The term identifies a method of ticket distribution where purchased tickets are held by the venue or ticketing provider for the customer to collect in person. This process typically necessitates presenting identification and potentially the order confirmation at a designated location, often a window or desk, shortly before the event commences. As an example, an individual who buys tickets online may opt for this delivery method and retrieve their admission passes at the venue’s customer service point on the day of the performance or game.
This arrangement provides a secure alternative to mail delivery, mitigating the risk of lost or stolen tickets. It also serves as a practical solution for last-minute purchases or when shipping is not feasible due to time constraints. Historically, this was a primary method of distribution before the advent of widespread online delivery and mobile ticketing options, offering a centralized and controlled system for ensuring ticket validity and preventing fraud.