Table of Contents
- Why Labubu is the Must-Have Collectible of 2026
- Why Taiwan Collectors are Sourcing from the US
- 1. Monitor Official US Retailers and Specialty Shops
- 2. Use a Reliable Package Forwarder
- 3. Estimate Your Shipping Costs in Advance
- 4. Verify Restricted and Prohibited Goods
- 5. Understand Taiwan Import Duties and Taxes
- 6. Leverage Prime Membership for Faster Shipping
- 7. Ensure Safe Handling for Rare Figures
Why Labubu is the Must-Have Collectible of 2026
As we move through January 2026, the obsession with Labubu—the mischievous monster created by Kasing Lung—has reached an all-time high in Taiwan. What started as a niche designer toy trend has exploded into a mainstream cultural phenomenon. Whether it is the classic plush pendants or the limited-edition 2026 vinyl figures, Labubu has become a status symbol for collectors in Taipei and beyond.
The hype is fueled by social media visibility and high-profile collaborations. However, the high demand in Asia often leads to instant sell-outs and inflated secondary market prices. This is why many savvy enthusiasts are turning their eyes toward the West to complete their collections.
You might also like: Read more: Why 75% of Labubu Collectors in Taiwan are Now Sourcing from US Retailers
Why Taiwan Collectors are Sourcing from the US
While Labubu is an Asian creation, the US market often receives different stock allocations and exclusive colorways that aren't available in Taiwan. US retailers like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and various designer toy boutiques often have inventory when local shops are bone-dry. By shopping in the US, you can often find retail prices that are significantly lower than the resale prices found on local Taiwanese platforms.
1. Monitor Official US Retailers and Specialty Shops
To score the rarest drops, you need to be fast. Bookmark major US-based designer toy sites. Many of these stores do not ship directly to Taiwan, or if they do, the international shipping rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where a strategic approach to logistics becomes necessary.
2. Use a Reliable Package Forwarder
Since many US retailers only ship within the 50 states, you need a US-based address to receive your goods. Using a comGateway account provides you with a tax-free US shipping address, allowing you to shop just like a local. As a reliable package forwarder, they bridge the gap between US storefronts and your home in Taiwan.
If you are new to this process, check out this how it works step-by-step guide to see how easy it is to start your US shopping journey.
3. Estimate Your Shipping Costs in Advance
Before you commit to a major haul, it is important to budget for the journey home. Shipping costs are typically based on weight or volumetric weight. To avoid surprises, use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost for your Labubu haul. Knowing these figures ahead of time helps you decide if a particular deal is truly a bargain.
4. Verify Restricted and Prohibited Goods
While vinyl toys are generally safe to ship, some collector sets include liquids, batteries, or specialized cleaning agents that might be restricted. Always review the list of prohibited items to ensure your restricted goods don't get stuck at the warehouse. If you are unsure, the FAQ or help center can provide clarity on specific item categories.
5. Understand Taiwan Import Duties and Taxes
When your Labubu figures arrive in Taiwan, they are subject to local customs regulations. Taiwan has specific thresholds for de minimis values, and exceeding these can result in import duties or GST/VAT charges. It is essential to stay updated on customs tax policies to ensure you aren't hit with unexpected fees upon delivery.
Check our guide on: Read more: The Cheat Sheet for Scoring Rare Labubu Figures from the US and Shipping to Taiwan
6. Leverage Prime Membership for Faster Shipping
For the serious collector who plans on making multiple purchases throughout 2026, a membership plan is a game-changer. By looking into Prime membership benefits, you can access discounted shipping rates, longer storage periods, and priority processing. This is particularly useful during high-traffic release months when everyone is trying to get their hands on the latest Labubu drop.
7. Ensure Safe Handling for Rare Figures
The mint condition of the box is often just as important as the figure itself for collectors. When shipping internationally, ensure you choose a forwarder that offers repacking or extra protection services. You want your package to be handled with care to maintain its resale value.
Check our guide on: Read more: Read This Before You Buy Labubu Figures from the US to Ensure They Reach Taiwan Safely
Conclusion
Collecting Labubu in 2026 doesn't have to be a struggle of refreshing local pages and hoping for the best. By expanding your horizons to US retailers and using a trusted partner like comGateway, you can secure the rarest pieces for your collection with ease. If you have more questions about the process, don't hesitate to reach out to their support team for assistance.
