The Labubu Phenomenon: Why Everyone in Hong Kong is Obsessed
If you have walked through Mong Kok or scrolled through Instagram lately, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, serrated-teeth grin of Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung as part of 'The Monsters' series, Labubu has transcended being a mere vinyl toy to become a global cultural icon. In 2026, the craze shows no signs of slowing down, with new series drops selling out in seconds.
While Hong Kong has its fair share of Pop Mart outlets and blind box boutiques, the demand often far outstrips the supply. This scarcity has led many savvy collectors in Hong Kong to look toward the United States, where exclusive collaborations and different stock allocations provide a golden opportunity to snag those hard-to-find figures without paying exorbitant local reseller prices.
Why Buy Labubu from US Stores?
The US market often receives different editions or larger restocks of popular series like the 'Have a Seat' or 'Lazy Yoga' collections. Additionally, major US retailers and specialized designer toy shops frequently run promotions that aren't available in Asia. However, the biggest hurdle for Hong Kong fans is that many of these US-based stores do not offer direct international shipping, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive.
This is where using a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. By using a US-based address, you can shop like a local, taking advantage of domestic shipping rates and exclusive US-only releases. Read more: Stop Believing You Can Only Find Rare Labubu Figures in Asia.
How to Secure Your Labubu: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the US e-commerce landscape is straightforward once you have the right tools. If you are new to the world of proxy shopping, understanding how it works is your first step. Essentially, you receive a dedicated US shipping address which you use at checkout on sites like Pop Mart US, NTWRK, or even eBay.
Once your Labubu arrives at the US warehouse, you can manage your shipment through a step-by-step guide provided by your forwarding service. This allows you to consolidate multiple purchases—perhaps a Labubu from one store and some exclusive apparel from another—into a single box to save on costs.
Understanding Shipping Costs and Logistics
Before you hit that 'Buy' button, it is crucial to understand the total investment. Shipping a small blind box is relatively cheap, but if you are collecting the 400% or 1000% Mega Space Molly x Labubu crossovers, the weight and dimensions will affect your final price. You should always use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before committing to a purchase.
Transparency is key when it comes to international shipping rates. By comparing different shipping fees, you can decide whether you want express delivery (perfect for that 'new toy' dopamine hit) or a more economical standard option. For frequent shoppers, looking into Prime membership benefits can offer significant long-term savings on every shipment you send to Hong Kong.
Import Duties and Hong Kong Localization
One of the best parts about being a collector in Hong Kong is our status as a free port. Generally, Hong Kong does not levy import duties or GST/VAT on most consumer goods, including toys and collectibles. However, it is always wise to stay updated on customs tax regulations to ensure your package clears smoothly without unexpected delays.
Read more: Stop Overpaying for Labubu: How to Save Money by Importing from the US to Hong Kong.
Final Checklist Before You Buy
To ensure a seamless experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Verify the Seller: Stick to official stores or highly-rated sellers on marketplaces to avoid fakes.
- Check Dimensions: Labubu figures come in various sizes; ensure the US store listing matches your expectations.
- Consolidate: If buying multiple blind boxes, wait for them all to arrive at the warehouse to ship them together.
- Need Help? If you encounter issues with a US merchant, consult the FAQ or reach out to the help center for support.
By leveraging a comGateway account, you effectively erase the borders of the toy market. In 2026, being a global collector means shopping where the stock is, and right now, the US is a treasure trove for Labubu enthusiasts in Hong Kong. Happy hunting!
