Customs recordal for trademarks in India
Record your IP with Indian Customs so officers can detain suspected infringing goods at the port.
Quick answer
Under the IPR (Imported Goods) Enforcement Rules, 2007, a rights holder can record a registered trademark, copyright, design or GI with Customs on the online portal. Customs can then suspend clearance of suspected infringing imports. Recordal needs a bond and indemnity, and it covers imports, not goods in transit.
What you can record
- Registered trademarks, copyrights, designs and geographical indications. Patents are not covered by these rules.
- The rights must be registered in India, and you should be the owner or an authorised licensee.
Last checked: 12 November 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change, so confirm on the official site before you file.
How recordal works
- Register on the Customs IPR recordation portal and submit a notice with details of your rights and your genuine products.
- Furnish a bond and an indemnity bond as the Rules require, to cover costs and any claims from wrongly detained goods.
- Customs reviews and accepts the notice. A fee has been reported in commentary; confirm the current amount on the portal.
- Recordal is valid for a fixed period, commonly stated as five years or until the right expires, whichever is earlier. Renew in time.
If a shipment is detained
Customs informs you and the importer. You usually must confirm infringement and act within the time limits in the Rules, often by filing a case in court or with Customs, and bear the costs. Keep evidence of your genuine product features ready for officers. A cease and desist notice may follow against the importer.
Before you record
Make sure the right is registered: trademark, copyright or design. See other protection routes on IP types compared.
Frequently asked questions
Does customs recordal cover goods in transit?
No. The Rules cover imports and exclude goods in transit.
Can I record an unregistered trademark?
No. The right must be registered.
Do I need a bond?
Yes. A general bond and an indemnity bond are required under the Rules.
Does it stop exports of fakes?
The 2007 Rules deal with imported goods only.
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Written by: Trademark Wale editorial team, with over 40 years of experience in trademark and IP work, serving 7000+ brands. Last updated: 12 November 2026.
Sources: ICEGATE IPR recordation portal, Intellectual Property Rights (Imported Goods) Enforcement Rules, 2007 (Notification 47/2007-Customs (NT)).
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