How to choose and reserve a business name
Your name is on every quote, sign and post you will ever make, so it is worth getting right before you print anything. Here is how to choose a name that works, check it is available, reserve it with CIPC, and protect it.
What makes a good name
- Easy to say and spell, so people can find you after hearing it once.
- Says what you do or where, at least at first: "Mkhize Plumbing" beats a clever word nobody can place.
- Not too close to a competitor, which causes confusion and can cause legal trouble.
- Room to grow: avoid tying yourself to one suburb if you plan to expand.
Check it is available
Search the name on the CIPC register, search it online, and check the matching .co.za domain and social media handles. A name that is free on CIPC but taken everywhere online will be hard to own.
Reserve it with CIPC
You can reserve a company name with CIPC before or while registering the company. It is wise to submit a few options in order of preference, since a name that is too similar to an existing one will be rejected.
A company name is not a trademark
Registering a company name with CIPC does not give you the exclusive right to use it as a brand. That protection comes from a registered trademark. See how to register a trademark.
Then register the domain in your business's name and claim the handles, even if you will not use them yet.
Common questions
How do I check if a business name is available in South Africa?
Search it on the CIPC register, search it online, and check whether the matching .co.za domain and social media handles are free.
How do I reserve a company name?
Through CIPC, before or while registering the company. Submit a few options in order of preference, since names too similar to existing ones are rejected.
Does registering a company name protect my brand?
Not fully. A company name registration does not give exclusive rights to use the name as a brand. For that you need a registered trademark.