Why Labubu is the 2026 Must-Have Collectible
If you have walked through Shibuya or scrolled through your social media feed lately, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, serrated-tooth grin of Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung as part of 'The Monsters' series, this elf-like creature has transcended being a mere toy to become a full-blown cultural phenomenon. In 2026, the demand for these designer vinyl figures has reached a fever pitch, with enthusiasts in Japan constantly hunting for rare colorways and limited-edition releases.
While Pop Mart has a presence in Japan, the most coveted drops often happen in the United States first. US-exclusive collaborations and higher stock levels at North American retailers make the US market a goldmine for serious collectors. However, many of these stores do not offer direct international shipping. That is where savvy Japanese collectors are turning to a reliable package forwarder to bridge the gap.
The Challenge of Shopping from Japan
Japanese fans often face two major hurdles: geographical shipping restrictions and payment compatibility issues. Some US retailers only ship to domestic addresses, and others may not accept Japanese credit cards. This can be frustrating when a limited-edition Labubu drops and sells out in minutes. To overcome this, many use the BuyForMe service, which provides an assisted purchase option where the forwarder buys the item on your behalf.
7 Secrets to Scoring Labubu from the USA
1. Get a Tax-Free US Shipping Address
The first step to successful US shopping is having a local presence. By signing up with comGateway, you receive a US shipping address located in a sales-tax-free state. This immediately saves you around 7-10% on the purchase price of your Labubu figures, as you won't have to pay US domestic sales tax.
2. Master the Timing of US Drops
Keep a close eye on US-based retailers like Mindzai, Pop Mart US, and specialized designer toy boutiques. Because of the time difference, many drops happen late at night or early in the morning for those in Japan. You might also like to check our guide: Read more: Stop Believing You Can't Get the Latest Labubu Drops While Living in Japan.
3. Understand the Shipping Logistics
Once your Labubu arrives at your US address, you need to get it to Japan. If you are new to this, it is helpful to review a step-by-step guide on how it works. This ensures you know exactly when to consolidate your packages to save on costs.
4. Calculate Your Costs in Advance
Before you hit the 'buy' button, use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. This helps you avoid surprises and allows you to budget for your collection more effectively. Remember that international shipping rates can vary based on the weight and dimensions of the box, so checking the shipping fees beforehand is essential.
5. Leverage Membership Perks
If you plan on building a large collection throughout 2026, look into Prime membership benefits. Members often get discounted shipping rates and extended storage times, which is perfect if you are waiting for multiple Labubu blind boxes to arrive before shipping them all to Japan at once.
6. Know the Japan Import Rules
When importing to Japan, keep the 16,666 JPY rule in mind. Generally, if your total order value (including shipping) is under this amount, you may be exempt from consumption tax and customs duties. For more complex questions regarding prohibited items or specific declarations, the FAQ or help center is an excellent resource for support.
7. Don't Give Up on "Sold Out" Items
Sometimes, items that are sold out in Tokyo are still sitting on shelves in smaller US boutiques. Expanding your search beyond the major retailers can yield great results. You might also like to read: Read more: The Truth About Scoring Rare Labubu Drops: Why You Don’t Need to Be in the US to Own One.
Summary of Shipping Options to Japan
| Service Type | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Forwarding | Users with US-compatible cards | Low cost, tax-free address |
| BuyForMe | Restricted US stores | Hassle-free purchasing |
| Consolidated Shipping | Bulk collectors | Significant savings on international rates |
In 2026, being a Labubu collector in Japan doesn't mean you are limited to local stock. By utilizing a US address and understanding the logistics of international shipping, you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure your shelf is filled with the rarest monsters in the series. Happy hunting!
