Trying to get tickets to a hot concert or sporting event through Ticketmaster can be incredibly frustrating. As soon as tickets go on sale, fans rush to buy seats and huge digital lines form. So how do you know where you stand in the Ticketmaster queue? Here are some tips to help you figure out your place in line.
Check the Wait Time Indicator
When you’re waiting in the Ticketmaster queue, keep an eye on the wait time indicator near the top of the page. This will give you a rough estimate of how long you can expect to wait before getting through to buy tickets. The time is usually presented as a range, like “Over an hour” or “15-30 minutes.” This wait time is based on the number of people ahead of you in line and how quickly the queue is moving. The estimated time range will continuously update, so check it periodically to get a sense of whether you’re moving up in line or waiting times are increasing.
Look for Your Position Number
In addition to the wait time indicator, Ticketmaster may also show your numerical position in line. Keep an eye out for a “Position” number that tells you exactly how many people are ahead of you waiting for tickets. This position number will countdown as users complete their purchases and drop out of queue. Watching this position counter can give you a good idea of how quickly you’re moving up towards the front of the line. As your number gets smaller, you know your time to purchase is approaching.
Sign Up for Status Alerts
Ticketmaster offers an optional line status alert feature you can use to monitor your place in line. When you’re first queued up, you’ll see an option to enter your cell phone number to receive text or email updates on your line position. If you opt in, Ticketmaster will send periodic messages alerting you as you get closer to the front. This saves you from having to continuously watch the queue. Instead, you can go about your day and just check your phone when Ticketmaster notifies you that your turn is coming up.
Pay Attention to Messages
As you’re waiting in the Ticketmaster line, keep an eye out for any status messages that may be displayed. These could notify you if there’s a delay in queue processing, if tickets are close to selling out, or if you’re approaching the front of the line. Taking note of these messages can give you a better sense of where you stand in the process. Make sure to read them carefully so you don’t miss important queue updates.
Check Your Browser Tab Regularly
Don’t wander away from your computer too long when you’re queued up for hot tickets. Try to keep your browser tab open and check back every few minutes if possible. This allows you to monitor your wait time, line position, and any status messages. If you come back after an extended break, you may find you’ve lost your place in line completely. Staying attentive reduces your risk of losing your coveted spot.
Compare With Friends
If you have friends who are also in the Ticketmaster queue with you, compare notes on your wait times and line positions. Cross-referencing can give you a better sense of how quickly the line is moving. You’ll know something’s up if they started way behind you but somehow are now closer to the front. Collaboration with pals can help you estimate the speed of queue progress.
Factor in Demand
When gauging your place in line, think about the popularity of the event you’re trying to buy tickets for. The more in-demand the concert or show, the slower the Ticketmaster queue will move as site traffic spikes. If tickets are highly coveted, be prepared for longer wait times as the massive virtual line inches forward. Your position number may not decline as quickly as you hope. Be patient and hang in there.
Don’t Despair If Time Increases
Sometimes the expected wait time showing in your Ticketmaster queue will go up rather than down. Don’t panic if you see your estimated time suddenly jump from 20 minutes to over an hour. This usually just means a lot of new fans jumped in line behind you. As long as your position number is still decreasing, you’re still moving closer. Focus on the position rather than estimated times, which can fluctuate a lot.
Have A Back-Up Plan
Waiting in the Ticketmaster line doesn’t guarantee you’ll get seats. Be prepared that you may wait a long time only to find out tickets sold out before you had a chance to buy. Always have a back-up plan whether it’s looking for resale tickets later or considering a different event. Don’t pin all your hopes on the Ticketmaster queue working out.
Conclusion
Tracking your place in the Ticketmaster sales line requires paying attention to estimated wait times, position numbers, status messages and more. Having patience is also key, as queues for popular events can crawl along. Persistence and periodically checking your status will eventually help you reach the front. With the right info and some luck, you’ll get through the line to buy those coveted tickets.