Is the Labubu craze finally over in 2026, or is using a freight forwarder still the only way to get the best US drops in Japan?

The Labubu Phenomenon: Why Is Everyone Still Obsessed?

Let’s be real for a second: if you’ve walked through Shibuya or scrolled through your Instagram feed lately, you’ve seen that mischievous, serrated-tooth grin. Labubu, the star of Kasing Lung’s "The Monsters" series from Pop Mart, isn't just a toy anymore—it’s a cultural staple. Even as we move through early 2026, the demand hasn't slowed down. What started as a niche designer toy has exploded into a global must-have, largely thanks to high-profile sightings on the bags of K-pop idols and global fashionistas.

But here in Japan, the struggle is real. Local Pop Mart stores often sell out within minutes, and the secondary market prices on Mercari can be absolutely eye-watering. This has led many savvy collectors to look across the Pacific. The US market often gets different stock allocations, exclusive colorways, and sometimes even better prices during sales events—if you know how to get them here.

The Japan vs. USA Dilemma: Where Is the Stock?

You might be asking, "Why would I buy from the US when I live in the country that practically invented 'kawaii' culture?" The answer is simple: supply and demand. Pop Mart US often stocks limited editions that aren't released in the Asia-Pacific region. Furthermore, US retailers like Mindzai or official Pop Mart US webstores frequently run promotions that, even with shipping costs, can end up being cheaper than buying from a Japanese reseller.

However, the biggest hurdle is that most US-based collectible shops don't offer direct international shipping to Japan, or if they do, the rates are high enough to make you faint. This is where a little bit of logistics magic comes into play.

How to Buy Labubu Directly from US Stores

To get your hands on those US-exclusive Labubu drops, you first need a physical presence in the States. Most collectors use comGateway to get a tax-free us address. This allows you to shop at any US online retailer as if you were living in Oregon or Delaware, completely bypassing the sales tax that usually adds 7-10% to your bill.

Once you have your address, the process is straightforward. You check out on the US site, enter your unique US suite number, and wait for the notification that your package has arrived at the warehouse. If you are new to this, check out this step-by-step guide to see how easy the transition from "Add to Cart" to "At My Door" really is.

Enter the Freight Forwarder: Your Secret Weapon for US Shopping

Why do you need a freight forwarder specifically? Can't you just ask a friend in the States? Well, unless your friend is an expert in customs documentation and gets commercial shipping discounts, a professional service is much safer. A forwarder doesn't just receive your mail; they can consolidate multiple orders into one box to save you a fortune on shipping fees.

Using an international shipping service ensures that your fragile collectibles are repacked securely. We've all seen those horror stories of crushed blind boxes. A dedicated forwarder knows how to handle high-value vinyl figures to ensure Labubu’s ears stay intact during the long flight over the Pacific.

What If the Store Doesn't Accept My Credit Card?

Sometimes, US stores get picky. They might see a Japanese credit card or a non-US billing address and automatically cancel your order. It’s frustrating, but it’s a common hurdle in the world of proxy shopping.

If you hit this wall, you can use the BuyForMe service (also known as an assisted purchase). You simply tell the experts what you want to buy, and they handle the transaction using a US-based payment method. If you have questions about how the payment works, the support center is a great place to clarify the details before you pull the trigger on a rare Labubu Secret.

Calculating Your Total: Shipping and Import Tax for Japan

Before you go on a shopping spree, you need to account for the "hidden" costs. In Japan, most imports are subject to import tax and consumption tax if the value exceeds a certain threshold (usually around ¥16,666 for personal use, though rules for toys can vary).

To avoid any nasty surprises at your doorstep, use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. You can choose between different carriers—for instance, DHL international shipping is incredibly fast and reliable for Japan, while FedEx international shipping often offers competitive rates for heavier hauls if you are buying a whole case of Labubu blind boxes.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Is Labubu worth the extra effort in 2026? If you are a collector who values authenticity and wants to avoid the counterfeit-ridden local reseller market, then absolutely. By shopping directly from US retailers and using a reliable logistics partner, you gain access to a much wider inventory and often save money in the long run.

If you plan on making this a regular hobby, consider looking into Prime membership benefits, which can offer significant discounts on shipping rates and extended storage times. Happy hunting, and may the blind box gods be in your favor—hopefully, you pull that Secret Labubu on your first try!