The short answer is yes, people do resell wireless tickets like concert, sports, and event tickets. The advent of mobile ticketing through apps and websites has made it easier than ever for people to resell tickets they can no longer use.
Why Do People Resell Tickets?
There are a few main reasons people look to resell their tickets:
They Can No Longer Attend
The most common reason is simply not being able to attend the event anymore. People’s schedules change and conflicts come up that prevent them from being able to go. Rather than letting the ticket go to waste, they opt to resell it and get some of their money back.
To Make a Profit
Some people will intentionally buy tickets with the goal of reselling them for a profit. They will target high-demand events that are likely to sell out and be in short supply. By buying early and then reselling once tickets are scarce, they can sell for more than face value and make a tidy profit.
They Changed Their Mind
Buyer’s remorse can set in after purchasing tickets. Perhaps the reviews come in and the event doesn’t live up to expectations. Or other plans come up that seem more appealing. Rather than go through with a disappointing experience, reselling provides an easy out.
How Do People Resell Wireless Tickets?
There are a few popular methods people use to resell their tickets:
Ticket Resale Sites
Large resale marketplaces like StubHub, Vivid Seats and SeatGeek make reselling tickets easy. Sellers can list their tickets for sale in just a few clicks. These sites handle all the buyer payments and transfers, for a fee.
Social Media
Posting on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social sites to resell tickets has become very common. The wide reach and networks make it possible to find interested buyers. Payment and transfer are handled privately between seller and buyer.
Craigslist and Classifieds Sites
Old standbys like Craigslist are still widely used to post tickets for sale locally. Buyers and sellers connect directly to exchange payment and tickets.
Outside the Venue
For high-demand events, plenty of people still look to sell their extra tickets by holding them up outside the venue. This allows for in-person exchange of cash for tickets.
Are There Risks to Buying Resold Tickets?
There are some risks buyers should be aware of when purchasing resold tickets:
Tickets Could be Fake or Scams
Unfortunately, scammers do try to sell fake or non-existent tickets. Buyers should be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Tickets May be Invalidated
In some cases, venues will invalidate tickets that have been resold in order to crack down on scalping. This leaves the buyer shut out of the event.
No Recourse if Issues Arise
Dealing directly with an individual reseller limits options if there are problems with tickets. Venues will not provide support for unofficial resales.
Tips for Reselling Tickets
If you want to resell your tickets, here are some best practices:
Sell Early
Tickets tend to get most interest right after the initial on-sale. Prices typically go down as the event nears. So sell early to maximize profit.
Price Competitively
Research what other resellers are asking for the same tickets. Price yours competitively to attract buyers.
Use a Reputable Site
Avoid potential scams and issues by selling through an established resale marketplace.
Transfer Securely
Use safe digital ticket transferring that requires a unique link or barcode to ensure only the buyer gains access.
Disclose Key Details
Note relevant info like seat location, restrictions, delivery method upfront so buyers know exactly what they are getting.
Legality of Ticket Resales
The legality of ticket resales varies in different states and countries. Here are some key points on the laws:
State/Country | Reselling Legality |
---|---|
California | Legal except for resale above face value at venue |
New York | Legal except for resale above face value near venue |
UK | Legal to resell for profit |
Germany | Reselling for more than face value is illegal |
It’s important to check your local laws before reselling tickets. Many sports teams and live event organizers also have their own resale policies, usually restricting profits.
The Future of Ticket Resales
The prevalence of mobile ticketing is likely to continue increasing ticket resales. Some predict the following trends in the future:
More Secure Transfers
Blockchain, NFTs, biometrics and other tech may be integrated for more secure ticket sales and resales.
First Party Resales
More teams/venues will create official resale exchanges through their own site or app.
Crackdown on Bots
Measures like CAPTCHA will make it harder for resellers to use bots to buy up tickets.
Price Caps
New laws may limit resale profits to combat scalping and make events affordable.
Conclusion
Ticket resales are common, driven by factors like changing plans and profit motives. Mobile ticketing has enabled a thriving secondary market on various online platforms. Buyers should be aware of potential risks like invalid tickets. And resellers need to follow local laws on pricing and sales venues. New technologies and regulations will likely shape the future of how event tickets are resold.