Can German collectors justify paying €70 over the US retail price for the Labubu Year of the Horse series?

March 06, 2026

The 2026 Labubu Phenomenon

As of March 2026, the Pop Mart Labubu 'Year of the Horse' series has transcended standard collectible status to become a high-yield asset for enthusiasts. Following its February release, the secondary market in Europe has seen prices inflate by as much as 150%. While Thailand remains the epicenter of the craze, savvy German collectors are looking toward US inventory where retail prices remain stabilized at approximately $25 to $30 per blind box, compared to the €65 listings often found on local resale platforms.

Can German collectors justify paying €70 over the US retail price for the Labubu Year of the Horse series?
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The appeal lies in the intricate zodiac design, blending traditional aesthetics with the signature mischievous grin of Kasing Lung's creation. For those in Germany, obtaining these units directly from US retailers is the most viable path to securing an authentic piece without the exorbitant markups found within the EU.

Sourcing From the United States

Acquiring these figures requires a strategic approach to logistics. Many US retailers do not offer direct delivery to Europe, or their rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where a professional freight forwarder like comGateway becomes essential. By utilizing a tax-free US address, you can consolidate multiple blind boxes to optimize your costs.

If you are new to cross-border shopping, a how it works guide can clarify the process of moving goods from a US warehouse to your doorstep in Berlin or Munich. This method often results in a total cost that is €30 to €40 lower than purchasing from local resellers.

Overcoming Merchant Blocks

A significant hurdle for German shoppers is the restrictive payment processing used by major US storefronts. High-demand retailers like Pop Mart US or specialized boutique toy stores frequently block international credit cards or cancel orders associated with known shipping hubs. This can lead to missed drops and significant frustration when trying to secure the Year of the Horse series.

The most effective solution is to utilize a BuyForMe service. Through this proxy shopping arrangement, a local US team purchases the item using a domestic payment method on your behalf. This buy for me approach is the safest way to guarantee your order is processed successfully, bypassing the automated filters that often target international buyers.

Shipping Estimates and Logistics

To accurately budget for your 2026 collection, you must account for the physical profile of the items. Below are the estimated specifications for the Labubu 'Year of the Horse' series to help you use the shipping calculator effectively.

Metric Estimate for Single Blind Box Estimate for Full Case (12 Units)
Box Weight Approx. 0.3 kg (0.6 lbs) Approx. 4.0 kg (8.8 lbs)
Dimensions Small (12x8x8 cm) Medium (30x25x20 cm)
Battery Check None (No Lithium Batteries) None

Volumetric Warning: While a single Labubu figure is light, those purchasing the larger plush variants or full display sets should be aware that international shipping costs may be calculated based on the volume of the box rather than its actual weight. Always check if your items can be repacked to minimize empty space.

Germany Import Considerations

When shipping to Germany, you must account for the import tax and VAT. For items valued under €150, you will generally only be responsible for the 19% Einfuhrumsatzsteuer (Import VAT). However, if your collection exceeds this value, additional customs duties may apply. Carriers like DHL international shipping or FedEx international shipping typically handle the customs clearance on your behalf and invoice you for the fees upon delivery.

Before finalizing your purchase, ensure your items do not fall under any shipping rules regarding restricted materials. You can review the latest prohibited items list to confirm that your specific Labubu variant—especially if it includes unique materials or liquids—is eligible for transport to the EU.

By sourcing from the US and utilizing a consolidation service, German collectors can often save over €70 on a full set compared to local market prices in 2026.

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