The Crying Horse Phenomenon: Why Everyone Wants One in 2026
As we settle into the first month of 2026, a new cultural icon has taken the internet by storm: the Crying Horse. What started as a niche art installation in a Brooklyn gallery has rapidly transformed into the must-have lifestyle accessory of the year. Whether it is the viral plushies seen on social media or the high-end ceramic desk ornaments, the Crying Horse represents a unique blend of surrealist humor and emotional expression that resonates with the current zeitgeist.
In the United States, the demand has been so high that retailers are struggling to keep stock. For those of us living in Taiwan, the challenge is even greater. Most official distributors and boutique shops carrying the authentic Crying Horse collection do not offer direct international shipping to Asia, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This has left many local fans wondering how to get their hands on this piece of 2026 history without overpaying.
Where to Find Authentic Crying Horse Merchandise
Currently, the most reliable places to find the Crying Horse are US-based platforms like Amazon, Target, and specialized designer toy sites. Because these items often drop in limited quantities, you need to be quick. Many shoppers have found success by monitoring US-based inventory trackers. However, the biggest hurdle remains the checkout process. Many US storefronts require a local shipping address, and some even restrict purchases to US-issued credit cards.
If you encounter a store that won't accept your international payment method, you can utilize the BuyForMe service. This assisted purchase option allows you to have a professional shopper handle the transaction for you, ensuring you don't miss out on a limited-edition Crying Horse drop simply because of a payment error.
The Secret to Shipping from the USA to Taiwan
Once you have secured your item, the next step is getting it across the Pacific. Direct shipping from US retailers to Taiwan is notoriously expensive and often lacks reliable tracking. This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes essential. By using a forwarder, you get a dedicated US shipping address to use at checkout. The retailer ships your Crying Horse to a warehouse in the US, and from there, it is forwarded directly to your doorstep in Taiwan.
How the Process Works
If you are new to international shopping, don't worry. Using a forwarding service is straightforward. For a detailed breakdown of the logistics, you can follow this step-by-step guide. Essentially, you shop as if you were living in the US, and the forwarder handles the international logistics, customs paperwork, and final delivery.
Estimating Your Total Costs
Before you commit to a purchase, it is vital to understand the total investment. The price of the Crying Horse is only one part of the equation. You must also factor in domestic US shipping (which is often free if you hit a certain threshold), international shipping fees, and potential import duties in Taiwan. To avoid any surprises when your package arrives in Taipei or Kaohsiung, use a shipping calculator to get an accurate estimate of the costs based on the weight and dimensions of the item.
| Cost Component | Description | Estimated Range (TWD) |
|---|---|---|
| Item Price | The retail cost of the Crying Horse | $1,500 - $4,500 |
| US Domestic Shipping | Shipping from retailer to US warehouse | $0 - $300 |
| International Shipping | Forwarding from USA to Taiwan | $600 - $1,200 |
| Import Duty/VAT | Taiwan customs fees (if over $2,000 TWD) | Variable |
Taiwan Customs and Localization Tips
Shipping to Taiwan in 2026 requires adherence to specific customs regulations. As of January 2026, the de minimis threshold for tax-free imports remains at $2,000 TWD. If your Crying Horse plus shipping exceeds this amount, you may be subject to import duties and VAT. Furthermore, ensure your EZ WAY app registration is up to date and linked to your mobile number. This is mandatory for all shipping from USA to Taiwan to ensure smooth customs clearance.
Another tip for Taiwan shoppers is to look for "repacking" services. If the Crying Horse comes in an unnecessarily large box, a forwarder can often downsize the packaging to reduce the volumetric weight, saving you a significant amount on international freight. Given the unique shape of the Crying Horse merchandise, this small step can make a big difference in your final bill.
Final Checklist Before You Buy
- Verify Authenticity: Ensure the seller is an authorized dealer of Crying Horse products to avoid 2026's wave of knock-offs.
- Check Dimensions: Use the dimensions to get a quote from a shipping calculator before hitting the buy button.
- Consolidate: If you are buying other items from the US, consider consolidating them into one shipment to save on base shipping rates.
- Insurance: Since the Crying Horse is a trending collectible, always opt for shipping insurance to protect your investment during transit.
The Crying Horse trend isn't showing signs of slowing down. By following this guide and using a trusted service like comGateway, you can join the global trend and have your items delivered safely to Taiwan without the usual international shopping headaches. Happy shopping!
