Choosing the right trademark class is a crucial step in protecting your brand and ensuring your business operates smoothly without legal complications. When dealing with metal goods, machinery, and tools, businesses often find themselves confused between Trademark Class 6, Class 7, and Class 8. Each of these classes covers different types of products, and selecting the wrong one could lead to application rejection or legal disputes in the future.
In this guide, we will help you understand the differences between these three trademark classes, the types of products they cover, and how to determine which one is right for your business.
Understanding Trademark Classes
The Nice Classification (NCL) system categorizes trademarks into 45 different classes, with Classes 1-34 covering goods and Classes 35-45 covering services. When filing a trademark, businesses must specify the class their products or services fall under. This classification ensures that similar trademarks do not overlap in unrelated industries.
For businesses dealing with metals, tools, and machinery, the relevant trademark classes are:
- Class 6 – Common metals and their alloys
- Class 7 – Machines and machine tools
- Class 8 – Hand tools and cutlery
Now, let’s explore each class in detail to understand their differences and applications.
Trademark Class 6: Common Metals and Their Alloys
What It Covers: Class 6 primarily includes metals in their raw or semi-finished form. It is best suited for businesses dealing with metal-based goods that are used in construction, manufacturing, or infrastructure development.
Examples of Class 6 Products:
- Unwrought and partly wrought common metals
- Metal building materials (pipes, beams, rods, etc.)
- Metal doors, windows, and shutters
- Metal hardware such as screws, bolts, and hinges
- Metal storage tanks and containers
- Railway tracks and metal cables
Who Should Choose Class 6? Businesses manufacturing or trading in raw metals, metal frameworks, or industrial metal hardware should opt for Class 6 trademark registration. If your products are primarily metal-based but not tools or machinery, this is the right classification.
Trademark Class 7: Machines and Machine Tools
What It Covers: Class 7 includes machinery, machine tools, and parts used in various industries. This class is suitable for manufacturers of automated tools, industrial machinery, and machine components.
Examples of Class 7 Products:
- Agricultural machines (tractors, harvesters, etc.)
- Construction machinery (excavators, cranes, etc.)
- Industrial robots and automated tools
- Electric motors and generators
- Food processing machines (grinders, mixers, etc.)
- 3D printers
Who Should Choose Class 7? If your business deals with mechanical equipment, industrial automation, or any form of machinery used for production and manufacturing, Class 7 is the right choice.
Trademark Class 8: Hand Tools and Cutlery
What It Covers: Class 8 is designated for non-electric hand tools and manually operated devices. It includes equipment used in construction, crafting, and kitchen settings.
Examples of Class 8 Products:
- Hammers, wrenches, and screwdrivers
- Scissors, knives, and razors
- Gardening tools (shovels, shears, rakes)
- Manually operated drills and saws
- Cutlery (forks, spoons, knives)
Who Should Choose Class 8? If your business sells tools that require manual operation, such as hand tools for construction, gardening, or cutlery for kitchen use, Class 8 is the correct trademark classification.
Key Differences Between Class 6, 7, and 8
| Feature | Class 6 | Class 7 | Class 8 |
| Primary Focus | Metals & Alloys | Machines & Industrial Tools | Hand Tools & Cutlery |
| Examples | Metal doors, hinges, rods | Robots, industrial machines, engines | Scissors, hammers, wrenches |
| Usage | Construction, infrastructure | Manufacturing, industrial processes | Household, construction, gardening |
How to Choose the Right Trademark Class?
Selecting the correct class depends on the nature of your business and the type of products you manufacture or sell. Here are some factors to consider:
- Product Type – Determine if your product is a raw material (Class 6), a machine or industrial tool (Class 7), or a manually operated tool (Class 8).
- Industry Usage – If your product is used in heavy industries and manufacturing, it likely falls under Class 7. If it’s used in construction or infrastructure but not a tool, Class 6 is better.
- Trademark Protection Scope – If you manufacture both machine tools and hand tools, you may need to register under both Class 7 and Class 8 to ensure full brand protection.
- Legal & Business Considerations – Registering under the wrong class can lead to application rejection or trademark infringement cases. Consulting with a trademark expert can help ensure correct classification.
Conclusion: The Importance of Choosing the Right Class
Selecting the right trademark class is crucial to safeguarding your brand and preventing disputes in the future. If you deal in common metals and hardware, Class 6 is the right choice. If you manufacture machines and industrial tools, go for Class 7. However, if your products include hand tools or cutlery, then Class 8 is the appropriate class for your trademark registration.
To avoid costly legal mistakes and ensure your trademark is properly registered, always seek professional guidance before filing your application.
Register Your Trademark with VMK Professionals
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in trademark registration, ensuring that businesses like yours get the best protection under the right trademark class. Our expert team will guide you through every step of the registration process, from class selection to filing and approval.
Why Choose VMK Professionals?
- Expert Consultation – Get advice on the best trademark class for your business.
- Hassle-Free Filing – We handle all documentation and filing procedures.
- Comprehensive Support – From search to approval, we assist you at every stage.
Protect your brand today! Contact VMK Professionals for reliable and hassle-free trademark registration services.