Trademark Class 17 in India: Everything Rubber & Plastic Manufacturers Must Know
In the world of trademark registration, classification plays a vital role. If you are a manufacturer or business dealing in rubber, plastics, or related goods, Trademark Class 17 is the category that applies to your brand. This class covers a wide range of non-metallic, semi-processed goods and materials that are crucial to various industries including automotive, construction, packaging, electrical, and more.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Trademark Class 17 in India, including what it covers, why it matters, and how rubber and plastic manufacturers can benefit from protecting their brand under this class.
Understanding Trademark Classes in India
Before diving into the specifics of Class 17, it’s important to understand the basics of trademark classification.
India follows the Nice Classification System, an international classification of goods and services for trademark registration. There are 45 classes in total:
- Classes 1 to 34 cover goods
- Classes 35 to 45 cover services
Each class represents a specific category of goods or services. When filing a trademark, it’s essential to choose the correct class that aligns with the nature of your business. This ensures that your trademark is protected within the appropriate commercial domain.
What Is Trademark Class 17?
Trademark Class 17 is designated for rubber, plastic, and goods made from semi-processed materials not included in other classes. This class is highly relevant for manufacturers and industrial businesses involved in producing or using synthetic resins, insulating materials, flexible plastic pipes, rubber-based adhesives, and similar products.
➤ As per the official classification, Class 17 includes:
“Rubber, gutta-percha, gum, asbestos, mica and goods made from these materials and not included in other classes; plastics in extruded form for use in manufacture; packing, stopping and insulating materials; flexible pipes, not of metal.”
Products Covered Under Trademark Class 17
Here’s a detailed list of the types of products and goods that fall under Class 17:
1. Rubber and Plastic Goods in Semi-Processed Form
- Rubber sheets
- Plastic sheets
- Packing foam
- Rubber sleeves
- Plastic film for industrial and commercial use
2. Insulating Materials
- Electrical insulators
- Thermal insulation for buildings
- Soundproofing materials
- Insulating tapes and bands
- Sealing rings and gaskets
3. Adhesive and Sealing Products
- Rubber-based adhesives (not for stationery use)
- Caulking compounds
- Joint sealants
4. Flexible Pipes and Tubes (Non-Metallic)
- PVC pipes
- Flexible rubber hoses
- Silicone tubing
- Plastic conduit tubing
5. Miscellaneous Industrial Goods
- Anti-vibration pads
- Weather stripping for doors and windows
- O-rings made of rubber
- Rubber stoppers and plugs
Industries That Commonly Use Class 17
Trademark Class 17 is commonly used in various industrial sectors, including:
| Industry | Examples of Class 17 Usage |
| Automotive | Rubber seals, engine gaskets, hoses |
| Construction | Insulation sheets, soundproof materials |
| Packaging | Plastic wrapping films, foam packaging |
| Electronics | Insulation tapes, wire coatings |
| Plumbing | Flexible non-metal pipes, rubber washers |
| Manufacturing | Anti-vibration mounts, rubber rollers |
If your business operates in any of these industries, Class 17 is likely relevant to your products.
Why Trademark Class 17 Matters for Rubber and Plastic Manufacturers
✅ Brand Protection in a Competitive Industry
Rubber and plastic goods are widely used and manufactured, leading to fierce competition. Registering your trademark in Class 17 helps protect your brand identity from imitation or misuse by competitors.
✅ Legal Rights to Exclusive Use
Once your trademark is registered, you get the exclusive right to use it for Class 17 goods. This can help you enforce your brand against unauthorized use.
✅ Business Expansion and Credibility
A registered trademark adds credibility to your products, making it easier to:
- Establish distributorships
- Enter into supply contracts
- Expand globally with international trademark applications
✅ Avoid Legal Conflicts
Filing under the wrong class or failing to register your brand may result in legal disputes or loss of brand ownership. Properly using Class 17 ensures that your protection aligns with your actual product range.
What Is Not Covered Under Class 17?
Certain rubber or plastic products may fall under other trademark classes based on their usage. Here are a few examples of exclusions:
| Item | Relevant Class |
| Rubber footwear | Class 25 |
| Plastic kitchen utensils | Class 21 |
| Rubber toys | Class 28 |
| Medical-grade plastic products | Class 10 |
Tip: Always consult with a trademark expert to ensure you’re applying under the correct class or multiple classes, if required.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Trademark in Class 17
Here is a simplified step-by-step process to register your brand in Class 17 in India:
Step 1: Trademark Search
Conduct a thorough search on the IP India Trademark Database to ensure that your proposed brand name/logo is not already taken or similar to an existing trademark under Class 17.
💡 A professional trademark search reduces the risk of rejection and legal conflicts.
Step 2: Prepare the Trademark Application
File the TM-A form online or offline with the required documents:
- Applicant details
- Trademark representation (logo, wordmark, etc.)
- Description of Class 17 goods
- Power of Attorney (if using a trademark agent)
Step 3: Submit Application and Pay Fees
Government fees vary depending on the type of applicant:
- ₹4,500 for individual/startup/small enterprise
- ₹9,000 for other applicants (companies, partnerships, etc.)
Step 4: Examination by Trademark Office
The Trademark Office examines the application for any objections or errors. If objections arise, a reply or hearing may be required.
Step 5: Advertisement in Trademark Journal
If approved, the trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for public opposition.
Step 6: Registration Certificate
If no opposition is filed within 4 months, the mark is officially registered and you receive the Trademark Registration Certificate.
Duration and Renewal of Class 17 Trademark
A registered trademark in Class 17 is valid for 10 years from the date of application. It can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years by filing a renewal request and paying the prescribed fee.
🛡️ Always renew your trademark before expiry to avoid legal complications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Under Class 17
❌ Choosing the Wrong Class
Don’t assume your product fits into Class 17 without verifying its exact category.
❌ Incomplete Product Description
Be specific about your goods. Avoid vague terms like “rubber items” — instead use “rubber insulation sheets for industrial use.”
❌ Ignoring Trademark Search
Skipping the search phase can lead to rejection or opposition from existing trademark holders.
❌ Using Generic Terms
Avoid using generic or descriptive names like “PlasticWrap” or “RubberSeal” as trademarks. These are hard to protect legally.
Can You Register in Multiple Classes?
Yes. If your business deals in products that span different categories (for example, rubber pipes and rubber toys), you can register in multiple trademark classes. This strategy ensures your brand is protected across all relevant areas of operation.
Real-World Example: Why Class 17 Protection Matters
Let’s say you own a company called FlexiRub Industries that manufactures rubber hoses for industrial use. You brand your products with the logo “FlexiFlow.” If you don’t register this mark in Class 17, another competitor could start using the same or a similar name for their rubber pipes, confusing your customers and affecting your reputation.
By registering FlexiFlow under Class 17, you legally prevent others from using your brand name for similar rubber or plastic products.
Final Thoughts
If you are involved in the manufacturing, processing, or sale of rubber, plastic, or insulating goods, then Trademark Class 17 is your brand’s legal home. Securing your trademark under this class not only protects your brand from misuse but also strengthens your position in the competitive industrial market.
Whether you’re a startup or an established company, trademark registration in the correct class is essential to safeguard your intellectual property and grow your business with confidence.
Let VMK Professionals Help You with Trademark Registration
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in hassle-free trademark registration services across India. Our team of legal and IP experts ensures:
- Accurate class selection
- Comprehensive trademark search
- Fast and compliant filing
- Expert handling of objections and oppositions
Contact us today to register your trademark under Class 17 and protect your rubber or plastic business with confidence.
