Differences between Trademark Registration and Trade Name Registration

Companies may encounter some confusion between trademark registration and commercial name registration while conducting their commercial activities. Trademark registration helps distinguish a company's goods and services, while commercial name registration is essential for distinguishing it from other companies and businesses.

Trademark registration aims to distinguish the products and services of companies, while commercial name registration primarily pertains to the identification of the business itself. The fundamental difference between trademark registration and commercial name registration lies in this aspect.

Differences Between Trademark Registration and Commercial Name Registration

Sometimes, companies mistakenly believe that when they register a commercial name, their brand is also protected and can no longer be used by others. However, trademark registration and commercial name registration are distinct concepts with different purposes in terms of protection.

The differences between trademark registration and commercial name registration can be summarized as follows:

• Company names are obtained through chambers of commerce, while trademark registrations are obtained from the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office.
• While similar-sounding company names with minor differences may be allowed, similar trademarks with small variations are not accepted in trademark registration.
• Official organizations like TSE and KOSGEB often require trademark registration instead of just a company name.
• Checking the availability of a company name is done at the chamber of commerce, while obtaining a trademark registration may take around 6-7 months.
• Company names can be registered through financial advisors, while trademark registrations should be done through trademark attorneys or patent offices.
• Company names and trademarks can have different names. A company can have a single trade name while having multiple trademark registrations.
• Company names and trademarks can have different names. A company can have a single trade name while having multiple trademark registrations.
• Unused names can be used as company names, but there are various conditions for trademark registration. The trademark may be rejected for reasons such as prior registration by someone else, containing generic terms, indicating superiority, or including national or religious terms.
• Company names remain intact as long as the company does not go bankrupt, whereas trademark registrations are valid for 10 years and must be renewed. If not renewed, trademark registrations expire. Renewed registrations, however, can protect your brand indefinitely.

Trademark registration offers many advantages over commercial name registration. You may want to take advantage of these benefits for your brand. Having a registered trademark will effectively protect your company's goods and services. To ensure that your trademark registration application is approved quickly and efficiently, it's advisable to work with a patent firm. At Alkan Patent, we professionally manage your trademark registration process and ensure you receive your certificate as soon as possible. For more detailed information, please feel free to contact us and benefit from our innovative solutions.