Understanding Internet Handling Fees Charged by BookMyShow
BookMyShow, like many other online ticketing platforms, charges internet handling fees for several practical reasons. These fees not only cover operational costs and convenience for users but also reflect the overall market practices observed in the industry.
Operational Costs: Covering Necessary Expenses
The internet handling fees play a crucial role in covering the operational costs associated with maintaining and running the online platform. These expenses include server maintenance, payment processing, and customer support. These costs are significant and directly impact the overall functionality and reliability of BookMyShow's service.
Convenience: Buying Tickets from Home
One of the primary benefits of charging internet handling fees is the convenience it provides to users. By allowing ticket purchases from the comfort of one's home, the service eliminates the need for physical visits to ticket booths or box offices. This convenience is a pivotal selling point for online ticketing platforms, offering customers a hassle-free experience.
Processing Fees: Covering Payment Gateway Expenses
Payment gateways and transaction processing often incur fees, which are often passed on to consumers through handling charges. These fees are necessary to ensure that transactions are secure and that online payment systems can function efficiently. By charging internet handling fees, BookMyShow can offset these costs and ensure that the service remains reliable.
Technology Investment: Funding Development
Continuous improvements and updates to the website and mobile application require significant investment. Internet handling fees can contribute to the development and maintenance of these platforms, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and a smooth user experience.
Market Practice: A Common Industry Standard
Many ticketing services in the industry charge similar fees, making it a standard practice. Consumers have come to expect and accept these fees, as they are seen as an integral part of the online ticket purchasing experience. While these fees may be frustrating for some, they reflect a broader industry trend.
For example, a recent purchase of 4 tickets for a total of 103 rupees included a hefty 50% internet handling fee. This is particularly cumbersome given that 11.5% booking fees are also bundled together, often leading customers to question the transparency and fairness of these charges. Terms like "Internet handling fees" and "GST" can be misleading, and such practices might contribute to a situation where online piracy is increasing due to the unavailability of legitimate ticketing options.
Alternatives to BookMyShow
A frequently raised point is the availability of alternative platforms. Most theatres provide online booking services through their official websites, and using these platforms can potentially save customers from paying exorbitant handling fees. However, the lack of competition and the monopoly controlled by companies like BookMyShow can lead to unjustified charges and practices.
The analogy drawn between internet handling fees and parking fees collected by multiplexes is apt. Monopolistic practices can result in unfair charges, leading customers to seek alternatives. Once competition emerges, it is hoped that these practices will be reduced or eliminated, leading to a fairer and more transparent ticketing environment.
In conclusion, while internet handling fees are a necessary part of the online ticket purchasing experience, they are open to scrutiny and criticism. Transparency and fair pricing are key to ensuring customer satisfaction and maintaining trust in the industry.