Table of Contents
The 2026 Labubu Fever: More Than Just a Toy
As we move through January 2026, the obsession with Labubu blind boxes has reached a fever pitch in Singapore. Created by artist Kasing Lung, these mischievous monsters with their signature serrated teeth have transcended the "designer toy" label to become a full-blown cultural phenomenon. In Singapore, queues at Pop Mart stores often stretch across malls, and the most coveted series—like the latest 2026 Anniversary editions—sell out within minutes of hitting the shelves.
But why are people so hooked? It is the thrill of the "blind" pull combined with the intricate storytelling of the Monsters universe. However, for many local collectors, the frustration of empty shelves and high resale markups has led them to look for alternative ways to complete their collections without the stress.
The Singapore Scarcity Problem
While Singapore is a hub for toy culture, our local stock is often limited by regional allocations. When a new Labubu series drops, the demand in Southeast Asia far outweighs the supply. This leads to a frantic secondary market where prices for a single unboxed figure can triple or quadruple. For those who want the full experience of unboxing a fresh case, the local market can be incredibly unforgiving.
Why the US Market is a Collector's Goldmine
Wait, really? Why would you buy Labubu from halfway across the world? In 2026, US retailers and specialized designer toy boutiques often have different stock cycles than Asia. While a series might be sold out in Funan or ION Orchard, it might still be sitting on the shelves of a boutique in New York or on the Pop Mart US official site. Furthermore, US-exclusive collaborations and colorways are becoming increasingly common, making the American market an essential frontier for serious collectors.
The Lazy Method: Getting US Exclusives to Singapore
If you are worried about the paperwork and complexity of international buying, there is a "lazy method" that requires almost zero effort. Instead of begging US sellers to ship internationally (which they rarely do), you can simply use a reliable package forwarder like comGateway.
The process is incredibly straightforward. When you sign up, you get a tax-free US shipping address. You use this address at checkout on any US website. Once your Labubu boxes arrive at the warehouse, they are forwarded directly to your doorstep in Singapore. This step-by-step guide on how it works shows just how few clicks it takes to bridge the gap between US stores and your display shelf.
Using a freight forwarder means you don't have to worry about whether a US store ships to Singapore; as far as they are concerned, they are just shipping to a domestic address in the States.
Calculating Costs and Avoiding Customs Headaches
One of the biggest concerns for Singaporean shoppers is the cost. Is it worth it to ship a tiny blind box across the Pacific? The secret is consolidation. Instead of shipping one box at a time, you can hold multiple purchases at your US address and ship them all at once to save on international shipping rates. You can check the shipping fees beforehand to plan your haul.
To get a better idea of the total landed cost, use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight of a standard Labubu case. This helps you avoid any surprises when the bill arrives.
Import Taxes and Restrictions
In 2026, Singapore's GST rules apply to all imported goods. When shipping from US to Singapore, comGateway helps streamline the process, but you should always be aware of the current tax thresholds to ensure a smooth delivery. Additionally, while toys are generally safe to ship, it is always wise to glance at the list of prohibited items to ensure no restricted goods are accidentally included in your package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still curious about how to navigate the world of international toy collecting? The FAQ section in the help center covers everything from package insurance to storage limits. Many collectors ask about the safety of blind boxes during transit; fortunately, professional forwarders provide extra padding to ensure your Labubu's ears stay perfectly intact during their long flight home.
If you're ready to skip the lines and the heartbreak of "Out of Stock" signs in Singapore, looking toward the US market is the ultimate pro-move for 2026. With the right support and a bit of planning, that rare Labubu secret figure might be closer than you think.
