Selling on Stubhub vs Ticketmaster: Which Is Best?
So, you’ve got tickets to sell? You’re in good company. Millions of people buy and sell tickets online every day. The question is, where do you list them for the best chance of success and the most favorable terms? Two of the biggest names in the game are battling it out: StubHub and Ticketmaster.
Choosing between selling on StubHub vs Ticketmaster can be a tough decision. Each platform offers a vast marketplace, but they also have different fees, listing processes, and levels of support for sellers. Understanding the pros and cons of each is crucial for maximizing your profits and minimizing headaches.
This comparison dives deep into the details, helping you make an informed choice. We’ll explore the key features, pricing structures, and overall user experience of both StubHub and Ticketmaster. Get ready to learn which platform is the best fit for your specific needs as a ticket seller.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | StubHub | Ticketmaster |
|---|---|---|
| Listing Fees | Yes | Yes |
| Service Fees (Buyer) | Yes | Yes |
| Event Types | Concerts, Sports, Theater, etc. | Concerts, Sports, Theater, etc. |
| Ticket Verification | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Seller Tools | Yes | Yes |
| Buyer Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Payment Options | Various | Various |
| Ticket Transfer | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Support | Yes | Yes |
| International Events | Yes | Yes |
| Resale Availability | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Listing Process
- Selling on Stubhub: StubHub offers a user-friendly listing process with clear instructions and tools to help you set your price. It allows for quick listing and management of tickets, but may have some limitations on customization compared to Ticketmaster.
- Ticketmaster: Ticketmaster’s listing process, while comprehensive, can sometimes be perceived as more complex, especially for first-time sellers. It provides robust tools for managing listings, including pricing suggestions based on market data, but the interface can feel less intuitive.
- Winner: StubHub
Fees
- Selling on Stubhub: StubHub typically charges a seller fee, which is a percentage of the sale price. The fee structure can vary, and it’s important to understand the specific charges for each transaction.
- Ticketmaster: Ticketmaster also charges seller fees, which can include both a listing fee and a percentage of the sale. The fees can vary depending on the event and ticket price.
- Winner: Tie
Payout Options
- Selling on Stubhub: StubHub provides various payout options, including direct deposit, which is a convenient and generally reliable method. Payout times can vary.
- Ticketmaster: Ticketmaster also offers various payout options, including direct deposit and potentially other methods. Payout times can vary depending on the event and the terms of sale.
- Winner: Tie
Market Reach
- Selling on Stubhub: StubHub has a vast global reach and a strong brand recognition, attracting a large audience of potential buyers. This can increase the chances of selling tickets quickly.
- Ticketmaster: Ticketmaster has a massive market reach, especially in North America, due to its dominance in primary ticketing. Access to a large pool of potential buyers is a significant advantage.
- Winner: Ticketmaster
Customer Support
- Selling on Stubhub: StubHub offers customer support to both buyers and sellers, which can be accessed through various channels like phone, email, or chat. Support quality can vary.
- Ticketmaster: Ticketmaster provides customer support, but some users have reported varying experiences with response times and the helpfulness of the support team.
- Winner: Tie
Guarantees
- Selling on Stubhub: StubHub offers a FanProtect Guarantee, which provides assurances to both buyers and sellers. This can include guarantees against fraudulent tickets and payment protection.
- Ticketmaster: Ticketmaster offers guarantees, including protection against fake tickets, which provides a level of security for both buyers and sellers.
- Winner: Tie
Pricing Tools
- Selling on Stubhub: StubHub offers pricing tools and data to help sellers determine the optimal price for their tickets, but the tools may not be as sophisticated as Ticketmaster’s.
- Ticketmaster: Ticketmaster’s pricing tools often provide more detailed data and market insights, including pricing suggestions based on real-time market trends, which can help sellers maximize their profits.
- Winner: Ticketmaster
Integration & Tools
- Selling on Stubhub: StubHub provides tools for managing listings. Integration with other platforms may be limited.
- Ticketmaster: Ticketmaster offers more extensive tools for managing listings and, in some cases, integrates with other services.
- Winner: Ticketmaster
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Ticket Selection (Resale) | StubHub |
| Primary Ticket Sales | Ticketmaster |
| Buyer Protection | StubHub |
| User Interface | Tie |
| Fees | Tie |
| Event Variety | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Event Variety: Both platforms offer a wide range of events, including concerts, sports games, theater performances, and more, catering to diverse interests.
- Ticket Resale: Both StubHub and Ticketmaster provide a marketplace for buying and selling tickets, allowing users to purchase tickets from other fans or sell their own.
- Mobile Access: Both platforms have dedicated mobile apps, enabling users to browse events, purchase tickets, manage their orders, and access digital tickets on the go.
- Ticket Verification: Both platforms implement measures to verify ticket authenticity, protecting buyers from counterfeit tickets and ensuring a secure purchasing experience.
- Customer Support: Both StubHub and Ticketmaster offer customer support channels, such as online help centers, email, or phone support, to assist users with inquiries or issues.
Selling On Stubhub Vs Ticketmaster Buying Guide
Understanding Fees and Payouts
Both StubHub and Ticketmaster charge fees, but the structure can differ significantly. StubHub generally charges sellers a fee, usually around 10-15% of the sale price. Ticketmaster’s fees can vary, often including a seller fee and a separate “processing” fee. Payout times also vary; StubHub typically offers quicker payouts. It’s crucial to understand these fee structures and payout timelines to accurately assess your potential profits when listing tickets. Consider the final amount you’ll receive after all fees are deducted to make an informed decision.
Listing Your Tickets: Ease of Use
The listing process is a key factor. StubHub often has a more user-friendly interface, guiding you through the listing process with clear steps. Ticketmaster’s listing process can sometimes feel less intuitive, especially for those unfamiliar with their system. Both platforms allow you to set your price and manage your listings, but the ease of navigation and the availability of helpful resources can impact your experience. Consider how quickly and easily you can list your tickets.
Ticket Verification and Delivery Options
Both platforms have systems to verify tickets’ authenticity. Ticketmaster, as the primary seller of many tickets, often has an advantage here. StubHub also offers a guarantee, but the verification process may differ slightly. Delivery methods play a crucial role. Ticketmaster generally facilitates digital delivery directly to the buyer’s account. StubHub offers various options, including digital, PDF, and sometimes physical tickets depending on the event. Understanding the delivery options available and how they align with your tickets is essential.
Market Reach and Visibility
Consider the size of the marketplace and how many potential buyers can see your tickets. Ticketmaster benefits from its association with the primary ticket sales, attracting a large audience. StubHub, as a well-established secondary market, also has a significant reach. Evaluate the visibility of your listings on each platform. Research the average number of listings for similar tickets on each platform to estimate your chances of a sale. The larger the marketplace, the greater your opportunity to find a buyer.
Customer Support and Seller Protection
Customer support is vital if issues arise. Evaluate the available support channels, such as phone, email, or live chat. Both platforms offer seller protection policies designed to shield you from certain risks. Investigate how each platform handles disputes, cancellations, or fraudulent transactions. Reading reviews about customer service experiences can also provide insights into the support you can expect. A reliable customer support system can significantly impact your experience as a seller.
Pricing Strategies and Competition
Pricing strategy significantly impacts your sales. Research the market and understand the prices of similar tickets. Both platforms allow you to adjust your prices, but understanding the competition is crucial. Consider using pricing tools or competitor analysis to set competitive prices. Be aware of dynamic pricing fluctuations based on demand. Monitor your listings’ performance and adjust your prices accordingly. Optimizing your pricing strategy increases your chances of selling your tickets quickly and at a favorable price.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy StubHub If…
- You want to browse a wider selection of tickets, especially for sold-out events.
- You prioritize potentially finding better deals through competitive pricing from various sellers.
- You value the buyer protection guarantee offered, which can provide peace of mind.
- You prefer a user-friendly interface with features designed for ticket resale.
Buy Ticketmaster If…
- You prefer purchasing tickets directly from the primary seller, especially for new releases.
- You’re looking for tickets to events where Ticketmaster has exclusive distribution rights.
- You want to use the official platform for events, directly supporting the artists and venues.
- You prefer a more streamlined purchasing experience and integrated features like Verified Fan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fees do sellers typically pay on StubHub?
StubHub typically charges sellers a fee, which usually falls between 10% and 15% of the final sale price. The exact percentage depends on various factors, including the event and ticket price. Remember that the fees are deducted from the amount you earn. This fee helps StubHub cover its operational costs, including customer support, platform maintenance, and marketing efforts. Always factor in these fees when setting your listing price to ensure you receive the desired profit.
What are the fee structures on Ticketmaster for sellers?
Ticketmaster’s fee structure can be complex. Typically, they charge a seller fee, a processing fee, and sometimes additional fees. These fees can vary significantly depending on the event and the ticket type. Understanding all the fees is critical. Be prepared to potentially pay multiple fees, as the exact fee structure is not always transparent. Review the breakdown carefully before listing your tickets.
How long does it typically take to get paid after selling on StubHub?
StubHub generally offers relatively quick payouts. You can typically expect to receive your payment within a week or so after the event takes place. The exact timeframe may vary depending on the payment method you choose and StubHub’s processing times. Choose the payment method that suits your needs and ensure your payment information is accurate to avoid delays. Staying informed about the payment schedule is essential.
How long does it typically take to get paid after selling on Ticketmaster?
Ticketmaster’s payout times can vary. It often takes a few business days after the event concludes for the funds to be available. The exact timing depends on the payment method and the processing procedures. Double-check your account details for accuracy to avoid potential delays. Review the payout schedule and ensure that you’re prepared for the expected timeframe to receive your funds after the event.
Which platform offers a more user-friendly listing process?
Many users find StubHub’s listing process to be more user-friendly and intuitive. It typically offers a straightforward, step-by-step approach. Ticketmaster’s listing process can sometimes feel less intuitive, especially for those new to the platform. Both platforms allow you to set your price and manage listings, but the overall experience can vary. Assess the ease of use and the resources available to you.
How do I ensure my tickets are authentic on these platforms?
Both platforms have measures to verify ticket authenticity. Ticketmaster, as the primary seller, often has an advantage in this area. StubHub also offers a guarantee. Always ensure the tickets are valid. If you are a buyer, be sure to verify the tickets through the platform’s authentication process. Verify your tickets’ legitimacy to avoid any issues or scams when selling or buying.
What happens if my event is canceled?
Both platforms have policies for canceled events. Typically, you will receive a refund or credit, depending on the platform’s policy and the specific event. Both platforms will usually handle the refund process. Understanding the policy in advance is essential. Contact customer support for assistance. Carefully review the terms and conditions regarding canceled events to understand your rights and options.
Final Verdict
Both StubHub and Ticketmaster offer unique advantages for ticket sellers. StubHub boasts a user-friendly interface, potentially quicker payouts, and a strong secondary market presence. Ticketmaster benefits from its direct connection to primary ticketing and a large audience, but their fee structures can be complex. Choosing the right platform depends on individual priorities, such as ease of use, fee transparency, and desired market reach. Consider fees, payout timelines, and market visibility.
Winner: StubHub