USPTO Trademark Classes: Selecting the Right Classification for a Trademark Application

When filing a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), one of the most crucial decisions is selecting the correct trademark class. Each trademark must be assigned to one or more of the USPTO’s 45 classes, which cover specific types of goods and services. Choosing the appropriate class from the start is essential, as changing it after submission is not permitted. This guide provides a detailed overview of each USPTO trademark class, with tips on selecting the right one for your business.

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction: Why Selecting the Correct USPTO Trademark Class Matters
2. USPTO Trademark Classes Overview
3. The 34 Classes for Goods
4. The 11 Classes for Services
5. Importance of Proper Classification in Trademark Strategy
6. Conclusion: Consult with a Trademark Attorney to Get It Right
7. Call to Action: Contact the L.A. Tech and Media Law Firm for Expert Trademark Advice

1. Introduction: Why Selecting the Correct USPTO Trademark Class Matters

Selecting the right USPTO trademark class is vital because it determines the protection scope of your trademark. A trademark registered in an incorrect class might not effectively protect your brand and could be vulnerable to trademark infringement. Moreover, trademark classifications cannot be changed after filing, so it’s crucial to get it right from the start.

2. USPTO Trademark Classes Overview

The USPTO has designated 45 different classes: 34 for goods and 11 for services. Each class represents a specific category of products or services. Below, we provide a brief description of each class, highlighting the types of goods and services they cover.

3. The 34 USPTO Trademark Classes for Goods

1. Class 1 – Chemicals: Includes industrial chemicals, as well as adhesives and unprocessed artificial resins used in manufacturing.
2. Class 2 – Paints: Encompasses paints, varnishes, and coatings, as well as dyes and anti-corrosive preparations.
3. Class 3 – Cosmetics and Cleaning Preparations: Includes cosmetics, skincare products, perfumes, and cleaning substances.
4. Class 4 – Lubricants and Fuels: Covers industrial oils, greases, lubricants, and fuel materials.
5. Class 5 – Pharmaceuticals: Pharmaceuticals, medical products, dietary supplements, and veterinary goods.
6. Class 6 – Metal Goods: Metals and metal products, including hardware, metal building materials, and safes.
7. Class 7 – Machinery: Machinery and equipment, including engines, machine parts, and industrial robots.
8. Class 8 – Hand Tools: Manual tools such as hammers, wrenches, and hand-operated devices.
9. Class 9 – Electrical and Scientific Devices: Electronics, scientific instruments, and software, as well as computers and accessories.
10. Class 10 – Medical Apparatus: Medical devices and instruments, including surgical tools and diagnostic equipment.
11. Class 11 – Environmental Control Apparatus: Products related to lighting, heating, and refrigeration, including HVAC systems.
12. Class 12 – Vehicles: Vehicles and parts, including cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and boats.
13. Class 13 – Firearms: Weapons and ammunition, including firearms and explosives.
14. Class 14 – Jewelry: Jewelry, watches, and precious metals or stones.
15. Class 15 – Musical Instruments: Instruments, tuning forks, and other musical accessories.
16. Class 16 – Paper Goods and Printed Matter: Stationery, books, magazines, and printed publications.
17. Class 17 – Rubber Goods: Rubber, plastic materials, and insulation products.
18. Class 18 – Leather Goods: Leather products, bags, wallets, and saddlery.
19. Class 19 – Non-metallic Building Materials: Building materials that are not made of metal, such as bricks, glass, and wood.
20. Class 20 – Furniture and Articles Not Otherwise Classified: Furniture, mirrors, and other non-metal household goods.
21. Class 21 – Housewares and Glass: Household utensils, containers, and glassware.
22. Class 22 – Cordage and Fibers: Rope, string, nets, and other fibrous materials.
23. Class 23 – Yarns and Threads: Threads and yarns used for textile production.
24. Class 24 – Fabrics: Fabrics, textiles, bed linens, and other soft furnishings.
25. Class 25 – Clothing: Apparel, including footwear and headgear.
26. Class 26 – Fancy Goods: Sewing supplies, ribbons, buttons, and artificial flowers.
27. Class 27 – Floor Coverings: Carpets, rugs, mats, and linoleum.
28. Class 28 – Toys and Sporting Goods: Toys, games, sporting equipment, and fitness products.
29. Class 29 – Meats and Processed Foods: Foods like meat, fish, dairy, and other preserved food products.
30. Class 30 – Staple Foods: Foods like coffee, tea, bread, and baked goods.
31. Class 31 – Natural Agricultural Products: Raw agricultural products, fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants.
32. Class 32 – Light Beverages: Beverages such as soft drinks, juices, and non-alcoholic drinks.
33. Class 33 – Wines and Spirits: Alcoholic beverages, excluding beer.
34. Class 34 – Smokers’ Articles: Tobacco products, smokers’ supplies, and matches.

4. The 11 USPTO Trademark Classes for Services

1. Class 35 – Advertising and Business Services: Marketing, business management, and advertising services.
2. Class 36 – Insurance and Financial Services: Financial services, real estate, and insurance.
3. Class 37 – Construction and Repair: Building construction, repair, and maintenance.
4. Class 38 – Telecommunications: Services related to telecommunication, such as broadcasting and data transmission.
5. Class 39 – Transportation and Storage: Transportation services, logistics, and storage.
6. Class 40 – Treatment of Materials: Manufacturing services and treatment of materials.
7. Class 41 – Education and Entertainment: Educational, training, and entertainment services.
8. Class 42 – Computer and Scientific Services: Scientific research, IT services, software development, and consulting.
9. Class 43 – Hotels and Restaurants: Hospitality, including hotels, restaurants, and catering services.
10. Class 44 – Medical and Beauty Services: Medical, dental, and beauty care services.
11. Class 45 – Personal and Legal Services: Legal services, security, and personal or social services.

5. Importance of Proper Classification in Trademark Strategy

Choosing the correct trademark class has long-term implications for brand protection. Once filed, classes cannot be changed, meaning that a mistake could limit or invalidate your trademark protection. Proper classification ensures that your trademark safeguards your products and services effectively.

6. Conclusion: Consult with a Trademark Attorney to Get It Right

Selecting the correct USPTO trademark class is critical to securing effective and lasting trademark protection. Working with a knowledgeable trademark attorney ensures that your application is filed correctly, avoiding costly mistakes.

Call to Action: Contact L.A. Tech and Media Law Firm

If you’re considering filing for a trademark, contact the L.A. Tech and Media Law Firm to consult with an experienced trademark attorney who can guide you through the classification process. Secure your trademark rights with confidence—schedule a consultation today.