Class 4 under the Nice Classification for Trademarks covers industrial oils and greases, lubricants, fuels, illuminants, and energy-producing substances, excluding those with chemical or industrial processing functions classified elsewhere. Businesses engaged in lubricants manufacturing, fuel supply, energy products, candles, industrial greases, and combustion-based materials typically fall within Trademark Class 4.

Scope

Class 4 includes substances primarily intended for lubrication, combustion, illumination, or energy generation, whether for industrial, commercial, or domestic use.
Goods covered under this class generally include:

• Industrial oils and greases
• Lubricants for machinery, vehicles, and engines
• Fuels, including solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels
• Motor fuels and additives (non-chemical)
• Illuminants and lighting fuels
• Candles and wicks for lighting
• Dust-absorbing, wetting, and binding compositions
• Energy-producing materials used for combustion

Classification principle: If the primary function of the product is lubrication, fuel, combustion, or illumination, rather than chemical reaction or industrial processing, it generally falls within Class 4.

Key Updates – Nice Classification (2026 Update)

As per the Nice Classification updates 2026, the following clarifications are particularly relevant to Class 4:
Clearer demarcation between:

• Lubricants, fuels, and illuminants (Class 4), and
• Chemical compositions with industrial or reactive functions (Class 1)
  Reaffirmed exclusion of chemical fuel additives and industrial processing agents from Class 4
  Refined terminology to reduce overlap with:
• Industrial chemicals and raw materials (Class 1)
• Energy-generating machines and engines (Class 7)
  Biofuels, renewable fuels and electric vehicle lubricants are now clearly included in Class 4, whereas earlier there was confusion with Class 1 (chemicals). This change aligns with the global transition toward sustainable energy. Energy and EV companies must ensure correct classification in Class 4 for fuel-related products.

Practical takeaway: Hybrid products combining chemical treatment properties and lubrication or fuel functions must be carefully described to avoid misclassification.

Goods NOT Included in Class 4 (But Commonly Confused)

The following goods are excluded from Class 4, despite frequent misclassification:

• Chemical fuel additives and combustion catalysts (Class 1)
• Industrial chemicals and raw chemical substances (Class 1)
• Lubricating machines, pumps, and mechanical systems (Class 7)
• Electric energy and batteries (Class 9)
• Gas supply and energy distribution services (Class 39)
• Chemical cleaning or degreasing agents (Class 1)
• Renewable energy equipment and generators (Class 7)

Why Correct Nice Class 4 Classification Is Important

Incorrect trademark classification under Nice Class 4 can lead to:

• Trademark examination objections
• Narrow or ineffective protection for fuel and lubricant products
• Increased risk during opposition, rectification, or infringement proceedings
  A properly drafted Nice Class 4 trademark specification ensures strong brand protection across lubricants, fuels, oils, and illuminants while reducing regulatory and enforcement risks.