Selling Tickets on SeatGeek vs StubHub: A Comprehensive Guide

Selling tickets online has become a popular way for people to get rid of unwanted tickets or make a profit. Among the most popular platforms for reselling tickets are SeatGeek and StubHub. Both platforms offer user-friendly interfaces, security, and reach to a wide audience. However, there are distinct differences between the two when it comes to selling tickets. This blog post will compare SeatGeek and StubHub, offering a comprehensive guide on how to sell tickets on each platform and which one may be better for your needs.

Overview of SeatGeek and StubHub

Before diving into the specifics of selling tickets, it’s important to understand the basic functions of each platform.

SeatGeek:

SeatGeek started primarily as a ticket search engine but has since expanded into the ticket resale market. It aggregates tickets from various platforms and provides users with a unique "deal score" to help them determine if a ticket is priced fairly. SeatGeek also offers a direct marketplace for ticket reselling.

StubHub:

StubHub, owned by eBay, is one of the largest and most well-known platforms for buying and selling tickets. StubHub provides a simple and direct way to resell tickets for a wide range of events, from concerts to sports to theater. It has a large user base, which can make selling tickets easier.

How to Sell Tickets on SeatGeek

Selling tickets on SeatGeek is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide: How to Sell Tickets on SeatGeek

Step 1: Create an Account

Before you can sell tickets, you need to create an account on SeatGeek. This is a quick process that requires basic information such as your name, email, and payment details.

Step 2: Search for Your Event

To list your tickets for sale, first, search for the event you want to sell tickets for. SeatGeek will show you the event page, and from there, you can click on "Sell Tickets."

Step 3: Set Your Price

You’ll be asked to set a price for your tickets. SeatGeek offers a helpful "Deal Score" system that will show you how competitive your price is compared to others. Keep in mind that SeatGeek takes a service fee, so be sure to factor that into your price.

Step 4: List Your Tickets

Once you’ve set your price, you can list your tickets on SeatGeek. The platform will handle the transaction, and you will be notified when your tickets sell.

Step 5: Payment

After your tickets sell, SeatGeek will send you payment via direct deposit or check, usually within 1-3 business days.

How to Sell Tickets on StubHub

Selling tickets on StubHub is just as easy. Here’s a breakdown of the steps: How to Sell Tickets on StubHub

Step 1: Create an Account

Just like SeatGeek, you need to have a StubHub account. You can create one by entering basic information, including payment details.

Step 2: Search for Your Event

Search for the event you want to sell tickets for, and click on "Sell." StubHub will direct you to the ticket listing page.

Step 3: List Your Tickets

Enter your ticket details (event name, seating, ticket type, etc.), and StubHub will automatically suggest a price based on similar tickets. You can either accept the suggested price or set your own.

Step 4: Confirm Listing

Once you’ve confirmed your listing, your tickets will appear on the marketplace. StubHub offers a detailed "Price Guidance" system that helps you set competitive prices based on demand and market trends.

Step 5: Payment

Once your tickets sell, StubHub will send you payment, typically via PayPal or direct deposit, within 5-7 business days. If the buyer chooses to use a paper ticket, you’ll be responsible for mailing the tickets within a specified time frame.

Fee Structures: SeatGeek vs StubHub

One of the key differences between selling tickets on SeatGeek vs StubHub is the fee structure. Let’s compare both platforms:

SeatGeek Fees:

• Service Fee: SeatGeek charges a service fee when you sell tickets. This fee can range between 10% and 20%, depending on the ticket price and the specific event.

• Listing Fee: There is no listing fee on SeatGeek. You only pay when your tickets sell.

• Payment Processing Fees: SeatGeek charges a small payment processing fee when you receive your payout.

StubHub Fees:

• Service Fee: StubHub charges a seller fee, typically between 10% and 15% of the sale price. The fee is deducted from the final sale price.

• Listing Fee: There is no listing fee on StubHub, just like SeatGeek.

• Payment Processing Fees: StubHub does not charge additional payment processing fees. However, sellers should be aware that the payout methods (PayPal, direct deposit, etc.) may have their own associated fees.

Payment Methods: SeatGeek vs StubHub

Both SeatGeek and StubHub offer various methods for payment, but they differ slightly:

• SeatGeek Payment Methods:

  • Direct deposit (preferred method)

  • Check

  • Payments are typically processed within 1-3 business days.

• StubHub Payment Methods:

  • PayPal

  • Direct deposit

  • StubHub payments typically take 5-7 business days to process.

Security and Buyer Protection:

Both platforms offer robust security features and buyer protection, but they have different approaches:

• SeatGeek:

  • SeatGeek offers a "Buyer Guarantee" which protects the buyer if the tickets don’t work as expected. If something goes wrong, SeatGeek will attempt to resolve the issue, including offering a full refund.

  • As a seller, you are also protected by SeatGeek’s policies and will be notified if anything goes wrong with your ticket transaction.

• StubHub:

  • StubHub offers a comprehensive "FanProtect Guarantee," which ensures that the buyer gets legitimate tickets or a full refund if something goes wrong.

  • StubHub also protects sellers by allowing for the safe transfer of tickets and offering support for any disputes.

Which Platform is Better for Selling Tickets?

Now that we’ve covered the specifics of selling tickets on SeatGeek and StubHub, let’s summarize the main points and see which platform might be better for you:

SeatGeek Advantages:

• Lower service fees (typically 10% to 15%).

• Fast payment processing (1-3 business days).

• Deal Score system to help set competitive prices.

• More favorable for sellers looking for simplicity and transparency.

StubHub Advantages:

• Larger user base, which can lead to faster sales.

• StubHub has a strong reputation, especially in the secondary ticketing market.

• More flexible payment options (PayPal and direct deposit).

• FanProtect Guarantee offers more extensive buyer protection.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose SeatGeek if: You’re looking for lower fees and a simpler process. It’s a great platform for first-time sellers who want to avoid complex pricing algorithms.

• Choose StubHub if: You want a platform with a large audience and excellent buyer protection, or if you prefer PayPal for faster payment.

Conclusion:

Both SeatGeek and StubHub provide solid platforms for selling tickets, but each has its pros and cons. SeatGeek is ideal for those looking for lower fees and a straightforward listing process, while StubHub excels for its large user base, buyer protection, and flexibility in payment options. Depending on your preferences, one platform may be more suited to your ticket-selling needs. Either way, you can rest assured that both platforms will help you get your tickets in front of a wide audience.