Purchasing event tickets online can be convenient, but sometimes plans change and you need to return or exchange tickets. If you originally bought tickets on Ticketmaster but now want to return them through a different resale platform like SeatGeek, it is possible but involves a few extra steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to returning tickets bought on Ticketmaster to SeatGeek.
Check the Original Ticketmaster Order Details
Before doing anything, check the details of your original Ticketmaster order. Make note of important information including:
- The event name, date, time, and venue
- The section, row, and seat numbers for each ticket
- Any special instructions or requirements printed on the tickets
- The original order confirmation number and order date
Having these details handy will make the return process smoother. Ticketmaster may require you to verify ticket details before allowing a return.
Review the Ticketmaster Return Policy
Every ticket seller has their own rules and timelines for returns and exchanges. Before attempting to return tickets to SeatGeek, check Ticketmaster’s policy. Key things to look for include:
- How far in advance of the event you need to request a return
- If returns are allowed at all for this type of ticket
- Any fees charged for returns or exchanges
- If you will get a full refund or just credit for future events
Knowing the policies upfront prevents surprises later. Make sure you can successfully return the tickets through Ticketmaster before moving forward.
Request a Return Through Ticketmaster
Once you’ve verified the tickets are refundable, start the return process through Ticketmaster. How to do this depends on how you originally purchased them:
Tickets Bought Online
If you purchased tickets through Ticketmaster.com, Eventbrite.com, or the Ticketmaster app, request a refund online through your Ticketmaster account. Log in, find the order, and select the “Refund” button next to each ticket. Follow the prompts to complete the request.
Tickets Bought by Phone or In Person
For tickets purchased over the phone or in person at a Ticketmaster outlet, call Ticketmaster customer service. Explain you need to return the tickets and they will guide you through the process. Have your order confirmation number ready when you call.
It may take a few days to get an update on whether your return request is approved. If denied for any reason, you will need to explore other options like reselling through Ticketmaster instead.
List the Tickets on SeatGeek
Once Ticketmaster confirms the return is accepted, you can relist the tickets on SeatGeek. First, you’ll need to create a seller account if you don’t already have one. Make sure to use the same email as your Ticketmaster account.
Next, you can list the tickets just like any reseller. Enter all the key event and ticket details. Set competitive pricing based on current resale rates. Add clear photos showing the ticket details. Provide quick shipping/delivery options.
Here are some tips for listing tickets on SeatGeek:
- Set the quantity to exactly match what you are returning to avoid overselling.
- Choose electronic ticket transfer as the default delivery method.
- Respond quickly to buyer questions to boost confidence.
- Offer express shipping upgrades for last-minute purchases.
Listing the tickets as soon as possible gives you the best chance of reselling them before the event happens.
Coordinate the Transfer
Once a buyer purchases your relisted tickets on SeatGeek, you need to complete the delivery. But first, wait until the Ticketmaster refund comes through to avoid any processing issues. This usually takes 5-7 business days.
To transfer the tickets:
- Log into your Ticketmaster account and find the original order.
- Use the “Transfer Tickets” feature to send them directly to the buyer’s email address.
- Communicate with the buyer to confirm they received the ticket transfer correctly.
Electronic transfers are usually instant as long as the buyer’s email is entered correctly. You may need to retry the transfer or look up the correct address if there are any issues.
Follow Up With SeatGeek
Finally, confirm everything went smoothly on the SeatGeek side. As the seller, you should:
- Mark the order as “Delivered” in your Seller Account
- Check for positive feedback from the buyer
- Respond to any questions from SeatGeek Support if needed
Providing great customer service builds your reputation on the marketplace. Following up properly closes the loop on the return and relisting process.
Key Tips for Returning Ticketmaster Tickets to SeatGeek
Returning tickets bought on Ticketmaster through a SeatGeek relisting takes coordination but is very doable. Keep these tips in mind:
- Start the Ticketmaster return first and wait for approval.
- Don’t relist tickets until the refund is processed.
- Transfer tickets electronically for fastest delivery.
- Communicate proactively with buyers at every step.
- Follow up with SeatGeek Support to confirm satisfaction.
Following the proper sequence and being transparent along the way minimizes headaches. With some diligence, you can successfully return tickets from Ticketmaster to SeatGeek.
Common Questions about Returning Ticketmaster Tickets to SeatGeek
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Ticketmaster to SeatGeek return process:
How long does it take to get a Ticketmaster refund?
Ticketmaster aims to process returns within 5-7 business days. Actual timing depends on your original payment method. Refunds to credit cards are fastest, while mailed checks can take weeks.
What if Ticketmaster won’t approve my return request?
If your return is denied, you may still be able to resell the tickets on SeatGeek yourself. Review the Ticketmaster resale policies, list the tickets under your account, and manage the delivery yourself.
What are SeatGeek’s seller fees?
SeatGeek charges a 10% fee for each resale transaction. This is taken out of the final selling price. There are no upfront listing fees.
How can I transfer tickets safely?
Electronic ticket transfers directly to the buyer’s email address is safest. Only use expedited shipping for last-minute purchases. Require a signature confirmation upon physical ticket delivery.
What if something goes wrong with the ticket transfer?
Contact SeatGeek customer support right away if there are any issues. Communicate closely with buyers and provide updates. Most problems can be resolved quickly.
Comparing Ticketmaster and SeatGeek for Buying and Reselling
Ticketmaster and SeatGeek take different approaches to ticket sales. Here is a comparison:
Ticketmaster | SeatGeek | |
---|---|---|
Primary focus | Official primary ticket source | Secondary ticket resale marketplace |
Main inventory | Direct from venues and event organizers | Resellers listing extra tickets |
Buying fees | Varies, can be high per ticket | Low flat fee per order |
Selling fees | 15-20% of resale price | 10% of resale price |
Ticket delivery | Electronic, mail, or pick-up | Mostly electronic transfers |
Cancellation/returns | Restrictive policies | Set by individual sellers |
Buyer protections | Guarantee directly from source | Refunds if issues with tickets |
In summary, Ticketmaster is the go-to source for newly released event tickets. SeatGeek specializes more in the secondary resale market. For returning tickets originally bought on Ticketmaster, SeatGeek provides more reselling flexibility.
Conclusion
Returning tickets bought from Ticketmaster but resold on SeatGeek involves a few extra steps but is definitely achievable. Be sure to follow the proper sequence – process the return first, wait for the refund, then coordinate the transfer. Communicate proactively with buyers throughout the process. If done properly, you can successfully release unwanted tickets without losing any money in fees or charges. Paying attention to the details results in a smooth experience for both the buyer and seller across Ticketmaster and SeatGeek.