… and you might just need our assistance.

We, at FilePino, a one-stop-shop business consulting firm trusted by thousands of clients for their business formation and post-formation needs, offer a comprehensive trademark registration service in the Philippines.  With our sister company, Duran & Duran-Schulze Law, we guarantee that there will be an in-house team of lawyers and trademark specialists, who can provide you with accurate information and complete guidance throughout the trademark registration process.  Ready to register your trademark? Set up a consultation with FilePino today! Call us at (02) 8478-5826 (landline) and 0917 892 2337 (mobile) or send an email to info@filepino.com.