There are many different ticket companies that provide services for various events and transportation needs. Some of the major ticket companies include Ticketmaster, StubHub, Vivid Seats, SeatGeek, and more. These companies sell tickets for concerts, sports games, theater shows, and other live events. There are also ticket companies that focus on airline tickets, train tickets, and bus tickets. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to figure out which ticket company to use. This article will provide an overview of some of the top ticket companies, the services they offer, and key factors to consider when choosing a ticket provider.
Major Ticket Companies
Here is an overview of some of the major primary and secondary ticket marketplaces:
Ticketmaster
Ticketmaster is one of the largest primary ticket providers in the world. They sell tickets directly on behalf of concert venues, sports teams, and other event organizers. Ticketmaster has exclusive partnerships with many major venues and artists. They offer tickets to concerts, theater shows, sporting events, and more. Users can search for events and purchase tickets directly on Ticketmaster.com or via their mobile app. There is a dynamic pricing model where ticket prices adjust based on demand. Ticketmaster has faced criticism over its fees and market dominance.
StubHub
StubHub is one of the biggest secondary ticket marketplaces. Rather than selling tickets directly, StubHub allows users to buy and sell tickets from other fans. Sellers can list tickets they are unable to use, while buyers can search for tickets to purchase. StubHub offers a FanProtect Guarantee to protect both buyers and sellers. Fees are charged to both parties in transactions. StubHub has a wide selection of tickets to events in sports, concerts, theater, and other categories.
Vivid Seats
Vivid Seats is another large secondary ticket marketplace where individuals and small businesses can resell event tickets. They offer a 100% Buyer Guarantee to protect customers. Vivid Seats operates in a similar fashion to StubHub, with sellers listing tickets and buyers purchasing them. They have a loyalty program called Vivid Rewards to encourage repeat business. Vivid Seats often ranks among the top ticket resale sites.
SeatGeek
SeatGeek is a unique ticket search engine that aggregates listings from both primary and secondary sellers. Users can search for tickets and compare listings across multiple providers. A Deal Score rating helps identify the best ticket values. SeatGeek offers tools like interactive seat maps and view previews. They emphasize transparency in ticket fees across sellers. The company has both web and mobile apps.
Key Factors When Choosing a Ticket Company
Here are some key things to consider when selecting a ticket provider:
Event Type
The optimal ticket provider may vary based on the type of event you want to attend. For brand new events, primary sellers like Ticketmaster will have most inventory. For resale tickets, secondary marketplaces like StubHub offer more selection. Check multiple sites when evaluating your options.
Price
Ticket prices can vary widely across sellers, so comparison shopping is important. All-in costs include fees, so be sure to account for those when evaluating deals. Some ticket companies highlight lower fees as a selling point.
Buyer Protection
For high-demand tickets, verification features and buyer guarantees can provide protection from fraud and give peace of mind. Make sure to review policies carefully before making a purchase.
Rewards Programs
Many ticket companies offer rewards programs and other incentives for repeat customers. Consider sites where you can earn perks through initial sign-up bonuses, cash back, and other loyalty benefits.
Site/App Features
The usability of the ticket site or app can impact your overall experience. Evaluate factors like site design, mobile optimization, and tools like interactive seat maps. Make sure the purchase process flows smoothly.
Customer Service
Having access to support before, during, and after ticket purchase can be valuable. Check reviews and test out customer service channels like phone, chat, email, and social media.
Overview of Major Ticket Companies
Here is a table summarizing some of the major consumer ticket companies and their key features:
Company | Primary or Secondary | Key Events | Buyer Protection | Main Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ticketmaster | Primary | Concerts, sports, theater | Refunds on canceled events | Wide event selection, popular exclusive deals |
StubHub | Secondary | Broad selection | FanProtect Guarantee | Large secondary marketplace, loyalty rewards |
Vivid Seats | Secondary | Sports, concerts, theater | 100% Buyer Guarantee | Competitive pricing, rewards program |
SeatGeek | Both | Broad selection | SeatGeek Guarantee | Ticket search engine, Deal Score rating |
Airline and Transportation Ticket Companies
In addition to event tickets, there are specialized ticket companies that focus on travel tickets for flights, trains, buses, and more. Some top providers include:
Expedia
Expedia is one of the largest online travel agencies. Users can book airplane tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, cruises, activities, and more. Expedia offers a price match guarantee and 24/7 customer service. Flight searches aggregate options across airlines and show full pricing breakdowns. There are also mobile apps for on-the-go booking.
Priceline
Priceline is another major online travel site with a range of booking services. For flights, users can search travel dates across multiple airlines and get discounted unpublished fares through their Name Your Own Price tool. Priceline offers a Best Price Guarantee within 24 hours of booking. They also have rental cars, hotel deals, and vacation packages.
Kayak
Kayak is a travel search engine that scans websites to find flight deals and prices. Users can compare flights across hundreds of airlines and online travel agencies. Kayak doesn’t sell tickets directly but redirects users to partner sites. They offer price alerts, fare predictions, and airport info. The Kayak mobile app has features like barcode scanning and real-time flight tracking.
Amtrak
Amtrak operates intercity passenger train service in America. Tickets can be booked directly on Amtrak.com, their mobile app, at stations, or by phone. There are different fare types from Value to Flexible. Amtrak allows booking regional rail passes to save on multiple train trips. Services include high-speed Acela trains as well as long distance overnight routes across the country.
Greyhound
Greyhound is the largest provider of intercity bus transportation in North America. Tickets can be purchased at Greyhound terminals, on their website, or through the mobile app. Savings are available for roundtrip fares and advanced bookings. Greyhound buses serve over 3,800 destinations with amenities like free Wi-Fi and power outlets onboard.
Factors to Consider When Booking Travel Tickets
Here are some things to evaluate when selecting a ticket provider for flights, trains, buses, and other transportation:
Convenience of Booking
Some companies make it easy to search and book online or via mobile apps. Check reviews on the usability of sites/apps.
Available Routes
Compare the routes and schedules offered by transportation providers to find one that fits your trip.
Price
Shop across multiple sites to get the best fares. Consider any membership discounts or coupon codes that may help you save.
Amenities
For longer journeys, amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, legroom, dining, and on-board entertainment can be factors.
Cancellation Policies
Understand fees and refundability if you need to cancel or change travel plans.
Rewards Programs
Frequent traveler programs can give perks like free trips and priority boarding/seating.
Travel Insurance/Protection
Some companies offer insurance or guarantees for disrupted travel plans. Look into options for peace of mind.
Conclusion
There are many ticket companies to choose from when buying event, flight, train, and other transportation tickets. Major providers like Ticketmaster and Expedia are go-to options for primary ticket sales. Secondary marketplaces like StubHub and Vivid Seats offer resale ticket inventory. Comparison sites help find deals across multiple sellers. Key factors for choosing a ticket provider include buyer protection policies, fees, rewards programs, travel routes, and site/app convenience. Evaluate your specific event or trip details to determine the ideal ticket source. With an abundance of choices, consumers have flexibility in finding the perfect ticket.