- Why the 2026 Ray-Ban Year of the Horse Collection is Trending
- Why You Should Buy from US Stores Instead of Local Retailers
- The Effortless Way to Ship from the US to Taiwan
- Avoid Checkout Issues with Proxy Shopping
- Calculating Shipping Costs and Import Rules for Taiwan
- Final Checklist for a Stress-Free Purchase
Why the 2026 Ray-Ban Year of the Horse Collection is Trending
As we enter 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse, Ray-Ban has released a commemorative collection that is currently dominating fashion discussions in the US. This isn't just a simple logo swap; the 2026 collection features intricate gold-etched horse motifs on the inner temples of iconic frames like the Aviator and the Wayfarer. Collectors are particularly drawn to the limited-edition crimson-tinted lenses that symbolize luck and vitality for the new year.
The hype is real because these pieces are produced in limited quantities. In the US, major eyewear retailers have already started rolling out these designs, making them a high-demand item for those looking to blend heritage with modern streetwear. For fans in Taiwan, getting your hands on these can be difficult if you rely solely on local stock, which is often delayed or carries a significant markup.
Why You Should Buy from US Stores Instead of Local Retailers
Shopping directly from US retailers like Nordstrom, Sunglass Hut, or the official Ray-Ban US site offers two major advantages: availability and price. Often, the full range of the Year of the Horse collection—including specific frame sizes and lens tech like Chromance—is only available in the North American market. Furthermore, US seasonal sales can make these premium sunglasses significantly cheaper than the retail prices found in Taipei boutiques.
However, many US stores do not ship directly to Taiwan, or if they do, the shipping fees are exorbitant. This is where using a freight forwarder becomes the smartest move. By using a US-based address, you can access the same deals as American shoppers and ensure you aren't blocked by regional shipping restrictions.
The Effortless Way to Ship from the US to Taiwan
If you want to avoid the headache of complex logistics, the "lazy method" is to use a dedicated service like comGateway. When you sign up, you receive a tax-free us address located in Oregon. This is a game-changer because it allows you to skip US sales tax entirely, saving you an immediate 7-10% on your Ray-Ban purchase.
Once your package arrives at the warehouse, you can choose when to ship it to your doorstep in Taiwan. This method is direct and requires zero technical knowledge of international freight—you just shop like a local and let the experts handle the transit.
Avoid Checkout Issues with Proxy Shopping
Sometimes, US websites are picky about international credit cards. If you find your Taiwan-issued card is being declined at checkout, don't waste time calling the bank. You can use a proxy shopping service to handle the transaction for you.
Through the BuyForMe service, you simply provide the URL of the sunglasses you want, and the team will purchase them on your behalf. This is the ultimate "hands-off" approach for the busy shopper who just wants their 2026 Year of the Horse frames without the digital hurdles.
Calculating Shipping Costs and Import Rules for Taiwan
Before you hit the buy button, it is wise to know exactly what you will be paying. You can use a shipping calculator to get an instant estimate of the costs from the US to Taiwan based on the weight of the eyewear. Usually, sunglasses are lightweight, making them one of the most cost-effective items to ship internationally.
Regarding Taiwan's import rules, remember that the de minimis threshold is NT$2,000. If your Ray-Bans exceed this, you may be subject to import duty and VAT. To keep things simple, ensure your EZ WAY app is updated and your real-name authentication is complete. This is the only bit of "paperwork" you'll need to deal with, and it's all handled on your phone.
You should also double-check the prohibited items list. While sunglasses are perfectly fine, if you are buying a cleaning kit that includes pressurized sprays or certain flammable liquids, those might be restricted. Check the guide to ensure your entire order is cleared for takeoff.
Final Checklist for a Stress-Free Purchase
To summarize, getting the Ray-Ban Year of the Horse collection to Taiwan is easy if you follow these steps:
- Secure your tax-free us address to save on sales tax.
- Use the estimate shipping cost tool to budget your delivery.
- If the store won't accept your card, use assisted purchase options.
- If you have specific questions about insurance or storage, visit the support page for quick answers.
By following this direct path, you'll be wearing your limited-edition 2026 frames while others are still waiting for local stores to update their catalogs. Happy Year of the Horse!
