StubHub is one of the most popular online ticket marketplaces where fans can buy and sell tickets for sporting events, concerts, theater shows, and more. With millions of transactions each year, StubHub provides a convenient way for fans to get tickets to sold out events. However, some buyers may be hesitant to purchase tickets from a resale site like StubHub due to concerns about scams, counterfeit tickets, or other issues. In this article, we’ll explore the key questions around the safety and reliability of buying NBA tickets on StubHub.
Is StubHub a legitimate and trustworthy site?
Yes, StubHub is a very legitimate and generally trustworthy site. StubHub was founded in 2000 and acquired by eBay in 2007, so it has been around for over 20 years as part of a major publicly traded company. StubHub sells millions of tickets each year across dozens of different sports leagues, venues, and events. It is an authorized ticket reseller for many teams and leagues, including the NBA. StubHub also provides buyer guarantees and protection against fraud, including refunds if tickets are invalid or do not match their listing. While no secondary market is 100% safe, StubHub has a strong track record as a safe and reputable platform.
Are the tickets listed on StubHub verified as authentic?
StubHub does have measures in place to verify tickets and ensure they are authentic and valid:
– Sellers are required to have the tickets in-hand before listing them for sale. Listings are removed if tickets are not in the seller’s possession.
– All NBA tickets sold on StubHub are electronically ticketed, meaning there is no paper ticket to counterfeit. Instead, each ticket has a unique barcode that is scannable at the venue.
– StubHub uses technology to monitor suspicious activity and flag or remove any potentially fraudulent listings.
– In the rare case a ticket is invalid or doesn’t match its listing, StubHub provides a FanProtect guarantee to give the buyer a replacement ticket or full refund.
So while no secondary market is foolproof, the electronic ticketing and protections provided by StubHub significantly minimize the risk of counterfeits. The vast majority of tickets purchased on StubHub are authentic and valid.
What if my tickets don’t arrive in time or get lost in the mail?
This is not an issue when purchasing NBA tickets on StubHub, since all are electronically ticketed. You will receive the ticket barcode and details instantly via the StubHub app after purchase. There is no physical ticket to be mailed and get lost. Even if there are last minute issues preventing you from accessing the tickets, StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee provides a full refund or comparable replacement tickets to ensure you can still attend the event.
Factors to Consider When Buying NBA Tickets on StubHub
When purchasing NBA tickets on StubHub, here are some key factors to consider:
Pricing and fees
– Ticket prices are set by sellers, based on demand. High demand games will be more expensive.
– There are fees on top of the ticket price – StubHub service fee, order processing fee, and electronic delivery fee. Fees are usually 10-20% of the ticket price.
– Prices may be higher than face value. compare StubHub prices to box office prices.
– Consider number of tickets needed and total cost when factoring in fees. Larger bulk orders have lower percentages of fees per ticket.
Section and seat location
– Check seat view before purchase to understand view obstruction, if any. Interactive seat views are provided.
– Consider goals – lower bowl offers proximity but higher costs. Upper sections have cheaper tickets.
– Review section, row, and seat numbers to evaluate location.
Seller ratings and reviews
– StubHub seller profiles show their rating, number of sales, and reviews. Look for highly rated sellers.
– Negative reviews may signal issues with a seller. Be wary of sellers with no ratings or reviews.
– Keep in mind some venues use just one account to sell all tickets, so low sales doesn’t always mean a red flag.
Purchase timing
– NBA regular season schedules are announced in mid-August. Tickets may be cheaper with more supply at early pre-sale.
– Prices typically rise as game dates approach and lower inventory leads to competition between buyers.
– Playoff ticket on-sale dates vary. Best availability comes right at the on-sale date.
– Allot time for tickets to be delivered electronically before event. Try not to purchase last minute.
Are there any hidden risks of buying from StubHub?
While StubHub is generally safe and reliable, there are a few risks to note:
Potential for fraud
No secondary ticket marketplace is 100% immune to fraud. There is a small chance fraudulent or duplicate tickets could be sold, though StubHub policies make this unlikely and the FanProtect Guarantee covers buyers in such cases. Being aware of signs of potential fraud such as prices that seem too good to be true can help avoid issues.
Last minute cancellations
Very rarely, events can be cancelled last minute after tickets have been sold. In these instances, StubHub’s refund policy protects the buyer, however it can lead to inconvenience. Checking for any updates or news on the event before buying tickets, and not purchasing too far in advance can help minimize (but not eliminate) this risk.
Inaccurate listings
StubHub has policies requiring sellers to accurately represent their listed tickets. However, there is a chance of human error leading to differences between a listing and the actual ticket (e.g. obstructed view). Reviewing seat views and seller ratings minimizes this risk. StubHub will work to find replacement tickets if issues arise.
What protection does StubHub offer if issues come up?
StubHub provides significant protection for buyers if any issues arise with tickets purchased on their marketplace:
FanProtect Guarantee
This guarantee offers:
– Replacement tickets or full refund if tickets are invalid or don’t match their listing
– Full refund if event is cancelled and not rescheduled
– Comparable replacement tickets if unable to deliver original tickets in time for event
Required seller authenticity
StubHub’s seller policies require tickets to be authentic and in-hand before listing, minimizing risk of fraud.
Identity verification
StubHub uses fraud detection tools and identity verification processes for sellers to prevent impersonations or duplicate accounts.
Secure platform and payments
StubHub protects all transactions through encryption, fraud monitoring, and partnerships with secure payment processors.
Purchase tracking
Buyers have access to tracking information and updates throughout the ticket delivery process.
Customer support
StubHub provides 24/7 customer service via phone, email, and chat in case any issues arise pre or post-purchase.
Best practices for safely buying NBA tickets on StubHub
Here are some top tips for safely buying NBA tickets on StubHub:
Vet the seller
– Check the seller’s ratings and number of sales. Look for consistent 5-star ratings.
– Review their recent sales – have they sold many similar NBA tickets before?
– Avoid any sellers without ratings or reviews, as higher risk of issues.
Inspect the listing
– Double check section, row, and seat numbers to understand the location.
– View the interactive seat map to check for obstructions.
– Read listing details fully and look out for red flags like prices that seem too good be true.
Use safe and traceable payment
– Pay through StubHub using credit card, PayPal or another payment provider with purchase protection.
– Avoid wire transfers, cash payments, or paying outside of the StubHub platform.
Save all documentation
– Keep the ticket listing information, order confirmation emails, and any other communications for reference in case any issues arise later.
Allow time for ticket delivery
– Make sure to purchase with enough time before the event for ticket delivery via email or the app.
– Avoid buying tickets up until last minute before an event. Give a buffer just in case.
Inspect tickets before entering venue
– Open your electronic tickets in the StubHub app and thoroughly check barcodes, seat info, dates etc.
– Report any discrepancies immediately to StubHub customer support.
Is it worth buying NBA tickets on StubHub vs. directly from a team or arena?
Here is a comparison of buying NBA tickets on StubHub versus directly from a team or arena box office:
| StubHub | Team/Arena Direct |
|---|---|
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There are benefits to both options. In general, StubHub offers more convenience, selection, and often better prices. However, some buyers may prefer the peace of mind of buying directly fan-to-fan even if costs are higher. For sold out high demand games especially, StubHub may be the only option. Considering show date, ticket needs, costs, and personal preferences can help determine if StubHub or direct team/arena purchase is better for specific circumstances.
Conclusion
In most cases, purchasing NBA tickets on StubHub is a safe, reliable, and convenient way to get access to games. StubHub has a strong track record and safeguards in place to ensure authentic tickets, prevent fraud, and give recourse to buyers if any issues arise. While no secondary market is 100% risk-free, StubHub has proven to be one of the most trustworthy options. Using common sense precautions like vetting sellers, avoiding last minute purchases, and thoroughly checking electronic tickets can further help ensure a smooth purchasing experience. For those comfortable buying from resellers, StubHub remains the leading NBA ticket resale marketplace. However, fans concerned about third party risks may still prefer the peace of mind of buying directly from teams or venues at typically higher prices.
