If you have ever browsed Seatgeek for tickets, you may have noticed something surprising: tickets for an event often appear on the platform before they are officially available to the public. This raises a common question: how does Seatgeek have tickets before they go on sale? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can better understand how this works.
Basics of Ticket Sales
When a big concert, sports game, or theatre show is announced, tickets are typically released in stages. Here’s how it usually works:
- Presales
This is when a select group of people gets early access to tickets. These groups may include fan club members, people with certain credit cards, or subscribers to newsletters. Presale tickets often require a special code to unlock.
- General Sale
After presales are done, the tickets are officially released to the public. This is when anyone can buy tickets, and it’s usually the stage most people are familiar with.
- Resales (Secondary Market)
After tickets are sold, some people may choose to resell them. This could be because their plans changed, or they bought the tickets specifically to sell them for a profit. Resale tickets are listed on platforms like Seatgeek.
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Why Are Tickets on Seatgeek Before the General Sale?
There are a few reasons why you may see tickets on Seatgeek before they officially go on sale:
- Partnerships with Event Organizers
Seatgeek works directly with venues, event promoters, and sports teams. These partnerships allow Seatgeek to sell tickets as an official vendor. Sometimes, this means they can list tickets during the presale period or even before the presale starts.
For example, if a sports team uses Seatgeek as their official ticketing partner, tickets may be available on Seatgeek as soon as the event is announced.
- Access to Presale Tickets
When tickets are in the presale phase, people who have access (like fan club members or credit card holders) may buy them and then list them for resale on Seatgeek. This can happen quickly, making it seem like tickets are already available before the general sale.
- Ticket Brokers
Ticket brokers are individuals or companies who buy large quantities of tickets during presales. They then list these tickets on resale platforms like Seatgeek. These brokers are often experienced in navigating the ticketing system and use tools to purchase tickets as soon as they’re available.
- Speculative Listings
Sometimes, tickets are listed on Seatgeek before they’re even purchased. This is called a “speculative listing.” A seller may estimate how many tickets they’ll be able to buy and put them up for sale in advance. Once they purchase the tickets, they fulfil the orders. This practice is less common but does happen in the secondary market.
Is It Safe to Buy Tickets on Seatgeek?
Yes, buying tickets on Seatgeek is generally safe because the platform has measures to protect buyers. Here is how they ensure a secure experience:
- Verified Tickets: Seatgeek works to confirm the authenticity of tickets listed on their platform.
- Buyer Guarantee: If an event is cancelled and not rescheduled, Seatgeek offers a refund. They also guarantee that the tickets will be valid for entry.
However, it’s still important to be cautious when purchasing resale tickets. Resale prices can vary widely, and tickets may be more expensive than their original price.
How to Get Tickets Before They Sell Out
If you’re worried about missing out on tickets, here are some tips to help you secure your spot:
- Sign Up for Presale Access
Join fan clubs, subscribe to newsletters, or use credit cards that offer presale perks. These groups often get early access to tickets, and having a presale code can give you an advantage.
- Check for Presale Codes
Keep an eye out for presale codes that are shared by artists, venues, or promoters. Sometimes these codes are sent via email or posted on social media.
- Be Ready When Sales Start
For both presales and general sales, it’s a good idea to log in early and have your payment information ready. Ticket sales can move quickly, especially for popular events.
- Use Seatgeek’s Tools
Seatgeek offers features like “Deal Score,” which helps you find the best value for your money. Their interactive seating maps also make it easier to choose your ideal spot.
- Set a Budget
Tickets on the secondary market can be more expensive, so decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend. This can help you avoid overpaying in the excitement of getting a ticket.
Why the Secondary Market Exists
The secondary market, where tickets are resold, exists because of supply and demand. For popular events, tickets sell out quickly, and people who missed the initial sale turn to platforms like Seatgeek to find tickets.
This market can also benefit fans who bought tickets but can no longer attend the event. By reselling their tickets, they can recoup their money, and someone else gets the chance to go.
Pros and Cons of Buying Tickets Early on Seatgeek
Pros
- Early Access: You may secure a ticket for a sold-out event.
- Convenience: Seatgeek makes it easy to compare prices and seating options.
- Guarantees: The Buyer Guarantee protects you if something goes wrong.
Cons
- Higher Prices: Resale tickets are often more expensive than face value.
- Uncertainty: In rare cases, speculative listings may not be fulfilled.
Wrapping Up
Seatgeek can list tickets before the general sale because of its partnerships, access to presale tickets, and the nature of the secondary market. While this may seem surprising at first, it’s a normal part of the ticketing industry.
If you are planning to buy tickets, take advantage of presales, set a budget, and use Seatgeek’s tools to find the best options. And purchasing through a trusted platform like Seatgeek helps ensure that your tickets are authentic, and your experience is worry-free.
So next time you see tickets on Seatgeek before they officially go on sale, you will know why and how Seatgeek have tickets before they go on sale! Good Luck!
