In the competitive world of fuels, oils, and energy products, protecting your brand isn’t optional—it’s essential. If your business manufactures, sells, or distributes fuels, lubricants, or energy products, understanding International Trademark Class 4 is the first step to building a strong, enforceable brand.
Let’s walk through what Class 4 covers, explore real-world examples, and offer practical tips for businesses looking to safeguard their energy brands.
What Is International Trademark Class 4?
International Trademark Class 4 is part of the Nice Classification system, a global standard for categorizing goods and services for trademark purposes maintained by WIPO.
Class 4 covers:
- Industrial oils and greases
- Lubricants
- Fuels (including gasoline and diesel)
- Motor oils
- Dust absorbing, wetting, and binding compositions
- Illuminants (e.g., candles, lamp oils)
Class 4 broadly encompasses products related to energy generation, maintenance, and consumption. However, if your goods are primarily chemical additives or treatments, you may need to also consider Class 1 for proper coverage.
For a full overview of trademark classifications, visit our International Trademark Classes Guide.
Why Proper Classification Matters for Fuel, Oil, and Energy Brands
Choosing the wrong class—or describing your goods too vaguely—can result in costly Office Actions, delays, and ultimately weaker trademark protection.
Consider Chevron’s enforcement strategy. When Chevron defended its branding against companies like Fox Racing, it relied on a strong network of Class 4 registrations covering fuels, oils, and lubricants. Similarly, ExxonMobil regularly defends its Exxon and Mobil brands against confusingly similar uses in the fuels and lubricants market.
Clear classification and precise goods descriptions are the foundation of strong brand enforcement in this sector.
At Harrigan IP, we help energy companies and fuel marketers secure and protect their trademarks. Learn more about our trademark registration services.
Real-World Examples: Class 4 in Action
Major energy brands rely heavily on Class 4 filings:
- Chevron: Protects trademarks covering fuels, motor oils, and industrial lubricants.
- ExxonMobil: Owns extensive Class 4 registrations for various fuels and lubricants under brands like Exxon, Mobil, and Esso.
- Shell: Secures its brand portfolio across gasoline, motor oils, and grease products globally.
Disputes like Chevron v. Fox Racing and Exxon v. XOil demonstrate how important it is to protect your brand thoroughly under Class 4 if you operate in the energy or fuels industry.
How to Draft Goods Descriptions Correctly
The USPTO often issues Office Actions when applicants are too vague. For example, simply listing “oils” or “fuels” without clarification typically isn’t sufficient.
Instead, use specific descriptions like:
- “Motor oils for automobiles”
- “Industrial lubricants for machinery”
- “Fuels for heating and industrial purposes”
You can find approved examples of acceptable goods descriptions in the USPTO Trademark ID Manual.
When Filing in Multiple Classes Is Necessary
Sometimes, your products or services may cross into other classes:
- Fuel additives (Class 1 for chemicals + Class 4 for fuels)
- Energy marketing or retail sales services (Class 35)
Filing in multiple classes ensures that your brand is protected across its entire commercial footprint. Learn more about trademark clearance and multi-class filings.
Conclusion: Protect Your Fuel, Oil, and Energy Brand with Confidence
International Trademark Class 4 plays a vital role for companies in the fuel, lubricant, and broader energy sectors. Strategic filing decisions, clear goods descriptions, and careful multi-class planning can make the difference between a protected brand and costly disputes.
Key takeaways:
- Class 4 covers fuels, lubricants, industrial oils, and related energy products.
- Goods descriptions must be specific and clear to avoid Office Actions.
- Filing in additional classes may be necessary if your products or services overlap categories.
Ready to protect your energy brand? Contact Harrigan IP today to discuss your trademark strategy, or start your trademark application online.
Want to learn more? Explore our articles on what a trademark is, why trademark clearance matters, and our flat-fee trademark services.
