What It Takes for Metallica to Tour

IVECO Capital Markets Day Conference In Turin — Source: Metallica Heavy Metal band Fiat Industrial Iveco truck for tour sits on display during the IVECO Capital Markets Day Conference on March 14, 2024 in Turin, Italy. (Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Metallica‘s 2025 M72 World Tour is a monumental logistical and financial endeavor. Here’s a look at what it takes for the band to tour:

Tour Scale and Logistics

The tour spans several continents, with over 95 shows across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, with an estimated attendance of over 3.2 million fans. Each performance requires meticulous planning, the transportation of stage equipment, sound, lights and other essential gear. For instance, the band’s setup involves 79 18-Wheeler trucks. 79!

RELATED STORY: Sparks Notes: ‘Texas Flood’

Financial Considerations

The financial cost for such a tour is substantial:

Venue Rental: $50,000 per show
Transportation: $75,000 per show
Staffing: $100,000 per show
Production: $150,000 per show
Merchandise Production and Shipping: $25,000 per show

Considering the scale of Metallica’s productions, actual costs are likely higher, with some estimates suggesting around $1 million per show.

RELATED STORY: Eagle Fest 2025

Operational Efficiency

To manage the rigorous schedule, Metallica employs a dual-stage setup: While one set is being dismantled, another is being assembled at the next venue. This efficient rotation ensures timely transitions between shows. Crew members often travel separately from the band, with logistics teams handling the setup and teardown processes.