Don't Get Stung by Extra Fees When Buying Pop Mart Star People from US Stores

The Global Hype Behind Pop Mart Star People in 2026

As we move through January 2026, the designer toy market has found its latest obsession: Pop Mart Star People. This series, characterized by its ethereal designs and celestial themes, has transcended the typical "blind box" community to become a legitimate cultural phenomenon in the United States. For collectors in Hong Kong, the demand is just as high, but the supply often falls short of the massive local fan base.

The hype is driven by limited-edition drops and collaborations that are currently exclusive to North American retailers. Because these figures often resell for triple their retail value on the secondary market, getting them directly from US sources is the most cost-effective way to build a collection—provided you know how to navigate the logistics.

Why US Stores are the Go-To for Hong Kong Collectors

While Hong Kong has its fair share of Pop Mart outlets, the US market frequently receives different inventory allocations and exclusive "Star People" variants that never reach Asian shores. Furthermore, major US retailers often run seasonal promotions that can make the unit price significantly lower than local HK boutiques.

However, buying from the US isn't as simple as entering your Hong Kong address. Many US storefronts do not offer international shipping, or if they do, the rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes essential for any serious collector.

The Hidden Costs of Importing to Hong Kong

Hong Kong is famously a free port, meaning there is generally no import tax or GST on consumer goods like toys. However, this doesn't mean your shipment is free of "hidden costs." Many hobbyists are surprised by the final bill because they fail to account for the financial nuances of international logistics in 2026.

To avoid overpaying, you should always use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before you finalize your purchase. This helps you understand the total landed cost before your credit card is even charged.

The US Sales Tax Trap

One of the most common hidden fees is US State Sales Tax. When you buy from a US website, they often charge tax based on the shipping address (which can be up to 10% in states like California or New York). To bypass this, savvy Hong Kong shoppers ship their items to a tax-free state like Oregon. By using a package forwarder with a warehouse in a tax-exempt zip code, you instantly save roughly 7-10% on the purchase price of your Star People figures.

Volumetric Weight vs. Actual Weight

In 2026, international couriers increasingly rely on "dim weight" or volumetric weight. Since Pop Mart Star People often come in decorative (and sometimes bulky) packaging, you might be charged based on the size of the box rather than how much the figures actually weigh. You can check the current international shipping rates to see how different weights affect your shipping fees.

Smart Shipping: Using comGateway for Hong Kong Delivery

To successfully bring your Star People home without the headache, you need a structured approach. For those new to the world of US-to-HK shopping, here is a how it works step-by-step guide:

• Step 1: Register for a US shipping address (look for tax-free options).
• Step 2: Shop at your favorite US retailers and use that address at checkout.
• Step 3: Once your Star People arrive at the warehouse, use consolidation services to combine multiple orders into one box. This significantly lowers the cost per item.
• Step 4: Select your preferred shipping speed to Hong Kong and pay the localized fees.

Avoiding Common Customs and Logistics Traps

While toys are generally safe, you should always stay updated on what can and cannot be shipped across borders. You might also like to check our guide on prohibited items to ensure your specific collectibles or any accompanying accessories (like cleaning kits or electronic components) aren't flagged as restricted goods.

Pro Tip for 2026: Always opt for shipping insurance for high-value collectibles like the Star People series. If a package is lost or damaged during its journey across the Pacific, having that protection ensures your investment is safe.

Summary of Potential Fees

By understanding these financial levers, collectors in Hong Kong can enjoy the latest Pop Mart Star People releases without the sting of unexpected invoices. Happy hunting!