Transferring tickets for a concert can often be tricky, especially when it comes to VIP or upgraded experiences. Whether you’re looking to sell your VIP tickets or give them to a friend, there are a few key things to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll walk through the ins and outs of transferring VIP concert tickets, using Harry Styles’ recent “Love On Tour” as an example.
Can VIP tickets be transferred at all?
The short answer is: it depends. Every artist and promoter has their own policies around ticket transfers, so there’s no one-size-fits-all rule.
For Harry Styles’ “Love On Tour,” the official policy states that VIP packages are non-transferable. However, some venues and ticket resale platforms do allow for transfers, with certain stipulations.
So in some cases, transferring VIP tickets is possible, but there are extra steps involved compared to transferring a regular ticket. You’ll want to closely review the terms for your specific show.
Why are VIP tickets often non-transferable?
concert promoters and artists make VIP tickets non-transferrable for a few key reasons:
- To maintain exclusivity: Part of the value proposition of VIP tickets is that access is limited. Allowing transfers opens up the experience to non-VIP buyers.
- Prevent scalping/resale: VIP packages often include extra perks like merchandise, photos, early entry etc. Making them non-transferrable helps prevent people from buying VIP solely to resell at a markup.
- Manage logistics: Details like names, check-in lists and tour personnel are harder to coordinate if VIP packages change hands multiple times.
So in general, restrictions around VIP transferability come down to maintaining the intended experience.
Ways you may be able to transfer VIP tickets
While the official policy may prohibit transfers, you still have a few options to transfer VIP tickets, depending on your specific circumstances:
1. Edit the ticket name/info via Ticketmaster or AXS:
For many major tours, VIP tickets are sold via Ticketmaster, AXS or similar large ticketing platforms. Some of these sites do allow you to edit the ticket buyer name and information, even for VIP tickets.
There is typically a transfer fee involved, and it must be done 48-72 hours in advance through the ticketing site. But this can be an option if you want to send the VIP ticket to a family member or friend.
2. Resell through approved vendor sites:
Some official resale sites like Twickets do permit reselling Harry Styles VIP tickets, as they are considered “verified resale” vendors. Prices are also capped on these sites to avoid scalping. So you can transfer the ticket this way, though the process may involve fees, paperwork and buyer verification.
3. Private transfer:
While technically against policy, some people do complete transfers by changing the ticket buyer name, signing disclaimers, and handling the exchange privately. This is risky and not recommended, but can potentially be done if both parties are comfortable with it.
In any private transfer, you’ll want to take precautions like using secure payment methods, executing a transfer contract and confirming the tickets are valid. But again, this violates the event terms and may not grant the buyer VIP access.
Pros and cons of transferring VIP tickets
Before deciding whether to transfer VIP tickets, weigh the key pros and cons:
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So while transferring tickets opens up options if you can’t attend, it does come with drawbacks.
VIP benefits that may be impacted by transferring
If you do manage to transfer VIP tickets, be aware that some experiences or gifts may still be exclusive to the original ticket holder:
Merchandise
Any pre-purchased merch, like limited edition tour shirts or items, will likely have the original buyer’s name on the order. The new ticket holder may not receive those.
Early entry
Gaining early venue access requires the VIP laminate or wristband which must match the ID of the ticket buyer on file. Transfers may mean the new holder doesn’t get early entry.
Photos/meet-and-greet
These are non-transferrable. Any name change means the new ticket holder would not get access to artist photos or greet opportunities.
Gift bags
These exclusive freebies are assigned to the individual ticket buyer. The new holder may not receive the VIP gift bag.
Next steps if you need to transfer VIP tickets
If you are looking to transfer Harry Styles or other VIP concert tickets, follow these steps:
- Carefully review the tickets terms or call the box office to confirm transfer policy.
- Explore approved transfer options through official ticketing sites.
- Understand which perks may be forfeited and communicate clearly to the ticket recipient.
- Complete any required paperwork and payment promptly.
- Follow up with the box office to link new ticket holder details to the seats.
While not always possible, transfers can sometimes be facilitated through the right channels. Move quickly so your VIP tickets don’t go unused!
The bottom line on transferring VIP tickets
Due to exclusivity and logistics, most VIP concert tickets are non-transferable. However, some artists and venues do permit official resales through approved vendors, usually involving fees. Any private transfers come with risk of canceled tickets. Before transferring VIP seats, understand which perks may be lost in the process. When done carefully through official channels, transferring VIP concert tickets can be possible in some circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell my Harry Styles VIP tickets?
According to the official policy, reselling Harry Styles VIP tickets is prohibited. However, you may be able to complete a transfer through approved vendor sites for a fee. Private selling is risky and could result in canceled tickets.
How far in advance do I need to transfer VIP tickets?
If you plan to transfer via Ticketmaster or AXS, it must be done 48-72 hours prior to the event, at minimum. Further out is better to allow time for processing and linking the new buyer info. For reseller sites, list them ASAP to allow for resale.
What if I customize VIP tickets with a name that isn’t attending?
Any VIP ticket customizations, like engraved gifts or named merch, will still reflect the original ticket buyer. The new attendee would not receive personalized items.
Can I transfer the VIP benefits to someone else separately?
No, the VIP perks are tied to the concert ticket holder on file. An exception is if you have multiple VIPs in your order, you can swap benefits among your purchased tickets only.
Are Fan-to-Fan ticket transfers allowed for VIP tickets?
Likely not. While some artists permit fan ticket exchanges, they typically exclude VIP tickets, boxes or specialty packages from the transfer allowance. Strictly review policies.
Conclusion
VIP concert tickets offer fans amazing up-close access and exclusive gifts. But before transferring those coveted seats, be sure you understand the policies and potential impacts. With preparation and care, transferring VIP concert tickets is possible through approved channels in some circumstances. But the process requires coordination, paperwork and possibly sacrifice of certain perks. Weigh the pros and cons, move quickly if transferring, and double check details directly with the venue. This will give you the best shot at a smooth VIP ticket handoff.