How to Get Official Labubu Figures from the USA to Japan in 5 Easy Steps

Why Labubu is Trending in 2026

As we move through 2026, the obsession with designer art toys has reached a fever pitch, and no character dominates the scene quite like Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung as part of "The Monsters" series, this mischievous elf with serrated teeth has become a global cultural icon. While the hype started years ago, the demand in 2026 has been sustained by high-profile celebrity endorsements and limited-edition drops that sell out in seconds.

For fans in Japan, the aesthetic appeal of Labubu fits perfectly within the local "kawaii" and "kimo-kawaii" (gross-cute) culture. However, because Japan is a primary market for these figures, the competition is fierce. Local Pop Mart stores and official retailers often face massive queues and immediate stock depletion, leading many to seek alternative ways to secure their favorite vinyl figures.

The Challenge for Collectors in Japan

The primary hurdle for Japanese collectors is the local resale market. When a new series drops, prices on secondary platforms often triple overnight. This is why many savvy collectors are looking toward the United States. US-based retailers often receive different stock allocations, and because the time zones differ, Japanese buyers can sometimes find "restock" windows that occur while the local market is asleep.

Read more: Stop Believing You Can't Get Official Labubu Drops in Japan Without Paying Reseller Prices. By shopping internationally, you open up a much wider inventory of blind boxes, mega figures, and plush pendants that are otherwise impossible to find in Harajuku or Shibuya.

Step 1: Identify Authorized US Retailers

To avoid counterfeit products, which have unfortunately become common in 2026, you must stick to authorized US retailers. Pop Mart’s official US webstore is the most obvious choice, but other boutique art toy shops in New York and Los Angeles also carry official stock. When shopping in the US, you get the benefit of authentic packaging and the chance to pull rare "secret" figures from untampered cases.

Check our guide on the process: Read more: 5 Simple Steps to Score Rare Labubu Figures from the USA and Ship to Japan.

Step 2: Set Up Your US Shipping Address

Most US retailers do not offer direct international shipping to Japan, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively expensive. This is where comGateway becomes essential. By signing up, you receive a sales-tax-free US shipping address. This allows you to shop like a US resident, avoiding the local sales tax in states like California or New York, which can save you up to 10% on your initial purchase.

Using a reliable package forwarder ensures that your delicate Labubu figures are handled with care and stored safely before being sent across the Pacific.

Step 3: Estimate Your Shipping Costs

Before you go on a shopping spree, it is wise to understand the logistics. Shipping from the US to Japan involves weight and dimensional considerations. To avoid surprises, use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the size of the Labubu series you are buying. For example, a single blind box is light, but a 1000% Mega Labubu figure requires a much larger box and more protective padding.

Step 4: Placing Your Order and Consolidation

Once you have your US address, simply enter it as the delivery destination at checkout on the US store. When your items arrive at the warehouse, you can take advantage of consolidation services. If you’ve bought from multiple different stores, you can wait for all your Labubus to arrive and ship them together in one box. This significantly reduces the cost of shipping from USA to Japan.

For frequent collectors, looking into Prime membership benefits can offer even deeper discounts on shipping rates and extended storage times, which is perfect for waiting on those staggered release dates.

Step 5: Navigating Japan Customs and Delivery

When your package arrives in Japan, it will pass through customs. Generally, for personal imports, if the value of your shipment is under 16,666 JPY, you are exempt from import duties and consumption tax. However, for high-value items like the Mega Labubu series, you should be prepared to pay the applicable customs tax upon delivery.

If you have questions about specific prohibited items or how to declare your toys, the FAQ section on the help center provides detailed guidance for Japanese residents. Their support team is also available to help clarify any regional restrictions.

Maximizing Your Collection Strategy

Success in the art toy world requires a mix of speed and strategy. By leveraging the US market, you are no longer limited by the stock levels at your local mall. You can participate in US-exclusive drops and holiday sales that aren't available in Asia.

You might also like: Read more: 7 Secrets to Scoring Exclusive Labubu Figures from the USA While Living in Japan.

With a clear plan and a trusted forwarding partner, your Labubu collection can grow without the stress of reseller markups. Start exploring US stores today and bring those elusive monsters home to Japan!