Why Labubu Continues to Dominate the Collectible Scene in 2026
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, serrated-tooth grin of Labubu. Part of 'The Monsters' collection created by artist Kasing Lung for Pop Mart, Labubu has transcended being a mere toy to become a global cultural phenomenon. Even as we move through 2026, the demand for these vinyl figures, plush charms, and limited-edition blind boxes remains at an all-time high.
While Labubu is popular across Asia, many of the most exclusive collaborations and high-stock restocks occur in the United States. For collectors in Malaysia, this often means facing 'out of stock' messages locally or paying exorbitant prices to resellers. However, shopping directly from US stores is a much more accessible strategy than most realize. By following a logical, step-by-step process, you can secure your favorite pieces directly from the source.
Step 1: Identify Where to Buy Labubu in the USA
The first step in your journey is knowing which US retailers are the most reliable. Because Labubu is a licensed Pop Mart character, the official Pop Mart US online store is your best bet for retail prices. However, due to the high demand, items sell out in seconds.
Other reputable US sources include:
- StockX and GOAT: Excellent for verified authentic secondary market purchases.
- eBay (US): A goldmine for rare, older editions from 'The Monsters' series, provided you check seller ratings.
- Specialty Designer Toy Boutiques: Stores based in New York or Los Angeles often carry exclusive stock not found in Southeast Asia.
Step 2: Overcoming Shipping Restrictions with a US Address
Many US-based retailers do not offer direct international shipping to Malaysia, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively expensive. To bypass this, you need a reliable package forwarder. A package forwarder provides you with a dedicated US shipping address. When you check out at a US store, you simply enter this address as your delivery destination.
Using a service like comGateway allows you to shop like a US resident, giving you access to 'US-only' releases and domestic shipping promotions that retailers often provide within the States.
Step 3: Calculating Your Budget and Shipping Fees
Before you hit the 'buy' button, it is essential to understand the total cost of ownership. This includes the price of the Labubu figure, US domestic shipping, and the international freight to Malaysia. To avoid any surprises, you should use a shipping calculator to get an accurate estimate of what the final delivery will cost.
Shipping costs are generally determined by the weight and dimensions of the package. It is also wise to review the current international shipping rates to see which courier service (such as DHL or FedEx) offers the best balance of speed and price for your specific needs in 2026.
Step 4: Consolidating Your Labubu Haul
If you are a serious collector, you likely aren't buying just one blind box. One of the best ways to save money is through 'consolidation.' Instead of shipping three separate boxes from three different US stores, you can have them sent to your US address and repacked into a single box. This significantly reduces the 'base' shipping fee applied to every international parcel.
Step 5: Navigating the Shipping Process
Once your items arrive at the US warehouse, the process is straightforward. If you are unfamiliar with how the logistics chain works, here is a quick step-by-step guide to the forwarding process:
- Register: Get your free US address.
- Shop: Buy Labubu from your chosen US retailers.
- Notify: Your forwarder notifies you when the package arrives.
- Ship: Select your shipping method and pay the international fee.
- Receive: The package is delivered to your doorstep in Malaysia.
Step 6: Understanding Malaysia Import Rules for 2026
When shipping from USA to Malaysia, you must be aware of local customs regulations. As of 2026, the Malaysian government continues to apply Sales and Service Tax (SST) on imported low-value goods (LVG). Here is a quick reference for Malaysian collectors:
| Item Value (CIF) | Tax Implication |
|---|---|
| Below RM500 | Subject to 10% LVG Tax (usually charged at point of sale or by the forwarder). |
| Above RM500 | Subject to standard Import Duties and SST depending on the item category. |
Pro Tip: Ensure your invoices are clearly declared as 'Collectible Toys' to help customs officials process your package quickly. Avoid shipping prohibited items like flammable cleaning liquids for toys, as these will be flagged.
Final Thoughts for Malaysian Collectors
Securing a Labubu doesn't have to be a stressful experience of refreshing local pages only to see 'Sold Out.' By leveraging US stores and a professional forwarding service, you open up a much larger inventory. Whether you are looking for the latest 'Have a Seat' vinyl plush or a rare 2026 limited edition drop, the US market is your best resource. Happy hunting, and may your blind box pulls always be the 'Secret' figure!
