Facebook Marketplace is a feature within Facebook that allows users to buy and sell items locally. Marketplace has grown in popularity as an easy way to buy and sell everything from furniture and cars to event tickets and services.
With Marketplace’s integration into Facebook, many users wonder if event and concert tickets can be listed and sold on Marketplace. The short answer is yes, tickets can be listed on Facebook Marketplace as long as they follow Facebook’s commerce policies.
Facebook’s policies on ticket sales
Facebook does allow users to buy and sell tickets on Marketplace, but there are some specific policies that apply to ticket sales:
- Tickets must be for events that are publicly announced. Listings for speculative tickets or private events are not allowed.
- Sellers must comply with all applicable laws and terms of services of the venue, promoter, league, or ticketing service.
- Tickets cannot be listed at a price significantly higher than face value. Scalping or price gouging is prohibited.
- Listings should include details like seat numbers, section, row, etc. Generic listings without details may be removed.
- Tickets should only be transferred securely through the Facebook checkout system, not offline.
As long as ticket listings follow these policies, they are generally allowed on Marketplace. However, Facebook may remove posts or disable accounts if they determine listings violate these terms.
Advantages of selling tickets on Facebook
There are a few key advantages that make Facebook Marketplace an appealing platform for buying and selling tickets:
- Large audience – With over 2 billion monthly active Facebook users, Marketplace provides access to a huge pool of potential buyers. You can target local followers or Facebook groups related to the event.
- Convenient sales platform – Marketplace has an integrated payment system through Facebook checkout. This provides buyer/seller protections and keeps all communications within Facebook.
- Mobile integration – Facebook’s mobile app makes it easy to list and find tickets on the go. Push notifications can alert you to interested buyers.
- Familiar community – Most Facebook users are already comfortable navigating Marketplace. There’s a level of trust when dealing with other users.
Utilizing an existing platform like Facebook removes a lot of the friction from the ticket selling process. Marketplace provides sellers with visibility, convenience, and security.
Listing tickets properly on Facebook
To successfully list event tickets on Facebook Marketplace, here are some tips to follow:
- Include key details – The event name, performer/team names, venue, date, section, row, and seat numbers should be clearly listed.
- Add photos – Post clear photos of the tickets that show the important details. Omit sensitive barcodes.
- Set a fair price – Don’t excessively inflate prices. Marketplace bans scalping practices.
- Describe condition – Note if the tickets are physical, mobile, or e-tickets. Mention if they come with extras like VIP perks.
- Use Facebook checkout – Have buyers pay through Marketplace’s payment system for protection.
- Meet in public – When delivering physical tickets, meet in a safe, busy area.
- Follow venue policies – Ensure ticket transfers adhere to any venue restrictions.
Providing all the right details upfront builds trust with buyers and results in faster sales. Following venue/event holder policies also keeps your listing compliant with Facebook’s terms.
Are there risks selling tickets on Facebook?
While selling tickets through Facebook Marketplace is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of:
- Scams – Some “buyers” may try to scam sellers by requesting tickets upfront then disappearing once received. Only meet in person or use Facebook checkout.
- Listings removed – Facebook may remove posts that violate policies. Ensure listings follow all terms.
- Losing tickets – Only transfer tickets through channels that allow refunds in case of issues. Avoid offline payment/delivery.
- Banned accounts – Not following Facebook’s terms could potentially lead to being banned from Marketplace or Facebook.
- Counterfeit tickets – There is a risk of unknowingly selling fake or void tickets. Verify legitimacy before listing.
While scams exist, sellers can avoid most risks by using common sense practices, like meeting in public and only accepting payments through Facebook. Legitimate buyers will be understanding of precautions against fraud or misuse.
Best practices for buyers and sellers
To have the safest experience buying and selling tickets on Facebook, here are some best practices to follow:
For sellers
- Verify tickets are valid and legitimate before listing
- Disclose all details like seat numbers, dates, etc.
- Only accept payments through Facebook’s checkout system
- Meet in a public place when delivering physical tickets
- Transfer mobile tickets securely through the venue’s app
- Don’t provide tickets until payment is received
For buyers
- Ask for photos and details to verify legitimacy
- Complete payment through Facebook for fraud protection
- Inspect physical tickets closely before handing over payment
- Meet sellers in a safe, public setting
- Save all communications in case issues arise
- Avoid dealing with sellers who insist on offline payments
Following these tips helps minimize the most common issues that crop up when exchanging tickets. Both buyers and sellers should watch for any signs of suspicious behavior from the other party.
Alternatives to consider
For those who want alternatives to buying and selling tickets through Facebook Marketplace, here are some other popular options:
Ticket resale sites
Websites like StubHub, Vivid Seats, and Ticketmaster allow users to resell event tickets through their platforms. These sites offer buyer/seller protections and guarantees not provided by Facebook transactions.
Ticket exchange groups
Joining Facebook groups or subreddits dedicated to ticket exchanges for specific teams, venues, or artists is another popular peer-to-peer option. However, these still pose risks if dealing with unknown users.
Official box offices
Purchasing tickets directly through the event venue’s box office or website is the most guaranteed way to get legitimate tickets. However, desired tickets may be sold out.
Friends and connections
Buying and selling tickets with people you know and trust sidesteps many of the risks of dealing with strangers online. However, it limits you to your existing network.
Weighing the pros and cons of these alternatives against Facebook Marketplace can help buyers and sellers decide what works best for their needs.
Common questions about Facebook ticket sales
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about buying and selling tickets on Facebook Marketplace:
Are ticket sales allowed on Facebook?
Yes, selling event and concert tickets is allowed on Facebook Marketplace as long as listings follow the platform’s commerce policies. Ticketing sales are not allowed on general Facebook buy/sell groups.
What if I’m scammed as a buyer or seller?
If you used Facebook’s checkout and payment system, you can file a complaint and dispute the charges. For other scams, report the issue to Facebook and warn others about the bad actor. Avoid direct bank transfers when possible.
Can I list tickets I won in a contest?
It depends. If the tickets have resale restrictions from the original provider, they cannot be resold on Facebook. Make sure any transfers are allowed before listing.
Do I have to pay taxes on ticket sales?
If you are regularly selling tickets for profit as a business, you may need to claim the income on your taxes. For occasional sales, taxes are less likely to apply but check your state laws.
What if my tickets sell before the event?
Only list tickets for sale if you can reliably transfer them before the event. Ensure your listing clearly states tickets will be transferred digitally or physically delivered.
Is there a fee for selling tickets?
Facebook does not charge a fee, but may collect a payment processing fee for purchases made through Checkout. Compare to other resale site fees.
The bottom line
Facebook Marketplace provides a convenient peer-to-peer platform for buying and selling event tickets. While some risks exist, following Facebook’s policies, using safe practices, and exercising common sense goes a long way in minimizing issues.
For those looking to offload extra tickets or score seats to sold out events, Marketplace is a viable option worth considering alongside other ticket exchanges and resale platforms.