Buying tickets online through StubHub often comes with unexpected fees. With more people buying tickets online, it’s key to know about these fees. StubHub has been sued for its “drip pricing” model, which can add up to nearly 40% of the ticket price.
As a buyer, knowing about these fees helps you make better choices. Ticket fees aren’t just a StubHub problem. The Department of Justice has sued Live Nation and Ticketmaster for their high fees. This article will show you how to dodge StubHub fees and save money. We’ll talk about StubHub’s fee structure, other ticket marketplaces, and the best times to buy tickets.
StubHub Fee Structure Breakdown
When you buy tickets on StubHub, knowing the fees is key to avoid surprises. Fees like service fees and delivery charges can add up fast. Ticket Club says StubHub’s service fees can be 10% to 30% of the ticket price.
The fees include service charges for using the platform and delivery fees for shipping. There are also processing fees for payment handling. Here are some important points to remember:
- Service fees can range from 24% to 29% of the total ticket price.
- Delivery charges vary based on the shipping method.
- Processing fees are charged for payment handling, but the exact amount is not disclosed upfront.
Service Fees Explained
StubHub’s service fees are a big part of the ticket cost, averaging 23%. These fees change based on the ticket price. It’s important to include these fees when comparing prices.
Delivery Charges Overview
Delivery charges on StubHub are for shipping tickets. The cost depends on the shipping method. StubHub doesn’t show the exact delivery charge upfront, but it’s important to consider it when calculating the total ticket price.
Processing Fee Components
Processing fees on StubHub are for payment handling. The exact amount of these fees is not shown upfront. But, it’s important to include them when figuring out the total ticket price. Knowing about service fees, delivery charges, and processing fees helps you make better choices when buying tickets on StubHub.
| Fee Type | Fee Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Service Fees | 10% – 30% | Charged for the convenience of using the platform |
| Delivery Charges | Varying | Applied for shipping tickets |
| Processing Fees | Not disclosed | Charged for handling payments |
Direct Box Office Purchases
Buying tickets directly from the box office can save you money. CBS News says this method avoids extra charges. Many venues offer direct sales, and you can find better deals by buying in person or over the phone.
Some benefits of direct box office purchases include:
- Avoiding service fees charged by ticketing platforms
- Getting the best price for your tickets
- Ensuring you’re buying from a legitimate source
For example, Ticketmaster can charge a $13 service charge per ticket plus a $7 order fee. Buying directly from the box office can help you avoid these extra costs. Here’s a comparison of the costs:
| Ticket Price | Service Charge | Order Fee | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| $22 | $13 | $7 | $42 |
| $22 | $0 | $0 | $22 |
Choosing direct box office purchases, you can save a lot on ticket prices. This method also helps you avoid high fees from platforms like StubHub. So, the next time you’re looking to buy tickets, consider visiting the box office in person or giving them a call to make a direct purchase.
Season Ticket Holder Connections
Season ticket holders get many perks, like special ticket deals and discounts. Sports teams and theater venues have member programs. These offer benefits like early ticket access, discounts, and VIP experiences.
Local Sports Teams
Local sports teams sell season tickets for a unique fan experience. Fans get the best seats at great prices. They also enjoy early access to playoff and special event tickets.
Theater and Concert Venues
Theater and concert venues offer season tickets with many benefits. Season ticket holders get early ticket access and discounts. Some venues even offer VIP experiences and behind-the-scenes tours.
Special Member Programs
Season ticket holders can join special member programs. These offer benefits like early ticket access, discounts, and VIP experiences. Ticket Club says these programs can help save money on tickets.
Alternative Ticket Marketplaces
Many people buy tickets from places like Ticketmaster or StubHub. But these sites have high fees that can cost a lot. That’s why alternative ticket marketplaces are a better choice. They offer lower fees and better prices, as Ticket Club points out.
Platforms like Ticket Club, SeatGeek, and Razorgator are popular for these reasons. They have lower fees and more tickets to choose from. For example, TickPick has no fees for reselling tickets, which is cheaper than others. Vivus Reseller also has lower fees than Ticketmaster, making it a good choice for buyers.
Here are some key benefits of using alternative ticket marketplaces:
- Lower service fees: These sites charge less than traditional platforms, saving you money.
- Better ticket prices: You get more value for your money with these platforms.
- Wider selection: You can find tickets to sold-out events and more.
Exploring alternative ticket marketplaces can help you find great deals. Whether it’s a concert, sports game, or theater event, these sites are worth checking out. They offer lower fees and better prices, helping you avoid high costs and find the perfect tickets.
Face Value Ticket Sources
Many fans want to buy tickets at face value, without extra fees. CBS News says using venue pre-sales and fan club memberships can help. These methods can lead to getting the best tickets at a lower cost.
Face value ticket sources have many benefits. They help avoid service charges and let fans buy tickets early. Venue pre-sales offer early access, while fan club memberships provide exclusive face value ticket opportunities.
Benefits of Face Value Tickets
- Avoid added fees and service charges
- Get tickets before they go on sale to the general public
- Exclusive opportunities to buy tickets at face value through fan club memberships
Radio station promotions also offer face value tickets to winners. By using these sources, fans can enjoy great tickets without spending too much. The Federal Trade Commission’s efforts to reduce hidden fees make it easier to find face value tickets.
Smart Timing for Ticket Purchases
Timing is key when buying tickets. Ticket Club found that buying at the right time can save you money. For example, concert-goers spent 33% less than average on tickets bought on the day of the concert. They also spent 27% less the day before.
This shows the power of smart buying. The right timing can significantly lower the ticket price you pay.
To benefit from smart buying, watch ticket prices closely. Wait for the best moment to buy. Here are some tips to help you:
- Buy tickets on the day of the concert or the day before for the best deals.
- Purchase festival passes 13 days before the festival starts to save 30%.
- Avoid buying tickets three months or more before a show. They can cost nearly 14% more than average.
Being patient and strategic can lead to great deals. Whether it’s concert tickets or festival passes, smart buying and timing can save you money. This way, you can enjoy your event without breaking the bank.
| Event | Best Time to Buy | Average Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Concert | Day of the concert or the day before | 33% – 27% |
| Festival | 13 days before the festival start | 30% |
How to Avoid StubHub Fees Through Price Comparison
When you buy tickets online, it’s key to compare prices to dodge hidden fees. CBS News says comparing prices on different sites can help you skip StubHub fees. This way, you can get the best deals and avoid extra costs.
To avoid StubHub fees, do some research across different ticket sites. Look at prices on StubHub and other sites to find the cheapest option. Also, make sure to check the total cost, including all fees and charges.
Benefits of Price Comparison
- Avoid hidden fees: Comparing prices can help you dodge fees that can add up to 40% to the ticket cost.
- Find the best deals: By comparing, you can find great deals and avoid unnecessary charges.
- Make informed decisions: Analyzing the total cost helps you make smart choices about your ticket buys.
Using price comparison, research, and total cost analysis, you can dodge StubHub fees. This makes your online ticket buying more cost-effective.
| Platform | Price | Fees | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| StubHub | $100 | $40 | $140 |
| Alternative Platform | $90 | $10 | $100 |
The table shows how comparing prices and total costs can save you money and avoid hidden fees.
Local Ticket Broker Options
Many people buy tickets online, but these sites often have high fees. Local ticket brokers offer tickets at face value or lower, without extra costs. Ticket Club says using local brokers is a smart way to avoid extra fees.
Local ticket brokers and resellers are a good alternative to online sites. They have tickets not found elsewhere and offer personal service. Some benefits include:
- Access to tickets at face value or below
- No added fees or charges
- Personalized service and expert knowledge
- Support for local businesses and communities
Local brokers also offer a more trustworthy experience. They follow local rules and standards. This makes buying tickets safer and less likely to be a scam.
Overall, local ticket brokers are a smart choice for affordable ticket purchases. They offer tickets at face value or lower, while supporting local businesses.
| Benefits of Local Ticket Brokers | Description |
|---|---|
| Access to tickets at face value or below | Local ticket brokers can provide access to tickets at face value or below, without added fees or charges. |
| No added fees or charges | Local ticket brokers do not charge extra fees or commissions, making them a more cost-effective option. |
| Personalized service and expert knowledge | Local ticket brokers often have expert knowledge of the local ticket market, and can provide personalized service and advice. |
Social Media Ticket Groups
Social media ticket groups are a great way to find tickets at good prices. CBS News says these groups offer tickets from fans and resellers. This way, you can get the best deals without paying StubHub fees.
Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Reddit Ticket Exchange, and Twitter are popular for these groups. Facebook Marketplace stopped selling event tickets because of scams. But, Reddit Ticket Exchange and Twitter are safe places to buy and sell tickets.
Tips for Using Social Media Ticket Groups
- Be cautious of scams and fraudulent activities, even on safe platforms
- Research the seller and read reviews before buying
- Use Reddit Ticket Exchange and Twitter to find tickets at good prices
Using social media ticket groups can help you find great deals. Just be careful and do your research. Always check the seller’s reputation and read reviews before buying.
Credit Card Rewards Programs
Credit card rewards programs can help you earn cashback or rewards on ticket purchases. Using a rewards credit card can earn you points or cashback on your tickets. For instance, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card gives 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, and more.
Some cards offer more cashback in certain categories, like entertainment. The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express gives 6% cash back on U.S. streaming services. This can save you up to $8 on two $100 concert tickets with a 4% cashback card.
Here are some top credit cards for ticket purchase rewards: * Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card: 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, and more * Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions * Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 2x miles on all purchases, no rotating categories or spending limits * American Express Platinum Card: 5x points on air travel and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Welcome Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card | $95 | $300 cash bonus after spending $3,000 within three months |
| Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | $95 | 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions |
| Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card | $395 | 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 within three months |
| American Express Platinum Card | $695 | 80,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first six months |
Cash Payment Methods
Cash payment methods are safe and don’t cost extra, as CBS News reports. They let buyers skip online fees. You can use cash, in-person transactions, or money orders to buy tickets.
Choosing cash payment methods saves money. A study shows people spend more when prices seem low at first. With cash, buyers can get tickets cheaper.
The perks of cash payment methods include:
- Fee-free transactions
- Secure payment process
- No additional costs
It’s key to find trusted sellers who take cash. This way, buyers can buy tickets safely and save money. Cash payments, like in-person deals and money orders, help get tickets at a better price.
| Payment Method | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cash | Fee-free, secure, and no additional costs |
| In-person transactions | Secure, fee-free, and direct payment |
| Money orders | Secure, fee-free, and guaranteed payment |
Final Thoughts
Buying tickets can be tricky, but you can avoid StubHub fees with the right strategy. Learn about fee structures and look for other places to buy tickets. This way, you can save money and get great seats at your favorite events.
Always compare prices and use credit card rewards to save more. Cash payments can also help you save. Keep an eye on social media and local ticket brokers for even better deals.
With some research and patience, you can dodge StubHub fees and enjoy your favorite events. Follow these tips to become a smart ticket buyer. This way, you’ll always get the best value for your money.
Frequently Asked by Readers
How can I avoid StubHub fees?
To dodge StubHub fees, try buying tickets from the box office. You can also use season ticket holder connections or look at other ticket sites. Don’t forget about face value ticket sources.
What is the StubHub fee structure?
StubHub charges service fees, delivery charges, and processing fees. Knowing these can help you avoid extra costs when buying tickets.
How can I buy tickets directly from the box office?
Buying from the box office can save you money. Many venues sell tickets directly, either in person or by phone. This way, you get the best price.
How can season ticket holders save money on tickets?
Season ticket holders get exclusive deals. They have priority access and VIP experiences. Connecting with local teams and venues can help you save.
What are some alternative ticket marketplaces I can use to avoid StubHub fees?
Sites like Ticket Club offer lower fees and better prices. They are a cheaper option for buying tickets. Look for these alternatives to find great deals.
How can I access face value ticket sources?
Face value sources include venue pre-sales and fan club memberships. They let you buy tickets before the public sale, avoiding extra fees.
When is the best time to buy tickets to save money?
Timing is key when buying tickets. Watch prices and wait for the best time to buy. This way, you can save money and get good deals.
How can I compare prices to avoid StubHub fees?
Comparing prices and analyzing costs helps avoid StubHub fees. Research different platforms and understand the true cost of your tickets. This way, you can make smart choices and find the best deals.
What are the benefits of using local ticket brokers?
Local ticket brokers offer face value or below tickets without online fees. It’s important to find reputable brokers for the best deals.
How can social media ticket groups help me avoid StubHub fees?
Social media groups like Facebook Marketplace and Reddit Ticket Exchange connect you with fans and resellers. They often sell tickets at face value or below, avoiding StubHub fees.
How can credit card rewards programs save me money on ticket purchases?
Credit cards with rewards can earn you cashback or points on ticket buys. Redeeming these rewards for future purchases can save you money over time. Find the best rewards programs for your needs.
What are the benefits of using cash payment methods for ticket purchases?
Cash payments, like in-person transactions, are fee-free. They avoid online fees. Look for reputable sellers who accept cash.
