Viagogo Ticket Cancellation: Everything You Need to Know
Viagogo doesn’t allow direct ticket cancellations, but you can relist your tickets for sale as an alternative. This article covers all aspects of Viagogo ticket cancellation, including policies, alternatives, and what to do in various scenarios.
What is Viagogo?
Viagogo is a popular online marketplace where people buy and sell tickets for events worldwide. It connects ticket sellers with buyers, offering a platform for transactions of concert, sports, and theater tickets.
Brief overview of the platform
Launched in 2006, Viagogo has grown into a global ticketing giant. It operates in numerous countries, providing a space for fans to access tickets to sold-out events or resell tickets they can’t use.
How Viagogo works for buyers and sellers
Buyers browse listings and purchase tickets directly through the platform. Sellers list their tickets, set prices, and receive payment when their tickets sell. Viagogo acts as the middleman, handling transactions and providing certain guarantees to both parties.
Viagogo’s Cancellation Policy
Viagogo’s stance on cancellations is firm: they typically don’t allow them. This policy can cause frustration for users who need to change their plans.
Understanding the no-cancellation stance
Viagogo’s no-cancellation policy stems from its role as a marketplace rather than a direct ticket seller. Once a purchase is made, Viagogo considers it a binding agreement between buyer and seller.
Exceptions to the rule
While rare, exceptions do exist. Event cancellations or significant changes to event details might lead to order cancellations. However, these are initiated by Viagogo, not the buyer or seller.
Why You Might Need to Cancel Viagogo Tickets
Life is unpredictable, and various situations might lead you to consider cancelling your Viagogo tickets.
Common reasons for cancellation
- Schedule conflicts
- Illness or emergencies
- Financial constraints
- Changes in travel plans
- Buying tickets by mistake
The importance of acting quickly
If you realize you can’t use your tickets, it’s crucial to act fast. The sooner you address the issue, the more options you’ll have, especially if you decide to relist your tickets for sale.
Steps to Cancel a Viagogo Ticket Order
While direct cancellation isn’t possible, you can take steps to address your situation.
Logging into your Viagogo account
Start by accessing your Viagogo account. You’ll need to log in to view your orders and explore your options.
Navigating to your orders
Once logged in, find the “My Tickets” or “Orders” section. This area displays all your current and past ticket purchases.
The relisting process as an alternative to cancellation
Since you can’t cancel, your main option is to relist your tickets for sale. Here’s how:
- Find your order in the “My Tickets” section
- Look for a “Sell Tickets” or “Relist” option
- Follow the prompts to create a new listing
- Set your price (consider the original price and current market value)
- Confirm the listing details and publish
Cancelling a Viagogo Sale as a Seller
Sellers face similar restrictions when it comes to cancellations, but there are steps you can take if you need to cancel a sale.
When and why sellers might need to cancel
Sellers might need to cancel if they no longer have the tickets, made a mistake in the listing, or can’t fulfill the order for any reason.
Step-by-step guide to cancelling a sale
- Go to “My Tickets” then “Sales”
- Find the sale you need to cancel
- Click “See actions” then “Make changes”
- Choose the option indicating you can’t provide the tickets
- Follow the prompts to complete the cancellation process
Remember, cancelling a sale may result in fees or penalties, so it should be a last resort.
Viagogo’s Refund Policy
Understanding Viagogo’s refund policy is crucial when dealing with cancellations or changes to your order.
Understanding credit vouchers
For cancelled events, Viagogo often issues credit vouchers instead of cash refunds. These vouchers are typically worth 120% of the original purchase price and are valid for future purchases on the platform.
How to request a cash refund
If you prefer a cash refund:
- Go to your Viagogo Wallet
- Find the credit voucher
- Click “Request cash refund”
- Follow the prompts to complete your request
Cash refunds usually process within 10 business days.
What Happens When an Event is Cancelled?
Event cancellations are one of the few situations where Viagogo initiates order cancellations.
Viagogo’s event cancellation policy
When an event is cancelled, Viagogo typically notifies ticket holders via email. They’ll provide information about refunds or credit vouchers at this time.
Refund process for cancelled events
For cancelled events, Viagogo usually offers:
- A credit voucher worth 120% of your purchase
- The option to request a cash refund instead
You’ll need to follow the instructions in their email to claim your refund or voucher.
Dealing with Postponed Events on Viagogo
Event postponements are handled differently from cancellations.
Viagogo’s policy on postponements
When an event is postponed, your tickets usually remain valid for the new date. Viagogo will inform you of the change and provide any necessary updates.
Your options as a ticket holder
If you can’t attend the new date, you may be able to relist your tickets for sale. In some cases, especially for significant date changes, Viagogo might offer refund options.
Alternatives to Cancelling Viagogo Tickets
If you can’t use your tickets and direct cancellation isn’t an option, consider these alternatives.
Reselling your tickets on Viagogo
Reselling is often the best option. You can create a new listing and potentially recoup some or all of your costs.
Transferring tickets to friends or family
Some tickets allow transfer to other people. Check your ticket details to see if this is possible for your purchase.
Avoiding the Need for Cancellation
Prevention is better than cure. Here are some tips to reduce the likelihood of needing to cancel.
Tips for careful ticket purchasing
- Double-check event details before buying
- Ensure you’re available on the event date
- Consider travel and accommodation needs
- Review Viagogo’s terms and conditions
Understanding Viagogo’s terms before buying
Familiarize yourself with Viagogo’s policies before making a purchase. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions and avoid potential issues.
Common Issues with Viagogo Ticket Cancellations
Users often encounter specific problems when trying to cancel or modify their Viagogo orders.
Dealing with non-refundable fees
Viagogo charges various fees on ticket purchases. These fees are typically non-refundable, even if you manage to cancel or resell your tickets.
What to do if your cancellation request is denied
If Viagogo denies your cancellation request:
- Review their explanation carefully
- Check if you qualify for any exceptions
- Consider relisting your tickets as an alternative
- Contact customer support for clarification if needed
Viagogo’s Buyer and Seller Protection Policies
Viagogo offers certain protections to both buyers and sellers using their platform.
Understanding the Viagogo guarantee
Viagogo’s guarantee ensures that buyers receive valid tickets in time for the event. For sellers, it guarantees payment for successful sales.
How protection policies relate to cancellations
While these policies don’t directly allow for cancellations, they can provide recourse if something goes wrong with your order or sale.
Legal Aspects of Viagogo Ticket Cancellations
It’s important to understand your rights and Viagogo’s obligations under consumer protection laws.
Consumer rights and Viagogo’s terms
Consumer rights vary by country. In some regions, Viagogo’s no-cancellation policy might conflict with local consumer protection laws.
Potential disputes and resolutions
If you believe Viagogo has violated your consumer rights:
- Contact Viagogo’s customer support first
- If unresolved, consider contacting local consumer protection agencies
- As a last resort, legal action might be an option, but consider the costs and potential outcomes carefully
Comparing Viagogo’s Cancellation Policy to Other Platforms
Viagogo’s policies differ from those of many other ticket sellers and marketplaces.
How Viagogo differs from traditional ticket sellers
Traditional ticket sellers often allow cancellations within a certain timeframe. Viagogo’s marketplace model leads to stricter policies.
Cancellation policies of major competitors
Other resale platforms like StubHub or SeatGeek may offer more flexible cancellation options. However, they often charge higher fees to compensate for this flexibility.
Tips for Successful Ticket Reselling on Viagogo
If you need to resell your tickets, these tips can help maximize your chances of a successful sale.
Setting the right price
Research current market prices for similar tickets. Price competitively to attract buyers, but remember to account for Viagogo’s fees.
Creating an attractive listing
- Use clear, accurate descriptions
- Highlight any special features of your tickets (e.g., good views, aisle seats)
- Be honest about any potential drawbacks
Navigating Viagogo Customer Support for Cancellations
Dealing with customer support can be crucial when facing issues with your Viagogo order.
How to contact Viagogo
Viagogo offers support through:
- Phone support
- FAQ section on their website
What to expect when dealing with support
Be prepared with your order details and a clear explanation of your issue. Remember, support staff are bound by Viagogo’s policies, so they may not always be able to offer the solution you want.
Future of Ticket Cancellations on Viagogo
The ticketing industry is evolving, and Viagogo’s policies may change over time.
Potential policy changes
Consumer pressure and regulatory scrutiny could lead to more flexible cancellation policies in the future.
Industry trends affecting cancellation policies
The COVID-19 pandemic has already led to some changes in cancellation policies across the industry. This trend may continue as the event landscape evolves.
Conclusion: Mastering Viagogo Ticket Cancellations
Navigating Viagogo’s ticket cancellation process can be challenging, but understanding the platform’s policies and your options is key. While direct cancellations are rarely possible, alternatives like relisting can help you address changes in your plans. Always read the terms carefully before purchasing, and act quickly if you need to change your arrangements. By following the tips and information in this guide, you’ll be better equipped to handle any issues that arise with your Viagogo tickets.
Remember, the ticketing landscape is always changing, so stay informed about Viagogo’s latest policies and industry trends. With the right knowledge and approach, you can navigate the world of online ticket marketplaces with confidence.