How to Trademark a Shopify Store Brand: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

Do you need a trademark for your Shopify store?

Yes, if you want legal ownership of your brand name, a federal trademark is the only tool that provides it. Buying a Shopify domain, forming an LLC, or registering a business name does not create trademark rights — those are separate systems. Trademark registration with the USPTO is a form of intellectual property that gives you nationwide brand protection: the exclusive right to use your name on your goods across the entire United States. For a Shopify seller, that is what lets you demand a marketplace or hosting platform remove a copycat store using your name. Secure Mark USA files that USPTO trademark registration so your Shopify brand is protected beyond your own website.

Which USPTO class covers a Shopify store brand?

You file in the class that matches the products you sell, and optionally Class 35 if you run a broader retail operation. The USPTO organizes trademarks into 45 classes based on goods and services. If your Shopify store sells your own branded products, file in that goods class: Class 25 for clothing, Class 3 for skincare and cosmetics, Class 5 for supplements, Class 30 for coffee and food, Class 20 for furniture, or Class 9 for electronics and downloadable software. If your store is a retail platform curating and reselling many brands, Class 35 covers "online retail store services." Sellers who both make products and run a retail storefront often file in both, and each class adds its own $350 USPTO fee.

How do you trademark a Shopify store name step by step?

The process is three steps: search, choose your class, and file with the USPTO. First, run a clearance search to confirm your name is available — because U.S. trademark rights are largely first-to-file, the earliest applicant generally wins, so do this before you invest in branding. Second, identify the class that matches your goods and write an accurate description of what you sell. Third, submit the application to the USPTO; Secure Mark USA prepares and files it for you from $99 plus the $350-per-class USPTO fee. If you have not launched yet, file an intent-to-use application to lock in your priority date while you build the store. After filing you receive a serial number and can display the TM symbol immediately.

Key takeaways

• A Shopify domain and LLC do not give you trademark rights — only a USPTO trademark does.
• File in the class matching your goods: Class 25 apparel, Class 3 cosmetics, Class 5 supplements.
• Add Class 35 if you run a retail store reselling multiple brands.
• You can file before launch with an intent-to-use application to secure priority.
• Secure Mark USA files your trademark from $99 plus the $350-per-class USPTO fee.

Frequently asked questions