Why is Everyone Talking About 哭哭馬?
If you’ve been scrolling through social media at all this January 2026, you’ve likely seen the distinctive, melancholy charm of the 哭哭馬 (often translated as the "Crying Horse"). What started as a niche designer toy movement in the US has exploded into a full-blown cultural phenomenon.
It’s not just about the aesthetic; it’s about the rarity. These pieces are dropping in limited editions that sell out in minutes. For those of us living in the United Kingdom, the FOMO is real. Most of the primary drops are happening through US-based retailers or specialized boutique shops that don’t always offer direct shipping to London, Manchester, or Edinburgh. But don't worry—getting one isn't impossible if you have the right blueprint.
The US Market Advantage: Why You Need to Source from America
You might be wondering why you can't just wait for a UK release. The truth is, 2026 has shown us that the US remains the primary hub for these collectibles. Read more: Why 85% of Crying Horse Collectors are Sourcing from the USA in 2026 to understand the supply chain dynamics that keep the best stock across the Atlantic.
By shopping directly from US stores, you get access to the full range of 哭哭馬 variants before they hit the secondary market at 3x the price. The key is knowing how to navigate those "US Only" shipping restrictions that many of these shops have.
Your Step-by-Step Buying Plan
Think of this as your architectural plan for a successful delivery. You don't want to wing it when a limited drop is live. Follow these steps:
- Identify the Store: Most 哭哭馬 drops happen on specialized e-commerce sites or major platforms like Amazon US.
- Get a US Address: Since many of these stores won't ship to the UK, you'll need a reliable package forwarder. This gives you a dedicated US address to use at checkout.
- Check the Specs: Ensure the item isn't on a restricted list. If you're unsure, the FAQ or support center of your forwarder can usually clarify what can and cannot be shipped.
Mastering International Shipping to the UK
Once your 哭哭馬 arrives at your US address, the next phase of the plan is getting it across the pond. This is where people usually get nervous about costs, but it's actually quite predictable if you use the right tools.
Before you commit, it’s a smart move to use a shipping calculator. This allows you to input the weight and dimensions of your package so you aren't surprised by the bill. You can also compare different international shipping rates to decide whether you want the fastest express delivery or a more budget-friendly standard option.
UK Customs and VAT: What You Need to Know
Importing goods into the UK in 2026 involves a few specific rules that you need to factor into your blueprint. Since the UK left the EU, the rules for import duties and VAT have become more streamlined but are strictly enforced.
For most 哭哭馬 collectibles, if the value is under £135, VAT is often collected at the point of sale (if the retailer is registered) or handled by the courier. If the value exceeds £135, you may be liable for both customs tax and VAT. Always keep a little extra in your budget to cover these fees so your horse doesn't get stuck in a customs warehouse!
Pro Tips for UK Collectors in 2026
To really succeed with this plan, consider "repacking" or "consolidation." If you are buying multiple 哭哭馬 figures from different US sellers, a comGateway account allows you to combine them into one box. This significantly reduces the total shipping cost compared to sending three or four separate packages to the UK.
Also, stay active in the community. Reddit threads and Discord servers are great for real-time updates on when the next 哭哭馬 wave is hitting US stores. With your US address ready and your shipping plan in place, you'll be ahead of 90% of other UK collectors.
Good luck with your hunt! It might take a few steps, but seeing that 哭哭馬 on your shelf in London is well worth the effort.
