Table of Contents
- The 2026 Hype: Why Everyone Wants Pop Mart Star People
- Where to Buy Star People in the US
- The Secret to Shipping from the US to Taiwan
- How It Works: A Step-by-Step Guide to International Shipping
- Estimating Your Shipping Costs to Taiwan
- Navigating Taiwan Customs and Import Rules
- Prohibited Items and Shipping Safety
- Maximizing Savings with Prime Membership
The 2026 Hype: Why Everyone Wants Pop Mart Star People
As we move into early 2026, the designer toy world has been set ablaze by the latest release from Pop Mart: the Star People collection. Originally launched as a limited US-exclusive series, these figures have become the "holy grail" for collectors in Taiwan and across Asia. The hype stems from the unique celestial aesthetic and the high rarity of the "chase" figures, which are currently fetching record prices on the secondary market.
For collectors in Taiwan, the challenge is that many of these specific editions are restricted to the US Pop Mart official site or select boutique retailers in North America. This geographic restriction has created a massive demand for savvy shopping strategies to bring these "Star People" home without paying exorbitant reseller markups.
Where to Buy Star People in the US
To get your hands on these figures at retail price, you need to know where to look. The primary source is the official Pop Mart US webstore. However, high-demand drops often sell out in minutes. Other reputable retailers include Mindzai, MyPlasticHeart, and specialized designer toy shops across the United States. In 2026, many of these stores have updated their checkout systems to prioritize domestic US shipping addresses, which can be a hurdle for international fans.
The Secret to Shipping from the US to Taiwan
If you have tried to check out only to find that the store doesn't ship to Taiwan, don't worry. The most effective way to bypass these restrictions is to use a reliable package forwarder. By using a service like comGateway, you are provided with a dedicated US shipping address. This allows you to shop at any US retailer as if you were living in the States.
Using a forwarder not only opens up access to US-exclusive inventory but also often provides better handling for fragile collectibles like the Star People vinyl figures. Once your package arrives at the US warehouse, it is processed and prepared for its journey to your doorstep in Taiwan.
How It Works: A Step-by-Step Guide to International Shipping
If you are new to international shopping, the process is simpler than you might think. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting started:
- Sign Up: Register for a free account to receive your unique US shipping address.
- Shop: Visit your favorite US stores and enter your comGateway address at checkout.
- Notify: Once your Star People figures reach the warehouse, you will receive a notification.
- Ship: Choose your preferred shipping speed and pay the international shipping fees to have the items sent to Taiwan.
Estimating Your Shipping Costs to Taiwan
One of the biggest concerns for collectors is the cost of shipping. Because Pop Mart boxes are relatively lightweight but can be bulky if you buy a full "blind box" set, it is important to calculate your expenses beforehand. You can use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the dimensions and weight of the package. In 2026, shipping rates have stabilized, but it is always wise to check for fuel surcharge updates before placing a large order.
Navigating Taiwan Customs and Import Rules
When importing goods into Taiwan, you must be aware of the Ministry of Finance's regulations. As of 2026, the de minimis threshold remains at NT$2,000. If your Pop Mart Star People order (including shipping) exceeds this amount, you may be subject to import duties and VAT. Furthermore, remember that you are limited to six low-value tax-exempt shipments every half-year. Make sure your EZ WAY app is updated and your real-name authentication is complete to ensure a smooth customs clearance process.
Prohibited Items and Shipping Safety
Before you go on a shopping spree, it is vital to review the list of prohibited items. While most Pop Mart figures are made of PVC or ABS plastic and are perfectly safe to ship, some special editions might include batteries for LED features or liquid components in "snow globe" style designs. Checking the restricted goods list ensures your package won't be held up at the warehouse or rejected by the airline.
Maximizing Savings with Prime Membership
For serious collectors who plan on buying every new Pop Mart wave throughout 2026, a membership plan is highly recommended. You can enjoy various Prime membership benefits, such as discounted shipping rates, free storage for consolidation, and priority processing. Consolidating multiple orders into one box is the most effective way to reduce the overall cost per figure.
If you have more questions about specific shipping scenarios or insurance for high-value "chase" figures, the FAQ section is an excellent resource for quick answers. Their help center provides detailed information on everything from package repacking to tracking your shipment across the Pacific.
Conclusion
The Pop Mart Star People collection is a testament to the thriving designer toy culture of 2026. While geographic barriers can be frustrating, using a forwarder makes the US market accessible to everyone in Taiwan. Happy hunting, and may you find the secret figure in your next blind box!
