Question 1

What is included in a South African comprehensive trademark search?

Accepted Answer

A comprehensive clearance search of CIPC registers, selected African national registers, and common law sources to identify potential conflicts for your proposed mark.

Question 2

How long does the search take?

Accepted Answer

Typically 1–2 business days for delivery of your comprehensive report.

Question 3

What's a 'class' in trademarks?

Accepted Answer

Goods and services are grouped into 45 Nice classes. Your filing and search scope is defined per class.

Question 4

How are prices calculated?

Accepted Answer

Pricing is based on database values with transparent ZAR pricing per class. Combined word + logo searches may have different pricing tiers.

Question 5

Do I need to search both word and logo?

Accepted Answer

If you plan to file both word and stylised/logo versions, we recommend the combined option for comprehensive coverage.

Question 6

Does this include filing the application?

Accepted Answer

No. This is a search service. We can handle CIPC filing separately if needed.

Question 7

Will you recommend classes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Provide your product/service description and we'll recommend relevant classes for your review.

Question 8

What if conflicts are found?

Accepted Answer

We'll explain risk level and propose alternatives to improve registrability in South Africa.

Question 9

Is the search guaranteed?

Accepted Answer

No search can guarantee registration, but it significantly reduces risk by finding likely conflicts early.

Question 10

What do you need from me?

Accepted Answer

Your mark format (word, logo, or both), the word(s) if applicable, your logo file if applicable, and a description of goods/services.

Question 11

Do prices include CIPC fees?

Accepted Answer

No. CIPC fees apply only at filing stage and vary per class.

Question 12

What file types are accepted for logos?

Accepted Answer

PNG or SVG preferred. High‑contrast images help with analysis.

Question 13

Can you search international registers?

Accepted Answer

This service focuses on South Africa and selected African countries. Ask us about international options including Madrid Protocol searches.

Question 14

How will I receive results?

Accepted Answer

We provide a written report with conflict analysis and recommendations specific to South African trademark law.

Question 15

Can I add classes later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can order additional classes at the same pricing.

Question 16

How does South African trademark law affect the search?

Accepted Answer

We consider South African common law rights, CIPC examination practices, and local precedents. Our attorneys understand CIPC's approach to conflicts and registrability.

Question 17

What African registers are included?

Accepted Answer

We search key African markets where relevant, including regional databases and selected national registers that may impact South African rights.

Question 18

Do you check for B-BBEE considerations?

Accepted Answer

While B-BBEE doesn't typically affect trademark registrability, we can advise on ownership structures that may impact your trademark strategy in South Africa.

Question 19

What about common law rights in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Our comprehensive search includes common law sources to identify unregistered marks that may have rights through use in South Africa.

Question 20

How do you handle domain name conflicts?

Accepted Answer

We check key domain extensions (.co.za, .za.com) and can advise on domain strategy as part of your overall brand protection.

Comprehensive Trade Mark Search
South African clearance search, comprehensive and affordable

How it works

Select & Checkout

We Search & Analyze

Report & Next Steps

Order your search

Why this search works

Business‑aligned

Risk clarity

Actionable report

Coverage

Follow‑up

Trusted team

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Meet Some Of Your Expert Team

Tamara

Alicia

Johanna

Ayesha

Geraint

Kyle

Drew

Chris

Antonella

FAQs

Comprehensive Trade Mark SearchSouth African clearance search, comprehensive and affordable