Wholesale Raffle Tickets: The Traditional Choice
Wholesale raffle tickets are the classic option most people recognize. They’re usually printed in bulk by a ticket supplier and customized with numbers, perforations, and sometimes branding.
Typical Costs:
- Printing: Wholesale raffles printing costs can range from $15–$50 per 1,000 tickets, depending on design, paper quality, and custom features.
- Shipping: Factor in $10–$20 for shipping (or more for rush orders).
- Design/Customization: Some printers charge extra for logos, unique colors, or event branding.
- Total: For 1,000 tickets, expect to pay $25–$70, with higher costs for premium designs.
Pros:
- Tangible product people can hold.
- Easy for in-person events where tickets are handed out on the spot.
- No tech knowledge required.
Cons:
- Requires upfront purchase and storage.
- Distribution limited to physical interactions.
- Risk of lost or damaged tickets.
Online Digital Tickets: The Modern Alternative
Digital raffle tickets are sold and distributed online through raffle platforms or custom-built systems. Buyers receive their “ticket” via email or within a mobile app.
Typical Costs:
- Platform Fees: Many platforms charge a percentage per transaction (usually 3%–5%) or a flat fee.
- Payment Processing: Standard credit card fees of about 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction apply.
- Customization: Some platforms offer branding and customization for a subscription fee, typically $10–$50/month.
- Total: For a raffle raising $2,000, fees might total $80–$150 depending on the platform.
Pros:
- No printing, shipping, or physical distribution needed.
- Easy for remote fundraising—people can buy tickets from anywhere.
- Instant digital record-keeping (reducing fraud or duplicate entries).
Cons:
- Dependence on technology and internet access.
- Requires participants to be comfortable with online payments.
- Platform fees can add up for small raffles.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Wholesale Printed Tickets | Online Digital Tickets |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Costs | Low ($25–$70 per 1,000) | None, but setup may require monthly fee |
| Transaction Fees | None | 3%–5% per ticket sale + payment fees |
| Distribution | In-person only | Global, online access |
| Customization | Additional printing charges | Often included in platforms |
| Scalability | Limited by print quantity | Unlimited, no physical limit |
Which Option is More Cost-Effective?
- For small, local raffles: Wholesale printed tickets are usually cheaper because costs are capped at the printing and shipping fee. If you only need 500–2,000 tickets, this is often the most budget-friendly choice.
- For larger fundraisers or online audiences: Digital tickets may save time and effort. Although fees add up, the convenience and wider reach can help raise more money overall.
Final Thoughts
The decision comes down to your audience and goals. If you’re running a local school raffle where tickets are handed out at events, wholesale printed tickets make sense. If your goal is to reach supporters across the country (or even worldwide), online digital raffles tickets provide greater flexibility and scalability despite the slightly higher costs.
No matter which route you choose, the key is balancing cost with convenience and reach to maximize your fundraising success.