Can I Sell My Design Patent?
How to Sell a Design Patent?
Yes—you can absolutely sell a design patent, and in many cases, you can even sell a pending design patent application. A design patent is a form of intellectual property, and like other valuable assets, it can be sold, licensed, or transferred to another party. If you’ve protected the appearance of a product with a design patent, you own rights that may be attractive to manufacturers, brands, or competitors looking to expand their product line or strengthen their market position.
What Exactly Can Be Sold?
You don’t have to wait until your patent is fully issued to monetize it. You can sell:
- A granted design patent
- A pending design patent application
- Or the rights to use the design through a licensing agreement
Each option comes with different financial and strategic outcomes depending on whether you want a one-time payout or long-term income.
Two Ways to Monetize a Design Patent
There are two primary methods for turning your design patent into revenue:
1. Assignment (Full Sale)
This is a complete transfer of ownership. The buyer becomes the new patent owner, and you receive a lump sum or structured payment. After the assignment, you no longer control the design.
2. Licensing (Ongoing Royalties)
With licensing, you keep ownership of your patent while allowing another party to use, manufacture, or sell the design. In return, you earn royalties based on sales or a negotiated fee. This approach can provide recurring income and long-term upside if the product performs well.
Are Design Patents Valuable?
Design patents can be very valuable—especially when they protect a distinctive, marketable look. A unique product design can become a recognizable part of a brand’s identity, influencing consumer loyalty and pricing power. When combined with utility patents, design patents also strengthen a company’s overall intellectual property portfolio.
The actual value of a design patent depends on factors such as:
- Market demand for the product
- Commercial viability
- Remaining term of the patent
- Ease of manufacturing
- Competitive advantage created by the design
Some design patents sell for a few thousand dollars, while others can reach six figures or more if the market opportunity is strong.
Who Buys a Design Patent?
Buyers are typically companies that already operate in the same or a closely related industry. Manufacturers, distributors, and competitors are often the most motivated because they can immediately put the design into production or use it to block rivals. Investors and IP-focused firms may also purchase design patents for resale or licensing.
There are also specialized online platforms where patents can be listed for sale, making it easier to connect with potential buyers.
How to Sell a Design Patent: Key Steps
1. Evaluate the Patent’s Value
Estimate its fair market value by considering production costs, target market size, and potential revenue. Professional patent valuation services can help.
2. Identify Potential Buyers
Look for businesses already selling similar products or companies with strong manufacturing and distribution networks.
3. Prepare Marketing Materials
Create a professional “sell sheet” or prototype that clearly shows what makes your design visually unique and commercially attractive.
4. Protect Your Design Patent Idea
Before sharing detailed drawings or concepts, use a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to safeguard your rights.
5. Negotiate and Transfer Ownership
Once a deal is reached, an assignment or licensing agreement should be drafted—usually by an intellectual property attorney—and recorded with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Pending Applications Can Be Sold
Even if your design patent hasn’t been approved yet, it can still be transferred. In this case, the buyer assumes control of the application and any future rights that come with it. This can be appealing if the buyer wants to guide the prosecution process or integrate the design into a product pipeline early.
Should You Sell or License?
Choosing between a full sale and licensing depends on your goals:
- Sell if you want a fast, guaranteed payout with no future obligations.
- License if you believe the design has long-term commercial potential and you want recurring revenue.
If finding a buyer for a full sale proves difficult, licensing can be a more flexible and profitable alternative.
Sell a Design Patent: How to Do It & How Much It’s Worth
Selling a design patent is not just legally possible—it can be financially rewarding when done correctly. The process involves valuation, confidentiality, negotiation, and formal legal transfer. Working with a patent attorney or broker can help you avoid costly mistakes and maximize your return. Whether you sell outright or license for royalties, your design patent is more than paperwork—it’s a business asset with real market value.