Ticketmaster presales have become a crucial part of the ticket-buying experience for many fans. But just how many tickets are actually available during these presales? On average, Ticketmaster allocates 10-20% of total tickets for presales, though this can vary widely depending on the event.
In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of Ticketmaster presales, diving into the percentages, processes, and strategies that shape this important aspect of event ticketing.
Understanding Ticketmaster Presales
What is a Ticketmaster presale?
A Ticketmaster presale is a period before the general public sale when a limited number of tickets are made available to specific groups. These groups might include fan club members, credit card holders, or newsletter subscribers. Presales typically happen a few days to a week before the general sale.
Types of Ticketmaster presales
Ticketmaster offers several types of presales:
- Fan club presales
- Credit card presales
- Venue presales
- Radio station presales
- Newsletter presales
Each type targets a different group of potential buyers, often requiring a special code for access.
The Percentage of Presale Tickets on Ticketmaster
Average presale ticket allocation
While Ticketmaster doesn’t publicly disclose exact figures, industry insiders suggest that presale allocations typically range from 10% to 20% of total tickets. However, this can vary significantly based on several factors.
Factors affecting presale ticket percentages
Several elements influence the number of presale tickets available:
- Artist preferences
- Venue size
- Expected demand
- Promoter decisions
- Type of event
For instance, a highly anticipated concert might have a larger presale allocation than a smaller theater show.
How Ticketmaster Presales Work
The presale process
Ticketmaster presales follow a specific process:
- Announcement of presale dates
- Distribution of presale codes
- Opening of presale ticket queue
- Ticket selection and purchase
- Closing of presale
This process aims to give select fans early access to tickets before the general public sale.
Accessing presale codes
Obtaining presale codes can be tricky. Some common methods include:
- Joining artist fan clubs
- Subscribing to venue newsletters
- Owning specific credit cards
- Following artists on social media
- Listening to local radio stations
Getting these codes is often the key to unlocking presale access.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Ticketmaster Presales
Advantages for fans
Presales offer several benefits:
- Earlier access to tickets
- Potentially better seat selection
- Less competition than general sales
- Chance to avoid sellouts
For many fans, presales represent the best shot at scoring tickets to high-demand events.
Potential disadvantages
However, presales aren’t without drawbacks:
- Limited ticket selection
- Potentially higher prices
- Need for special codes or memberships
- Quick sellouts of presale allocations
Fans must weigh these pros and cons when deciding whether to pursue presale tickets.
Comparing Presale vs. General Sale Tickets
Availability differences
Presale tickets, while more limited in number, often include some of the best seats. General sales typically have more tickets but face higher demand and quicker sellouts for popular events.
Price comparisons
Prices can vary between presales and general sales. Sometimes, presale tickets are priced higher as a “premium” for early access. Other times, they’re the same as general sale prices. It’s essential to compare prices if you have access to both options.
Ticketmaster’s Presale Allocation Strategy
How Ticketmaster decides presale percentages
Ticketmaster’s allocation strategy involves several considerations:
- Artist and management requests
- Venue capacity and layout
- Historical data on ticket demand
- Marketing strategies
- Contractual obligations with partners
These factors combine to determine how many tickets end up in presales.
Venue and artist influence on presale allocations
Venues and artists often have significant say in presale allocations. Some artists prefer larger presales to reward fan club members, while others might opt for smaller presales to maximize general sale availability.
Tips for Securing Presale Tickets on Ticketmaster
Preparation strategies
To improve your chances of getting presale tickets:
- Create a Ticketmaster account in advance
- Save your payment information
- Join relevant fan clubs or mailing lists
- Set reminders for presale start times
- Research presale codes ahead of time
Being prepared can make all the difference in a competitive presale.
During the presale purchase
When the presale begins:
- Log in early and join the queue
- Have multiple devices ready if possible
- Be flexible with your seat preferences
- Don’t refresh the page unnecessarily
- Act quickly but carefully when selecting tickets
Remember, presale tickets can sell out fast, so efficiency is key.
The Impact of Presales on Ticket Availability
Effect on general sale inventory
Presales naturally reduce the number of tickets available during general sales. This can lead to faster sellouts and fewer options for those who don’t have presale access.
Implications for fans
The presale system creates two tiers of fans:
- Those with presale access who have better chances of getting tickets
- Those relying on general sales who may face more limited options
This division can be frustrating for fans unable to access presales.
Presale Tickets and the Secondary Market
Reselling presale tickets
Many presale tickets end up on secondary markets like StubHub or SeatGeek. This practice is controversial, as it can drive up prices for other fans.
Price dynamics in the resale market
Presale tickets on resale markets often command premium prices due to their scarcity and desirability. This can make attending events more expensive for fans who missed out on initial sales.
Controversies Surrounding Ticketmaster Presales
Criticism of the presale system
Ticketmaster’s presale system faces several critiques:
- Perceived unfairness to general public buyers
- Complexity of accessing multiple presales
- Rapid sellouts leading to fan frustration
- Concerns about tickets going directly to resellers
These issues have led to calls for greater transparency and fairness in ticket sales.
Ticketmaster’s response to concerns
Ticketmaster has addressed some concerns by:
- Implementing Verified Fan programs
- Improving bot detection systems
- Offering more transparent pricing information
- Partnering with artists on fan-friendly policies
However, many fans and industry watchers argue more changes are needed.
Future of Ticketmaster Presales
Potential changes to the presale system
The presale system may evolve in several ways:
- More personalized presale offers
- Integration with blockchain for improved security
- Dynamic pricing models for presales
- Expanded use of virtual queuing systems
- Greater collaboration with artists on fan-centric policies
These changes could reshape how fans access and purchase presale tickets.
Technological advancements in ticket sales
Emerging technologies may impact presales:
- AI-powered demand prediction
- Virtual reality venue previews
- Improved mobile ticketing experiences
- Enhanced fraud prevention measures
- Integration with social media platforms
These advancements could make the presale process more efficient and user-friendly.
Conclusion
Understanding what percentage of tickets are presale on Ticketmaster is crucial for fans looking to secure seats at popular events. While the exact numbers can vary, presales typically account for 10-20% of total tickets. This knowledge, combined with the strategies and insights shared in this guide, can help you navigate the complex world of ticket presales more effectively.
Remember, while presales offer advantages, they’re just one part of the ticket-buying process. Whether you’re a seasoned presale pro or new to the game, staying informed and prepared is key to getting the tickets you want. Happy ticket hunting!e presales to eligible customers.
