The Labubu Craze: Why We’re All Monsters Now
If you have walked through the streets of Sydney or Melbourne lately, you have likely seen a mischievous, serrated-toothed monster dangling from backpacks. That is Labubu, the breakout star of Pop Mart’s "The Monsters" series. Created by artist Kasing Lung, these forest elves have transcended the toy shelf to become the most coveted fashion accessory of 2026.
Why is Australia obsessed? It is the perfect storm of high-fashion aesthetics and the thrill of the blind box. However, while the hype is global, the supply chain is notoriously local. Many of the most exclusive 2026 drops—including the limited-edition metallic series and oversized vinyls—are frequently restricted to North American storefronts, leaving collectors Down Under feeling a bit like they are stuck in the wrong forest.
The American Advantage: Why Shop US Stores?
While Pop Mart has expanded its physical presence in Australia, the sheer volume and variety found in US-based stores remain unmatched. US retailers often get exclusive colorways and first-run releases that sell out in seconds globally. For an Aussie collector, the "Hidden Barrier" isn't just the distance; it is the fact that many US retailers do not offer direct international shipping to Australia, or if they do, the rates are enough to make a monster weep.
Shopping from US stores allows you to bypass local markups and access a wider secondary market on sites like eBay or specialized toy boutiques. To get started, you will need a tax-free US address to act as your base of operations in the States.
The Secret Bridge: Using a Freight Forwarder
When a US store says, "We don't ship to Australia," they are really just inviting you to be more creative. This is where a freight forwarder becomes your best friend. By using a service like comGateway, you get a dedicated US address where your Labubu blind boxes can be sent. Once they arrive at the warehouse, they are consolidated and shipped to your Australian home.
This method is often significantly cheaper than direct shipping. If you are worried about the cost of moving those heavy vinyl figures, you can use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before you even hit the checkout button. It takes the guesswork out of the logistics, ensuring your budget stays focused on the toys, not the transit.
The Proxy Shopping Hack: Navigating US-Only Payments
Sometimes, the barrier isn't the shipping address—it's the credit card. Some US retailers are notoriously picky, rejecting any payment method that isn't issued by a US bank. If you find yourself in this digital deadlock, you can utilize a proxy shopping service.
The comGateway BuyForMe service (also known as assisted purchase) handles the transaction for you. You simply tell them which Labubu you want, and they buy it on your behalf using a US-based payment method. If you have questions about how this works, their FAQ or help center provides a wealth of information for first-time buyers.
Shipping Costs and the Australian Import Tax Reality
Before you go on a Labubu shopping spree, it is vital to understand the local rules. Australia has specific regulations regarding the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Since 2018, the 10% GST applies to low-value imported goods (those valued at AUD $1,000 or less). If your haul exceeds $1,000, you may be liable for additional import tax and customs duties.
Don't let the paperwork scare you off. Check our guide on import duties to see how these 2026 regulations might affect your parcel. Being informed about customs tax ensures there are no nasty surprises when your package hits Australian soil.
Step-by-Step: From US Pop Mart to Your Aussie Doorstep
Ready to bring those monsters home? Here is a step-by-step guide to making it happen:
- Sign Up: Create an account with an international shipping service to get your unique US address.
- Shop: Visit your favorite US stores (Pop Mart US, Mindzai, or eBay) and enter your US address at checkout.
- Consolidate: If you are buying from multiple stores, wait for all your Labubus to arrive at the warehouse. You can consolidate them into one box to save on international shipping fees.
- Ship: Choose your preferred carrier—whether it is DHL international shipping for speed or FedEx international shipping for reliability—and pay for the final leg to Australia.
By following this method, you are no longer limited by what is available at your local shopping mall. You can finally complete your 2026 collection without the "Hidden Barrier" of geography standing in your way. Happy hunting!
