On the internet ticket resale site, Viagogo is among the most visited sites to purchase and exchange tickets to concerts, sports games, plays, and other performances. However, critics and users have questioned its credibility and dependability. It is important that you learn how the site operates, its advantages and disadvantages, and steps to make sure that you receive a safe transaction before you use Viagogo. This report offers a detailed explanation of Viagogo so that you can make a well-informed decision.
What is Viagogo?
Viagogo is a global ticket exchange and resale website bringing together buyers and sellers of event tickets. Headquartered in Switzerland and established in 2006, the company deals with more than 60 nations and provides tickets for a very wide array of events ranging from concerts and festivals through to sport and play. Unlike primary ticket sellers, Viagogo is a second-hand market where people sell surplus tickets.
The website claims to have millions of tickets available for purchase at any moment, providing entry to sold-out events elsewhere. While this is a wonderful last-minute alternative, it has problems with ticket authenticity and pricing.
How Does Viagogo Work?
Viagogo is easy to use:
- Searching for Tickets: The purchaser can look for tickets to his preferred event through the utilization of Viagogo’s website or mobile app.
- Browse Listings: The site presents several listings of tickets available, and buyers select based on seat location, price, and seller history.
- Purchase Tickets: Buyers then go to checkout, entering payment and contact information after selecting tickets.
- Receive Tickets: Tickets are sent electronically or by standard mail, depending on seller preference.
Viagogo levies a service charge from the buyers on top of the ticket price, and it makes the ticket very expensive. Sellers also have to pay a commission on each sale.
Is Viagogo Legit?
Whether or not Viagogo is legit hinges on several things:
- Buyer Guarantees: There is a guarantee from Viagogo that the buyer will be provided valid tickets before visiting their event. If the ticket is invalid, the website offers an exchange or refund.
- Secure Transactions: The website uses encryption and secure payments to protect users’ financial information.
- Mixed Reviews: Some users give positive reviews, while other users have experienced problems such as very high ticket prices, surprise fees, and delayed delivery of tickets.
Pros of Using Viagogo
- Access to Sold-Out Events: Viagogo will most likely have tickets for sold-out events that are no longer on sale directly from original sellers.
- Wider Choice: The site boasts a very wide range of tickets in categories and venues.
- International Market: Conducting business outside one’s country means that Viagogo enjoys an international market of customers.
- Ease: User-friendliness of the site means it is easy to find and buy tickets.
Cons of Using Viagogo
- Too High Fees: Viagogo is also notorious for charging too much service fees, as high as 25% and even more than the price of the ticket.
- Hidden Fees: Hidden fees are only ever located at the last stage of checkout.
- Risk of False Tickets: Being a second market, Viagogo does not know how tickets sold on its site are original or genuine.
- Customer Issues: Problems are primarily regarding tardy delivery of tickets, inadequate customer service, and claiming refunds.
Safe Use of Viagogo Tips
- Know About the Event: Verify event details on genuine sources so that the tickets are for the date, time, and venue.
- Check Seller Ratings: Opt for sellers with high ratings and a record of successful deal fulfilment.
- Be Price-Smart: Steer clear of highly discounted listings that could be implying fake tickets.
- Read Terms and Conditions: Read terms and conditions, like refund and cancellation plans carefully.
- Use Secure Payments: Pay by credit cards or other safe payment methods, and steer clear of direct bank transfers.
Alternative to Viagogo
Unless you are uncertain to use Viagogo, here are alternative options:
- StubHub: Another giant ticket resale site with the same business model.
- Ticketmaster Resale: Ticketmaster-approved resale tickets to events on Ticketmaster.
- SeatGeek: Aggregates tickets from a wide variety of sellers and has an open pricing strategy.
- Official Box Offices: Buy directly from the event’s official box office or approved resellers where available.
Conclusion
Viagogo is a legitimate website offering a full range of event tickets but with some risks and drawbacks. Although some people have a hassle-free experience, others experience problems such as high fees, additional fees, and doubts about the authenticity of tickets. Being cautious and alert, you can reduce potential risks and get the best out of Viagogo.
Finally, it is up to you whether Viagogo is suitable for you or not, depending on your priorities, including convenience, cost, and risk-taking. If you still choose to use the platform, remember to follow the advice in this guide to ensure a safe and satisfactory transaction.