With Ticketmaster being one of the largest ticket providers for concerts, sports events, and more, it’s no surprise that their ticket queues and waiting rooms can get incredibly crowded for high-demand events. While Ticketmaster utilizes their “Verified Fan” system and smart queues to create a more fair and randomized system, many fans are still left frustrated when they can’t get tickets. So is there any way to improve your chances and bypass the Ticketmaster queues?
Understanding Ticketmaster’s Queuing Systems
First, it helps to understand how Ticketmaster’s different queue systems work:
General On-Sale Queues
For a general on-sale without a Verified Fan registration, Ticketmaster will randomly assign spots in the queue when users log in or access the waiting room. This fully randomized queue is meant to level the playing field so bots don’t dominate ticket purchases.
Verified Fan Queues
For high demand events, Ticketmaster utilizes their Verified Fan system. Fans must pre-register days or weeks in advance and Ticketmaster confirms they are real users, not bots. Verified Fans are then selected at random and notified in advance to access the sale. This again tries to eliminate bots and give everyone an equal chance.
Smart Queues
Ticketmaster’s Smart Queues incorporate their proprietary system that “prioritizes fans who visit the event page earlier, have followed previous interactions, and have not violated Ticketmaster’s Terms of Use.” So the longer you’ve expressed interest in an event, the higher your spot may be in the Smart Queue.
Techniques to Bypass Queues
While completely bypassing Ticketmaster’s queues and waiting rooms isn’t really possible, there are some techniques fans use to try to improve their spot in line and chances of getting tickets:
Use Multiple Devices
Having multiple devices logged in across different IP addresses gives you multiple spots in the virtual line. Use your desktop, laptop, tablet, phone, family member’s devices, etc. to queue on multiple fronts.
Try Incognito Mode
Queueing in an incognito or private browser window clears your cookies and data. Some believe this may reset how long Ticketmaster thinks you’ve been waiting in the Smart Queue and boost your spot.
Queue Early
Join the Ticketmaster waiting room or virtual queue the absolute second it opens, even hours before the sale begins. Supposedly the earlier you’re in line, the better spot you may have.
Use Pre-Sale Codes
Take advantage of artist or venue presales by finding presale codes online through fan clubs or social media. Presales have limited ticket inventory but usually less competition.
Reload Constantly
Once you make it through the queue, rapidly reload and try for tickets as others may release holds. Don’t stop until the event shows sold out.
Use a Ticket Bot Service
Warning: Not Recommended. There are many third-party ticket bot services that illegally purchase then resell tickets at inflated prices. These bots can overwhelm queues and shut out real fans.
Tips to Improve Your Queue Position
Aside from technical tricks, there are some general tips that may help land you a better spot in Ticketmaster’s queues:
- Register early as a Verified Fan when available
- Create and log into your Ticketmaster account in advance
- Ensure your Ticketmaster account details are up to date
- Express interest on social media and interact with the event pages
- Don’t open too many tabs as Ticketmaster may flag this
- Use a strong internet connection and latest browsers
- Be ready on multiple devices at queue open time
Have Backup Tickets Sources
Even if you follow all the tricks, Ticketmaster queues are never a guarantee. Always check:
- The box office for ticket availability
- The venue’s social media for special promotions
- Reputable resale sites and marketplaces
Having backups helps take the pressure off competing in Ticketmaster’s crowds.
The Reality of Bypassing Queues
The reality is Ticketmaster has spent decades perfecting their queue systems and preventions against bots, so there are no magic shortcuts or hacks. Their priority is limiting scalpers and leveling the playing field for all fans.
While the following table summarizes some of the popular techniques users attempt for better queue position, none can guarantee tickets:
Technique | Does it Work? |
---|---|
Using multiple devices | Helps slightly |
Trying incognito mode | No evidence it helps |
Queueing extremely early | May help a little |
Using presale codes | Less competition |
Reloading constantly | Necessary once queued |
Ticket bots | Unethical and illegal |
Keep expectations realistic, as even Ticketmaster notes “there are absolutely no guarantees that these tips will help fans acquire tickets” to extremely popular events when demand greatly outpaces supply.
Focus on Presales and Preparedness
Rather than constant tricks and shortcuts, the best way to beat the queues is being ultra prepared with presale code access and ready across multiple devices the instant the waiting room opens.
Stay persistent through any queues or ticket rejections – as long as the event isn’t marked sold out, keep trying!
Ethical Ways to Avoid the Queue
If you want to avoid Ticketmaster’s queues and waiting rooms entirely, there are a few ethical options, though limited for the biggest events:
- Buy directly from the box office – though usually very limited inventory
- Find sponsor or radio presales – Get special access before general on-sales
- Attend artist fan club presales – Fan clubs often get first access
- Buy VIP packages – Guaranteed tickets bundled with perks, at premium pricing
For high demand shows that sell out in seconds, these queue-bypassing options are some of the only ways to score tickets. The key is doing your research and preparation.
Avoid Unethical Bypasses like Bots
With so much frustration and demand surrounding competitive Ticketmaster sales, it’s understandable some fans are tempted to turn to ticket bots or ticket brokers that illegally obtain inventory. However, this leads to:
- Higher prices – Brokers/bots snap up tickets only to massively upcharge fans
- Unfair advantages – Bots cut in line ahead of real fans in queues
- Broken system – The more bots succeed, the more useless real queues become
So while bots may allow some users to bypass queues, they make the situation worse for everyone and go against what Ticketmaster queues aim to solve. Avoid these unethical practices to help other fans get fair ticket access.
Contact Your Lawmakers
If you want real change, contact your state lawmakers in support of anti-bot legislation. Many states now have laws making it illegal to use ticket bots, crimping this unethical advantage. New York’s BOTS Act has been a model for nationwide reform.
Final Thoughts
Ticketmaster’s queues undoubtedly cause headaches, but bypassing them entirely for major events is nearly impossible through ethical means. The best options are being extremely prepared on all fronts, focusing on presales, and avoiding temptation from bots or brokers.
Keep in mind that Ticketmaster queues are designed for fairness, not convenience. While not a perfect system, it beats the lawless bots dominating sales. With persistence and a bit of luck, real fans can still score tickets.
Conclusion
Despite rumors of queue-jumping tricks, Ticketmaster has carefully engineered their waiting rooms to create a level playing field for high-demand tickets. While techniques like using multiple devices and presales can help, there are no magic shortcuts.
The best and most ethical strategy is being ready across all options the moment queues open. Avoid unethical bots and brokers, as convenience for some creates misery for others. Persistence, preparation, and a bit of patience gives everyone the same fair shot at beating the lines.