Many Australians are losing their LEGO Tuxedo Cat orders because of US store payment blocks

February 24, 2026

The 2026 obsession with the LEGO Tuxedo Cat

The LEGO Icons Tuxedo Cat (10345) remains one of the most sought-after sets in early 2026. This buildable feline has stayed viral among pet lovers because of its lifelike scale and customizable features. For many in Australia, owning this set is a priority, but the local retail availability has been inconsistent since its initial launch. The lifelike eyes and the ability to pose the cat in different positions make it a centerpiece for collectors, yet the difficulty of finding it on local shelves at a fair price persists.

Many Australians are losing their LEGO Tuxedo Cat orders because of US store payment blocks
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Why buying from the US makes sense for Australians

Australian retail markups on the LEGO Icons series are often significantly higher than the standard US retail price. Even with the current exchange rates in 2026, purchasing directly from American retailers often results in a lower total cost. To do this, many collectors use a freight forwarder to bridge the gap between US warehouses and their front door. Using a tax-free us address provided by a forwarding service allows you to avoid state sales taxes in the US, which further increases the savings on a large set like the Tuxedo Cat.

The risk of order cancellations at US checkouts

The process of buying from the US is not always straightforward for those living in Australia. A common problem occurs when major US retailers detect an international credit card or a shipping address associated with a warehouse. You might find that your order for the LEGO Icons Tuxedo Cat (10345) is accepted initially, only to be cancelled an hour later without a clear explanation. This happens because many US stores, similar to how brands like Nike, Sephora, or Apple operate, have strict security protocols that block international payment methods to prevent unauthorized exports or fraud. If you ignore this risk, you may end up with temporary holds on your funds and no LEGO set to show for it.

How BuyForMe prevents your LEGO order from being voided

The most reliable way to avoid the frustration of a cancelled order is to use the BuyForMe service. This is an assisted purchase feature where comGateway purchases the item on your behalf using a US domestic credit card. Since the transaction appears as a local US purchase to the retailer, the risk of the store flagging your order is almost entirely removed. This is the safest way to guarantee your order doesn't get cancelled by picky retailers who refuse to accept Australian-issued plastic. Instead of fighting with a checkout page that won't accept your billing address, you simply tell the service what you want, and they handle the procurement.

Getting your Tuxedo Cat to Australia safely

Once the set is secured at your US address, you need to manage the journey home. You can use the shipping calculator to get a clear idea of what the transit costs will look like before you commit. Large LEGO boxes can be bulky, so choosing a reliable international shipping service is important to ensure the box arrives without crushed corners. Most collectors prefer a buy from US ship to Australia workflow because it offers more tracking transparency than standard postal services. Your package will usually arrive at your Australian address within a few business days once it leaves the US hub.

Australian shipping rules and prohibited items

Australia has specific regulations regarding what can be imported, though plastic construction toys are generally safe. However, if you are planning to add other items to your shipment to save on costs, it is wise to check the list of prohibited items first. Items like certain liquids, batteries, or flammable materials can cause your entire shipment to be seized or delayed. For the LEGO Icons Tuxedo Cat (10345), the main thing to remember is that GST may be applicable depending on the total value of your imports. Ensuring your documentation is correct is the best way to avoid having your package held up by Australian Border Force.

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