What's the difference between the secondary market and primary ticket market?

Modified on Mon, 25 Aug at 1:16 PM

When you purchase through Tickets-Center, you’re buying in the secondary market. We work with licensed, verified third-party resellers to connect you with tickets that may be sold out elsewhere or offer better seating than what’s left from the original sale. Every order is covered by our Tickets-Center 100% Guarantee, ensuring your tickets are valid, arrive on time, and match (or exceed) the seats you chose.


The Primary Market

  • Tickets come directly from the event organizer, team, artist, or venue.

  • They’re sold through official ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster, AXS, or a venue box office.

  • Pricing is set at face value, plus any standard venue or service fees.

  • Sales typically start before the event sells out, with inventory limited to the initial release.


The Secondary Market

  • Tickets are resold by individuals or licensed licensed third-party resellers .

  • Listings appear on resale platforms, such as Tickets-Center.

  • Prices may be higher or lower than face value depending on demand.

  • Offers a wider range of seating, including premium and sold-out sections.

  • Tickets can be available right up to the event date.


Why Choose the Secondary Market?

The secondary market gives you options the primary sale may not — from last-minute availability to access to better seats. It’s a way to secure tickets even if the original source has sold out.


Still have questions?
Chat with our team—we’ll explain how the process works and help you feel confident before you purchase. 

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