Trademark checks: a USPTO-style workflow before you bid
April 30, 2026 · Sub Editor at Den
Trademark conflict kills exits. Before you bid $500 on a catchy brandable, run a structured search, not a Google once-over.
Workflow
- Search USPTO TESS for exact match and obvious variants
- Check active web use in your target industry (not just marks)
- Note international brands if selling globally
- Document date of search in your spreadsheet
This is not legal advice; it is risk reduction. When conflict looks real, pass even if comps look amazing. HoneyPot.com works partly because metaphorical use coexists with technical meaning; your hand-reg of MicrosoftShop.com does not.