Raffle tickets remain one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to fundraise, promote events, and engage communities. Whether you’re organizing a charity fundraiser, a school raffle, or a company giveaway, ordering custom raffle tickets may seem straightforward but there are several pitfalls that can lead to wasted time, extra expenses, or even a failed campaign.
If you’re planning to buy raffle tickets online, understanding these common mistakes can save you significant stress. In this article, we’ll explore the top five mistakes to avoid when ordering raffle tickets, so your event runs smoothly from start to finish.
Mistake #1: Not Choosing the Right Type or Size of Ticket
One of the biggest errors people make is not selecting the right kind of ticket for their event. Raffle tickets come in many formats from small stubs with tear-offs to large, personalized raffle tickets with barcodes and QR codes.
Why it Matters:
Choosing the wrong ticket type can lead to poor user experience, confusion at the event, or worse, non-compliance with local fundraising laws. For example:
- General admission raffles often work best with standard 5.5″ x 2″ tickets.
- Events with prizes or multiple draws may require custom raffle tickets with numbered stubs.
- Larger events may need digital or barcode-printed tickets for tracking and validation.
Solution:
Start with a clear understanding of your event needs. Use reliable raffle ticket templates that match your goals. If you’re unsure where to begin, Raffles for Less offers helpful guidance and a variety of ticket types that suit different event formats. Visit our Order Page to explore your options.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Design and Branding Elements
Design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about credibility. Poorly designed tickets can make your raffle look amateurish, which may reduce trust and sales.
Common Design Flaws:
- Unreadable fonts or cluttered layouts
- Missing essential info (event name, date, draw rules)
- No branding or logo
- Bad color combinations that don’t print well
If you’re using generic or outdated raffle ticket templates, you’re missing a chance to stand out.
Why It Hurts:
Tickets with weak design fail to communicate value. People may wonder if your raffle is legitimate, especially when prizes or money are involved.
Solution:
Opt for personalized raffle tickets with your logo, cause, or sponsor details. Use clean, easy-to-read fonts and make sure the layout flows logically. If you’re working with a professional raffle ticket printing service, ask for a preview or proof before finalizing the print.
For organizations that value efficiency and quality, Raffles for Less provides custom templates with built-in best practices. Learn more about customization options on our About Us page.
Mistake #3: Choosing Price Over Quality
We all want to save money. But focusing solely on getting cheap raffle tickets can lead to a disappointing outcome. Low-cost options often compromise on material quality, printing clarity, or durability.
The Risks of Going Too Cheap:
- Tickets that tear easily or smudge
- Poor perforation, making stub separation difficult
- Ink that fades or smears in humid weather
- Low-quality paper that feels unprofessional
Why This Matters:
Your tickets are not just entry passes, they’re also marketing tools. Attendees may keep them as souvenirs, and sponsors will judge the quality of your materials.
Solution:
Rather than just searching for cheap raffle tickets, look for value. Choose a provider that offers competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. At Raffles for Less, we believe you shouldn’t have to compromise our Pricing Page breaks down options to suit every budget while ensuring professional results.
Mistake #4: Overlooking Legal Requirements
Many event organizers don’t realize that raffles are legally regulated. If you order tickets without understanding your local rules, you risk invalidating your fundraiser or facing fines.
Key Legal Considerations:
- Do you need a raffle permit?
- Can tickets be sold online in your region?
- Are there rules around prize values and disclosures?
- Does the law require printed terms or license numbers on the ticket?
Why This Is a Problem:
If your raffle tickets custom-designed for an event don’t meet legal standards, you may be forced to reprint or worse, cancel the event.
Solution:
Before you order custom raffle tickets, research your state or country’s raffle laws. A quick call to your local gaming authority or nonprofit regulator can prevent future headaches. A reputable raffle ticket printing service can also help you stay compliant by including the required fields on your ticket design.
Need guidance? Our team is happy to assist visit our Contact Us page for personalized support.
Mistake #5: Skipping the Proof and Approval Process
Time and again, organizers submit a design and assume all is well only to receive a batch of misprinted tickets with errors they missed.
Common Issues:
- Wrong event date
- Misspelled sponsor names
- Incorrect prize information
- Formatting issues after printing
When this happens, you either live with the mistake (and confuse buyers), or pay for a costly reprint.
Solution:
Always ask for a ticket proof before printing. Review it thoroughly then have a second pair of eyes look over it. You should verify:
- All text is correct and legible
- Barcodes (if used) scan properly
- Stubs are numbered or perforated correctly
- Raffle rules are included (if required)
At Raffles for Less, our streamlined process includes digital proofs for every order. We don’t print until you give the final green light. It’s part of our commitment to delivering accurate, professional results every time.
Bonus Tips for a Smooth Raffle Ticket Order
1. Use a Raffle Ticket Order Form
Creating or downloading a clear raffle ticket order form ensures that you collect all necessary details up front. Include fields for:
- Event name and date
- Number of tickets
- Prize descriptions
- Sponsor logos
- Required legal text
Want to keep it simple? You can find built-in forms directly on our Order Page to guide you through the process step by step.
2. Combine Print with Digital Options
Hybrid events are growing in popularity. Combine printed tickets with digital sales by offering online ticketing for remote supporters. If you’re wondering where to order raffle tickets that support both print and digital formats, Raffles for Less is your ideal partner.
We specialize in flexible solutions, from traditional tickets to digital-friendly designs you can promote across email and social media.
3. Plan Your Delivery Timeline
Many fundraisers forget to allow time for ticket printing and shipping. Last-minute orders can result in expensive express fees or missed opportunities.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Design and proofing: 1–2 business days
- Printing and numbering: 2–4 business days
- Shipping: 2–5 business days, depending on location
Order early, and track your delivery through your printing provider’s portal.
In Summary: Avoid the Mistakes, Maximize the Impact
Ordering raffle tickets might seem like a small task in the scope of your event, but the details matter. The quality of your tickets reflects the quality of your event, and by avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll ensure a smoother planning process, stronger sales, and greater participant trust.
Let’s recap:
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Choosing the wrong ticket type | Match size and layout to event needs |
| Poor ticket design | Use professional templates and branding |
| Going too cheap | Balance price with quality for the best ROI |
| Ignoring legal requirements | Research local laws and include necessary info |
| Skipping proof approval | Always review and double-check before printing |
Why Choose Raffles for Less?
With years of experience, competitive pricing, and top-rated service, Raffles for Less has helped thousands of organizers nationwide order custom raffle tickets with confidence. From design to delivery, we make the process simple and efficient.
Whether you’re looking to create custom raffle tickets for a one-time event or need ongoing support for an annual campaign, we’re here to help.
Explore our Home Page to learn more, or head over to our Pricing page to get started.
Ready to launch your next raffle with confidence?
Avoid the mistakes. Get professional tickets. And raise more.
