[Complete archived version] Trademark classification list & selection guide | Thorough explanation of how even beginners can register by themselves

"I want to get a trademark to protect my brand, but what is 'classification'?"

"I don't know which category to choose..."

The first thing many people stumble upon when trying to register a trademark for the first time is the "classification" barrier. If you make a mistake here, you could end up in the worst case scenario where your rights are not protected even if you pay money to register.

In this article, we will provide an easy-to-understand list of all 45 categories and provide a thorough explanation of tips on how to choose one without making mistakes, so that even beginners without specialized knowledge of trademark registration can choose the category that is most suitable for them and register a trademark smoothly.

1. What is the “classification” of the mark? Why is it important?

When registering a trademark, simply registering a "name" or "logo" is not enough. You need to specify in which field (product/service) the name will be used. This classification of genres is called "classification".

Think of it like an address

Trademark rights arise as a set of "marks (trademarks)" and "products/services (designated goods/designated services)."

• Trademark = nameplate (brand name)

• Category = Address (in which field to use)

For example, the trademark "Apple" is owned by Apple for electronic devices (Class 9), but another company may own it for fields such as meat. If the categories are different, the same name may coexist.

There are 45 categories in total

The classification is broadly divided into two.

• Category 1 to Category 34: Products (things that have a shape)

• Category 35 to Category 45: Services (services/intangible things)

2. [Total 45 types] Trademark classification list (with easy-to-understand explanations)

The JPO's classification table contains many difficult words, so we have broken down and organized the ``specifically what is included'' for beginners.

Category 1 to 34: Goods (things that have a shape)

First of all, there is a classification when making and selling "things".

Classification of "products" often used by beginners

• Apparel brand: Class 25

• Handmade accessories: Class 14

• Sweets and cafe sales: Category 30

• Cosmetics sales: Category 3

Category 35 to 45: Services (Services)

This is a business that provides intangible services.

Classification of "services" often used by beginners

• Restaurant management: Category 43

• Web media/blog: Class 41 (or Class 9/35)

• Consulting/Online shop management: Category 35

3. This is the pitfall! How to choose categories that are easy to make mistakes

The most common mistake beginners make is the misunderstanding between "product classification" and "retail (sales) classification." If you clear this, your registration success rate will go up significantly.

Case study: If you want to sell T-shirts

Pattern A: Make and sell your own brand T-shirts

• Correct answer: Class 25 (Clothing)

• Reason: What you want to sell is "T-shirts" themselves.

Pattern B: Purchase T-shirts from other companies and sell them at select shops

• Correct answer: Class 35 (Retail of clothing)

• Reason: What you are providing is a "retail service" that makes it easy to choose products.

Pattern C: I also make T-shirts and sell other companies' products on my online shop

• Correct answer: both class 25 and class 35

• Reason: You need to protect the rights to both products and services.

4. The cost of trademark registration is determined by the "number of categories"

You may think, "I want to register everything just in case!", but the cost of trademark registration increases in proportion to the number of classifications (number of categories).

Estimated cost (stamp fee paid to the patent office only)

*Estimated as of 2025. If you request a patent attorney, an additional fee will be charged.

1. At the time of application (at the time of application)

   • 1 category: 3,400 yen + (8,600 yen × number of categories)

   • Example: 1 category is 12,000 yen

2. At the time of registration (after passing the examination/10 years)

   • Number of sections × 32,900 yen

   • Example: 32,900 yen for 1 category

In total, it will cost at least 45,000 yen per category.

If you divide it into 2 categories, the cost will almost double. Therefore, the trick to reducing costs is to narrow down your selection to ``current business'' and ``business that will definitely be completed within three years.''

5. 4 steps for beginners to register a trademark by themselves

Once the classification is decided, it's time to apply. Currently, online application is the mainstream, but there is an easy way for individuals to apply.

STEP 1: Search for prior trademarks (most important!)

Check whether the name you want to use is already registered in the "category" you selected.

• Tool: J-PlatPat (Patent Information Platform) *Free

• How to: Select "Trademark Search" and enter your brand name as a keyword to search. Check for similar names.

STEP 2: Create and submit application form

Submit the document to the patent office.

• Method: Use "Internet application software" or submit by mail. These days, it is easiest and recommended for beginners to use a private "online trademark application service" that allows you to easily apply from your smartphone (they handle the troublesome procedures for you for a fee of several thousand yen).

STEP 3: Examination (approximately 4 to 10 months)

The patent office examiner will check it. If there are no problems, you will receive a "registration assessment." If there is a similar trademark, you will receive a "Notice of Reasons for Refusal".

STEP 4: Payment of registration fee

If you pass the review, pay the registration fee. Once the payment is completed, you will receive a "Trademark Registration Certificate" approximately one month later, and you will become the trademark owner!

Summary: Choose categories with an eye to the future

In trademark registration, choosing a category is a "battle for position" in business.

1. Check whether your product is a "good" or "service."

2. Find the corresponding number from the list above.

3. Note the difference from "Retail (Class 35)".

4. Search for the same name in that category with J-PlatPat.

By following these steps, you can take the first step toward registering your trademark on your own without having to hire an expert.

Brand name is the face and asset of your business. It costs a lot of money to replace the sign once someone has taken it.

In order to protect your business, start by checking which category your business falls into.