The Labubu Phenomenon in 2026
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, serrated-tooth grin of Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung as part of 'The Monsters' series, Labubu has evolved from a niche designer toy into a global cultural icon. As of January 2026, the demand for these vinyl figures has reached a fever pitch, especially in the United Kingdom, where local stock often sells out within seconds of hitting the shelves.
While the character has roots in Hong Kong and is produced by Pop Mart, the United States has become the primary battleground for exclusive drops and limited-edition colorways. For collectors in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh, securing a piece from a US-based retailer can feel like an impossible task due to shipping restrictions and high costs. However, there is a proven method to bypass these hurdles.
Why UK Collectors are Looking Toward the US
The primary reason for the surge in US-to-UK orders is availability. Many major collaborations and blind box series are allocated more heavily to North American flagship stores. Furthermore, certain retailers like Mindzai, BAIT, and the official Pop Mart US webstore often stock variants that never see a European release. You might also like to Read more: Stop Believing You Can't Get Labubu in the UK: The Truth About US Exclusives to understand why these regional exclusives are so sought after.
The Shipping Hurdle: Why You Need a Forwarder
The biggest challenge for UK fans is that many US boutiques do not offer international shipping, or if they do, the rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. By using a service like comGateway, you are provided with a dedicated US shipping address. You can shop at any US store, ship your Labubu figures to your US address, and then have them consolidated and forwarded to your doorstep in the UK.
Using comGateway not only allows you to access stores that don't ship internationally but also gives you more control over the logistics. Before you commit to a purchase, it is a smart move to use the shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. This ensures there are no surprises when your package is ready to cross the Atlantic.
Read This Before You Buy: The Essential Checklist
Before you rush to complete your checkout, there are several factors you must consider to ensure a smooth delivery. Check our guide on Read more: The Essential Checklist for UK Collectors Buying Labubu from US Stores for a deep dive into the specifics.
1. Verify Product Legitimacy
The popularity of Labubu in 2026 has unfortunately led to a rise in counterfeit products. Always buy from authorized retailers. If a price seems too good to be true, it likely is. Many collectors use the BuyForMe service for an assisted purchase if they are struggling to navigate a specific US site or if the retailer does not accept international credit cards.
2. Check Prohibited Items and Regulations
While vinyl toys are generally safe to ship, some collector sets include liquids, batteries, or other materials that might be flagged. It is vital to review the prohibited items list to ensure your specific items aren't classified as restricted goods. If you are ever unsure, you can reach out to the help center for support or check the general FAQ section.
3. Understand UK Import Rules
Shipping from the US to the UK means your package will pass through HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). You will need to account for import duties, GST/VAT, and potential customs tax. In the UK, VAT is typically charged on goods worth more than £135, and the rates can vary depending on the classification of the item. Being prepared for these costs is what separates savvy collectors from those who end up with unexpected bills.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Labubu from the US
- Sign Up: Create an account with a forwarder to get your US address.
- Shop: Browse US stores for your desired Labubu series.
- Checkout: Use your provided US address as the shipping destination.
- Consolidate: If you are buying from multiple stores, wait for all items to arrive at the US warehouse to save on shipping.
- Ship to UK: Select your preferred shipping speed and pay the forwarding fees.
For more insider tips, Read more: How Savvy UK Collectors Are Secretly Scoring US-Exclusive Labubu Drops Without the Markup.
Conclusion
The Labubu craze shows no signs of slowing down in 2026. By looking beyond the UK market and tapping into US inventory, you can significantly expand your collection and find those elusive secret figures. Just remember to do your homework: calculate your costs, understand the customs regulations, and use a trusted partner to handle your international logistics. Happy hunting!
