Transferring tickets on Ticketmaster can seem risky, but it is a legitimate way to safely resell tickets if done properly. Ticketmaster’s fan-to-fan ticket transfer allows ticket holders to securely transfer tickets they can no longer use to another fan for face value. This avoids sketchy resale sites and ensures the tickets remain valid. However, there are some key factors to consider when transferring or receiving transferred tickets on Ticketmaster.
The pros of transferring tickets on Ticketmaster
Here are some of the main benefits of using Ticketmaster’s official transfer system:
- It’s the most secure way to resell tickets – Tickets remain valid and traceable throughout the transfer process, avoiding invalid or duplicated tickets.
- Tickets can only be resold for face value – This avoids highly marked up prices and unaffordable resale costs.
- Easy to use on mobile – Fans can conveniently transfer and accept tickets directly from mobile devices.
- Guaranteed valid tickets – Ticketmaster verifies and guarantees all officially transferred tickets.
- Bypasses sketchy resale sites – Provides a trustworthy alternative to risky third-party resellers.
- Ticketholder maintains control – You choose who you transfer tickets to rather than general resale.
Overall, transferring through Ticketmaster means peace of mind that tickets remain legitimate and valid throughout the exchange process.
The cons of transferring tickets on Ticketmaster
However, there are also some downsides to be aware of:
- Limited to face value sales – Inability to recoup costs if demand rises.
- Additional fees – Ticketmaster charges a transfer fee to both parties.
- Time limits on transfers – Tickets can only be transferred a certain number of days before the event.
- No guarantees on buyer – You have to trust the recipient will accept and use the tickets.
- Irreversible process – Once transferred, tickets cannot be cancelled or reversed.
- Geographic limits – Tickets can only be transferred to recipients in the same country.
So while Ticketmaster’s transfer system is more secure and convenient than general resale sites, it does have restrictions that limit prices and reversibility.
How ticket transferring works on Ticketmaster
To transfer tickets on Ticketmaster, the original purchaser follows these steps:
- Access tickets through a Ticketmaster account and click “Transfer Tickets”.
- Enter the recipient’s email address or phone number.
- Set a price (must be original face value) and transfer deadline.
- Confirm transfer details and process the transfer.
- The recipient gets an email/text notification to accept the tickets.
Once initiated, the ticket owner can no longer use the tickets themselves – only the designated recipient can accept and access the tickets if they follow the instructions before the transfer expires.
Tips for safe ticket transferring
To maximize trust and minimize risk when reselling tickets, follow these tips:
- Only transfer to people you know – Avoid strangers.
- Discuss transfer plans by phone first – Confirm details verbally.
- Triple check recipient contact info – Mistakes can’t be undone.
- Set a short transfer window – 24-48 hours gives them time to accept.
- Ensure buyer accepts transfer ASAP – Confirm they can access tickets.
- Transfer early – Don’t wait until last minute in case issues arise.
Carefully vetting the recipient and giving them plenty of time to complete the transfer reduces the chance of problems.
Tips for accepting transferred tickets
If receiving transferred tickets, make sure to:
- Use the same contact info given by sender – Match email or phone number.
- Follow notification instructions ASAP – Accept transfer before it expires.
- Check account for tickets – Confirm they are visible in your Ticketmaster account.
- Download/screen shot tickets – For extra assurance and backup.
- Register tickets under your name – Optionally add to your Ticketmaster profile.
- Confirm with sender – Let them know transfer worked successfully.
Completing these steps promptly ensures a smooth transfer process.
Checking ticket validity
Wondering if transferred tickets are legitimate? Here are ways to verify:
- Ensure tickets appear in your Ticketmaster account with a valid barcode.
- Contact Ticketmaster customer service for confirmation.
- Scan tickets on event day at venue box office for validity.
- Buy ticket insurance for invalidation protection.
- Only purchase from trusted sources like friends.
- Avoid too good to be true prices that signal scams.
As long as you only use Ticketmaster’s official transfer process between trusted contacts, the tickets remain 100% valid and guaranteed for entry.
Common ticket transfer FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Ticketmaster’s transfer process:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is there a fee to transfer or receive tickets? | Yes, Ticketmaster charges a transfer fee to both parties of around 15% of the ticket price. |
| Can tickets be transferred back to the original owner? | No, transferred tickets can only go to the designated recipient and cannot be reversed. |
| What happens if the recipient doesn’t accept the transfer in time? | If the transfer expires before the recipient accepts, the tickets revert back to the sender. |
| Can the price be changed during a transfer? | No, tickets can only be transferred at original face value as paid by the original buyer. |
Conclusion
Transferring tickets through Ticketmaster is generally safe and convenient when all policies and procedures are properly followed. Sticking to face value sale between trusted parties, confirming ticket validity afterward, and completing transfers promptly minimizes risk and confusion. While not without fees and limits, it succeeds as a secure fan-to-fan exchange when used correctly and avoids the hazards of general resale markets. With caution and care, fans can comfortably resell and acquire tickets through Ticketmaster’s official transfer system.
