How does StubHub operate for buying and selling tickets?

A dynamic collage of concert, sports, and theater ticket stubs with a digital interface overlay, symbolizing the seamless buying and selling process on StubHub.

Introduction to StubHub

StubHub is a popular online ticket marketplace that facilitates the buying and selling of tickets for various events, including concerts, sports games, theater performances, and more. Founded in 2000 and later acquired by eBay in 2007, StubHub has grown to become one of the largest secondary ticket marketplaces worldwide.

How Buying Works

Searching and Purchasing

Buyers can easily search for tickets by:

  • Entering the event name, artist, team, or venue in the search bar
  • Browsing events by category, location, or date
  • Using filters for price range, seat location, and quantity
  • Viewing interactive seating maps with available seats and prices

Once tickets are selected, buyers proceed through StubHub's secure checkout process using various payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal.

Ticket Delivery Methods

  • Electronic Tickets (e-tickets): Delivered via email or available for download
  • Mobile Tickets: Accessible through the StubHub app or mobile browser
  • Physical Tickets: Shipped to the buyer's address via courier services

Buyer Fees and Protection

  • Service fee (typically 10-25% of ticket price)
  • Delivery fee (varies by method)
  • Processing fee (per order)

StubHub's FanProtect Guarantee ensures:

  • Valid tickets for entry
  • Timely delivery
  • Full refund for canceled events
  • Comparable or better tickets if problems arise

How Selling Works

Listing Process

  1. Create a StubHub account
  2. Select the event for tickets
  3. Enter ticket details (section, row, seat numbers)
  4. Set pricing (using StubHub's pricing tools for guidance)
  5. Upload electronic tickets or arrange shipping

Managing Sales

Sellers can:

  • Adjust prices and update availability
  • Monitor sales activity
  • Access analytics and insights
  • Respond to buyer inquiries
  • Track delivery status

Seller Fees and Payment

  • Commission fee of 15-20% on sale price
  • Payment processing fees
  • Optional shipping costs
  • Payment via direct deposit or PayPal within 5-7 business days after the event

Technology and Security

StubHub employs robust security measures:

  • SSL encryption
  • Digital ticket verification
  • Fraud detection systems
  • Mobile ticket transfer capabilities
  • Integration with venue systems

Mobile Experience

The StubHub mobile app offers additional features:

  • Real-time price alerts
  • Virtual seat views
  • Mobile ticket delivery
  • Last-minute deals
  • Event discovery tools

International Operations

RegionCurrencyLanguage SupportLocal Events
North AmericaUSD/CADEnglish/FrenchExtensive
UK/EUGBP/EURMultipleGrowing
Asia-PacificVariousLimitedEmerging

For more information, visit StubHub's official website or explore their help center for detailed guides and support.

Related articles