Introduction
Trademark Class 4 under the NICE Classification system deals with industrial oils, greases, lubricants, fuels, and related lighting materials. This class is of critical importance to businesses engaged in the energy, automotive, manufacturing, transportation, and heavy industry sectors.
If your business manufactures, distributes, or sells any product that helps in combustion, lubrication, or illumination, Class 4 is your default trademark category.
This comprehensive guide from RegistrationMART walks you through everything you need to know — from legal coverage and registration processes to industry examples and FAQs.
Legal Basis in India
India adheres to the NICE Classification system, as mandated under the Trade Marks Act, 1999. Class 4 is one of the 34 goods classes and specifically addresses fuels, lubricants, and industrial lighting products.
- Trigger Section 9 (absolute grounds) or Section 11 (relative grounds) objections,
- Delay your application, and
- Weaken enforceability in infringement disputes.
Class 4 ensures exclusive brand rights over industrial fuels, oils, and lighting substances.
Scope of Trademark Class 4
- Industrial oils and greases
- Automotive and mechanical lubricants
- Fuels (diesel, petrol, kerosene, etc.)
- Dust absorbing, wetting, and binding agents
- Illuminants (lighting oils, waxes)
- Candles and nightlights
- Non-chemical fuel additives
- Gear oil, compressor oil, hydraulic fluids
- Cutting, drilling, and grinding oils
Examples of Goods in Class 4
- Engine oils (diesel and petrol)
- Transmission fluids
- Hydraulic oils for industrial machinery
- Marine engine lubricants
- Grease for automotive and mechanical components
- Turbine oil for aviation
- Paraffin wax and candles
- Fuel for gas stoves and torches
- Petroleum jelly (non-medicated)
- Mineral-based compressor oils
- Cutting and grinding fluids for CNC machines
- Kerosene and industrial lighting oils
- Synthetic gear lubricants
- Dust-binding oils for roadworks
Goods Not Included in Class 4
| Product | Correct Class |
|---|---|
| Hair oils and massage oils | Class 3 |
| Medicated oils and ointments | Class 5 |
| Chemical additives for fuels | Class 1 |
| Cleaning oils for industrial machinery | Class 1 |
| Fuel tanks or cylinders | Class 6 or 20 |
| Oils for cooking or food purposes | Class 29 |
| Scented candles and home fragrances | Class 3 or 5 |
Why Correct Classification Matters
- Cause delays in approval
- Result in rejection or objection
- Leave your brand unprotected during disputes
- Create complications in international expansion
Filing under Class 4 gives your brand the power to fight imitation and piracy in India’s massive fuel and lubrication market.
Real-World Trademark Examples
| Brand Name | Products Covered |
|---|---|
| CASTROL | Automotive and industrial lubricants |
| MOBIL | Synthetic engine oils |
| SHELL | Petrol, diesel, aviation fuels |
| HPCL | Industrial fuels and greases |
| INDIANOIL | Fuels, oils, lubricants |
| GULF | Racing and performance oils |
| TOTAL | Engine oils and fuel additives |
Filing Process for Trademark Class 4 in India
🔹 Step-by-Step Guide:
- Trademark Search: Search for existing marks in Class 4 at IP India Trademark Search.
- File TM-A Form: Include the correct product description under Class 4.
- Examination Stage: Respond to Registry’s queries if any objection under Section 9 or 11 arises.
- Publication in Journal: The mark is published for opposition (4 months window).
- Registration Certificate: If no opposition, registration is granted — valid for 10 years (renewable).
🔹 Required Documents:
- PAN/Aadhaar of applicant or company
- Brand name and logo (if applicable)
- Power of Attorney (TM-48)
- MSME/GST Certificate (if applicable for fee reduction)
International Filing (Madrid Protocol)
India is a signatory to the Madrid Protocol, which allows international trademark registration using the same class system.
| Country | Class Equivalent |
|---|---|
| USA (USPTO) | Class 004 |
| EU (EUIPO) | Class 4 |
| UK | Class 4 |
| WIPO | Class 4 |
Common Filing Mistakes
- Filing fuel additives in Class 4 instead of Class 1.
- Using vague product descriptions (e.g., “fluids” or “solutions”).
- Confusing cosmetic oils with mechanical lubricants.
- Ignoring chemical composition when classifying synthetic oils.
- Submitting scented candles under Class 4 instead of Class 3.
Top Tips for Class 4 Trademark Filing
- Perform a precise trademark search under Class 4.
- Clearly specify whether your product is fuel, oil, grease, or illuminant.
- For multi-purpose products, file under multiple classes (e.g., Class 1 + 4).
- Double-check classification if your product has industrial or chemical elements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I register engine oil under Class 4? Yes. All automotive lubricants are covered.
- What about synthetic transmission fluids? Yes, they’re part of Class 4.
- Are candles part of Class 4? Yes, but only basic lighting candles.
- Can I include petroleum jelly in Class 4? Yes, for industrial use.
- Are biofuels and biodiesel included? Yes, as long as they are used as fuel.
- Can I file fuels and lubricants in the same application? Yes, if both fall under Class 4.
- Are fuel additives covered? Only non-chemical ones. Chemical ones fall in Class 1.
- Can I protect oil drums under Class 4? No. Containers fall under Class 6 or 20.
- Is paraffin wax part of Class 4? Yes, if used for lighting.
- Can I apply for a logo and brand name together? Yes, through a composite mark.
Conclusion
Trademark Class 4 is the go-to category for industries that power, lubricate, or illuminate the world. Whether you’re dealing in diesel, synthetic oils, industrial greases, or waxes, your brand deserves solid legal protection under this class.
With rising competition and government regulations in the energy sector, protecting your brand identity is not optional — it’s essential.
At RegistrationMART, we guide manufacturers, fuel distributors, and energy startups through:
- Trademark classification
- Objection replies
- International filings
- Licensing support
🔐 Get Expert Help Today
📞 Call Us: +91-7201000259
🌐 Visit: www.registrationmart.in
📧 Email: support@registrationmart.in
