Ticketmaster is one of the largest ticket providers in the world, selling tickets for concerts, sporting events, theater shows, and more. When you purchase tickets through Ticketmaster, there are a few different methods you may receive them.
Ticket Delivery Methods
The main ways Ticketmaster tickets can be delivered are:
- Mobile Delivery – Tickets are delivered to the Ticketmaster app on your smartphone.
- Mail – Printed tickets are mailed to you.
- Will Call – You pick up tickets at the venue’s box office.
- Transfer – You can transfer tickets to someone else electronically.
The delivery method you choose will depend on the event and your personal preference. Here is more detail on each option:
Mobile Delivery
Mobile delivery through the Ticketmaster app has become one of the most popular delivery methods in recent years. When you choose mobile delivery, you can access your tickets anytime through the app rather than waiting for printed tickets to arrive in the mail.
On the day of the event, you will simply open your Ticketmaster app and show your mobile ticket barcode to be scanned at the venue entrance. This provides a convenient, contactless experience without the need to print paper tickets.
Some key benefits of mobile delivery include:
- Convenience – Tickets are accessible instantly through the app.
- Security – Tickets are tied to your Ticketmaster account.
- Eco-Friendly – No printed tickets required.
- Contactless Entry – Mobile ticket scanning is touchless.
Mobile delivery requires you to download the latest version of the Ticketmaster app. You’ll need to make sure your ticket barcode is clearly visible on your mobile device screen for scanning. As long as you have an internet connection and sufficient battery life, accessing your tickets on the app is quick and easy.
Mail Delivery
Ticketmaster also gives the option to have printed tickets mailed to you. Standard mail delivery is included with all ticket purchases, though you may have the option to pay an additional fee for expedited shipping.
Here’s what you can expect with standard mail delivery of Ticketmaster tickets:
- Tickets are printed and mailed 2-4 weeks before the event via USPS First Class Mail.
- Packages include tracking information so you can monitor status.
- Standard delivery is free, but can take 5-10 business days in the U.S.
- International mail can take 2-3 weeks for delivery.
The advantage of mail delivery is having physical tickets you don’t need a smartphone to access. However, mailed tickets can be lost or stolen and need more time to receive.
Will Call Pick Up
Many major events will have a will call booth on-site for picking up tickets. Choosing will call means you or someone you designate can pick up ticket packages at the venue on the day of the event.
Some key tips for using Ticketmaster’s will call option:
- You’ll need the credit card used to make the purchase and a photo ID.
- If someone else is picking up your tickets, you’ll need to contact Ticketmaster in advance to authorize them.
- There is usually a will call booth near the venue’s main entrance.
- Hours of operation for will call vary by event.
- There may be long lines at popular events, so arrive early.
Will call can provide convenience on event day, but the pickup process isn’t as fast as mobile delivery. Make sure to account for extra time to get your tickets before the start of the event.
Ticket Transfers
For many Ticketmaster tickets, you have the option to electronically transfer them to someone else. This allows you to securely change ownership if you can no longer attend an event.
Here is how Ticketmaster’s transfer process works:
- Log into your Ticketmaster account and access your order.
- Choose the “Transfer Tickets” option.
- Enter the recipient’s name, email address and the ticket details.
- The recipient must accept the transfer to gain access to the tickets.
- There is usually a per-ticket fee charged for transfers.
As long as there is enough time before the event, transferring tickets can provide an easy option if your plans change. Make sure the recipient is able to access the tickets once transferred over.
Factors That Determine Delivery Method
When purchasing tickets on Ticketmaster, you may not always see all delivery methods available. Certain factors determine which options you’ll be given:
- Event Type – Larger concerts usually allow mobile and mail, while smaller events may be will call only.
- Venue Policies – Some venues prohibit print-at-home tickets and mobile delivery.
- Timing – Mail and transfers have cutoffs around 2 weeks before events.
- Ticket Source – Resale marketplace tickets generally must be mobile or will call.
If a delivery method you prefer is not displayed when selecting tickets, it is likely due to restrictions put in place by the event host or policies at the venue. Certain high-demand events will have limited delivery options to prevent fraudulent activity.
International Events
For events outside the United States, Ticketmaster has some different processes to be aware of:
- Mobile or print-at-home delivery is usually not available.
- Mail delivery has longer timeframes with most tickets arriving 1-2 weeks out.
- You may need to choose will call pickup at a local ticketing agency.
- Foreign transaction fees and international shipping costs often apply.
Make sure to pay close attention to delivery instructions when purchasing tickets to international events. Coordinating receipt of tickets across borders can be more complex. Contact Ticketmaster customer support with any specific questions on your order.
Ticketmaster Verified Resale
Ticketmaster operates an official resale marketplace for tickets called Ticketmaster Verified Resale. This functions separately from the standard Ticketmaster website with its own processes.
For Ticketmaster Verified Resale orders, mobile delivery and online transfer are typically the only options offered. Here are some key details on delivery:
- Mobile barcode access is delivered instantly after purchase.
- Print-at-home and mail options are not available.
- Online transfers can be initiated up until event start time.
- All resale tickets are verified as legitimate prior to listing.
Purchasing through Ticketmaster Verified Resale provides the protection of getting authentic tickets directly from other fans. Make sure to choose mobile delivery for fastest access to tickets and convenience on event day.
Troubleshooting Delivery Issues
Despite Ticketmaster’s best efforts, there are times when ticket delivery does not go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:
Didn’t Receive Tickets in Mail
If you don’t receive mailed tickets within 2 weeks of the event, contact Ticketmaster customer support. They can investigate the status and resend your tickets if needed. For faster delivery, you may be able to switch to mobile or will call pickup instead.
Can’t Access Mobile Tickets
Make sure you have the latest version of the Ticketmaster app installed. If mobile tickets are still not showing up, you may need to uninstall and reinstall the app. Check that your Ticketmaster account login is correct if you continue experiencing mobile ticket issues.
Changing Delivery Method
Request any delivery change at least 72 hours prior to event time. You can switch between mail, mobile and will call if the delivery timeline still allows it. There is typically an additional fee for changing delivery.
Event is Near or Sold Out
For events within 1-2 weeks or high-demand shows, Ticketmaster will restrict delivery changes. At a certain point mail, mobile and transfers will be cutoff as the only option is will call pickup. Sold out shows will no longer allow any ticket transfers.
If an event is approaching and your tickets are still not accessible, immediately contact Ticketmaster as your options become limited near event time.
Conclusion
Ticketmaster provides several delivery methods to fit different needs for accessing event tickets. Mobile ticketing provides a convenient digital option, while mailed tickets let you have physical copies. For last minute pickup, will call is available at the venue box office.
Carefully check all the details when selecting delivery method for your order. Take into account factors like location of the event, venue policies and timing. Study the guidance for international orders as well.
With mobile ticketing gaining popularity, more Ticketmaster tickets than ever are being accessed digitally. But classic mail delivery and will call pickup are still viable choices depending on the event. Choose the option that best suits your needs and provides peace of mind when ordering tickets.