Why Labubu is the Must-Have Collectible of 2026
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have likely seen the mischievous, serrated-tooth monster known as Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung and popularized by Pop Mart, this character has transcended the 'art toy' niche to become a global cultural phenomenon. As of January 2026, the craze shows no signs of slowing down, especially in Australia, where fans are constantly on the hunt for the latest blind boxes and limited-edition plush pendants.
5 Reasons the Labubu Hype is Sweeping Australia
While Labubu has been around for a few years, 2026 has seen a massive surge in demand. Here is why every collector in Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond is trying to get their hands on one:
- High-Profile Collaborations: Rare drops and fashion crossovers have made these figures a status symbol.
- The Blind Box Thrill: The excitement of not knowing which variant you will get keeps collectors coming back.
- Celebrity Endorsements: Global icons continue to feature Labubu on their bags and accessories, driving viral trends.
- Resale Value: Limited editions from 2025 and early 2026 are already fetching high prices on the secondary market.
- Customization: Fans love dressing up their Labubu plushies, making each figure feel personal and unique.
Read more: Why Labubu Figures are Taking Over Your Social Feed and How to Score Them from the US
Why Sourcing Labubu from the US is a Game Changer
For Australian collectors, finding specific Labubu series at local retailers can be a nightmare. Stock often sells out within minutes, or worse, local resellers inflate prices to double or triple the retail value. This is why many savvy 'toy hunters' are turning their attention to the United States.
US retailers and official Pop Mart channels in North America often receive larger stock allocations and exclusive releases that never make it to Australian shores. However, many of these US-based online stores do not offer direct shipping to Australia, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes essential.
Read more: Stop Believing You Can't Get Genuine Labubu Drops in Australia Without Paying Reseller Prices
The Secret to Getting US Labubu Drops Delivered to Australia
By using a US address provided by comGateway, you can shop at any US store just like a local. This allows you to access genuine drops at retail prices. If you are curious about how the process works from the moment you click 'buy' to the moment the package arrives at your door in Australia, check out this how it works step-by-step guide.
One of the biggest concerns for Australian shoppers is the cost of delivery. Before you commit to a purchase, you can use a shipping calculator to get an accurate estimate of what it will cost to bring your new Labubu home. This transparency ensures you aren't hit with unexpected fees at the end of the journey.
Read more: How Australian Toy Hunters are Finding Rare Labubu Drops in the US
4 Steps to Using a Package Forwarder for Your Labubu Haul
- Sign Up: Create your account to get a dedicated US shipping address.
- Shop US Stores: Purchase your Labubu figures from retailers like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, or even specialized eBay sellers in the States.
- Consolidate: If you are buying from multiple stores, wait for all your items to arrive at the US warehouse. This saves you a significant amount on international shipping rates.
- Ship to Australia: Once your items are ready, authorize the shipment to your Australian home address.
Understanding Australian Import Costs and Customs
When importing goods into Australia in 2026, it is important to remember that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) applies to most low-value imports. While the process is generally smooth, you should always ensure that the items you are buying are allowed. While vinyl toys are perfectly fine, always double-check the list of prohibited items if you are adding other accessories or lifestyle products to your shipment.
Maximize Your Savings on International Shipping
If you plan on becoming a frequent Labubu collector, you might want to look into Prime membership benefits. Members often get access to discounted shipping rates, storage extensions, and other perks that make international shopping much more affordable over the long run. With the 2026 release schedule looking packed with new Labubu variants, these savings can quickly add up.
Don't let geographical boundaries stop you from completing your collection. By shopping the US market and using a trusted forwarding service, you can stay ahead of the trends and secure the rarest Labubu figures without the Australian reseller headache.
