OCT 3, 2025

How to Check If Your Logo Is Unique (Without Paying a Lawyer)

Collage of various brand logos viewed under magnifying glass
Image © respective brand owners. Collage design © byDelign. Used for illustrative purposes only.
So you’ve got a new logo. Looks good, feels right. But here’s the question: is it actually yours?

Many startups skip this step. They use the logo everywhere — website, packaging, LinkedIn. Months later, a letter arrives: “Your logo infringes our trademark.” Suddenly, you’re rebranding from scratch. Expensive mistake.

Here’s how to avoid it without spending big money.

How big brands handle it: the Nike example

Nike Swoosh 1971's logo trademark example
Image © Nike. Used for illustrative purposes only.
When Nike introduced the Swoosh in 1971, they didn’t just start printing it on shoes. They made sure it was legally theirs, but how?
1. Registered the logo early
Nike filed the Swoosh as a trademark in the U.S. in the 70s, securing ownership.

2. Protected the word too
They also registered the word “NIKE” and later “Just Do It.”

3. Expanded worldwide
Each time they entered a new market, they registered the Swoosh there too.

4. Watched competitors
If someone used a similar tick-shaped logo, Nike challenged it.

5. Fought fakes
They worked with customs and courts to stop counterfeit products carrying the Swoosh.
💡You don’t need Nike’s budget, but you can copy the same mindset — check first, register what matters, and monitor later.

Quick (and free) ways to check your logo

You don’t need Nike’s lawyers. You can run basic checks yourself:
Checking logo originality with Google Image Search
  • Google Image Search
Drop your logo into Google Images. If something identical pops up, rethink your design.
WIPO Global Brand Database search interface
  • WIPO Global Brand Database
Use branddb.wipo.int. It scans trademark databases worldwide. Perfect first step.
EUIPO eSearch trademark database interface
  • EUIPO eSearch (Europe)
euipo.europa.eu — check if your logo or name already exists in the EU.
  • Local offices
Most countries have their own free trademark databases.
At byDelign, we do this for clients all the time. Not just “is your logo taken,” but also: does it work in your industry, is it strong compared to competitors, and where are the risks?

We put it all into one clear PDF report — design critique + trademark check + practical advice. Easy to read, no legal jargon.

(yeah, a little self-promo — but hey, we need to pay for Wi-Fi to write these articles for you).

Final thoughts

A logo isn’t just about looking original. It’s also about being original — legally and strategically.
Do a free search today. And if you’re serious, get it checked properly. It’s cheaper than a lawsuit.

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