- The 2026 Labubu Craze: Why Everyone is Still Obsessed
- The Big Myth: "Shipping from the US to Taiwan is a Budget Killer"
- Where to Find Labubu in the States When Taiwan is Sold Out
- How to Use a Freight Forwarder Like a Pro
- Taiwan Import Checklist: EZ WAY and Duty-Free Limits
- Staying Safe: What You Can and Can't Ship
The 2026 Labubu Craze: Why Everyone is Still Obsessed
It’s January 2026, and if you’ve walked through Ximending or scrolled through your Instagram feed lately, you know that Labubu—the mischievous monster with the serrated teeth from Pop Mart—isn't just a trend; it's a lifestyle. Created by Kasing Lung, these vinyl figures have transcended being just "toys" to become high-fashion accessories and must-have collectibles for every desk in Taiwan.
The problem? Whenever a new series drops, Taiwan stores sell out in seconds. This has led to a massive secondary market where resellers mark up prices by 200% or more. Many local collectors assume they are stuck paying these "Taiwan taxes" because buying from abroad seems like a headache. But here is a secret: the US market often has stock when Asia is bone-dry, and getting them here is simpler than you think.
The Big Myth: "Shipping from the US to Taiwan is a Budget Killer"
I see this all the time on Dcard and PTT: "I found a Labubu at Pop Mart US, but the shipping will cost more than the figure!" Let’s set the record right. While direct shipping from a US retailer to Taipei can indeed be pricey, that’s not how savvy collectors do it.
The myth is that you have to use the retailer's default shipping. The reality? Using a freight forwarder like comGateway allows you to ship your items to a tax-free US address first. This eliminates US sales tax (which can be up to 10% depending on the state) and gives you access to much lower international rates. When you actually use a shipping calculator, you’ll often find that the combined price of the US retail tag plus shipping is still significantly lower than what a local reseller is asking for on Shopee.
Where to Find Labubu in the States When Taiwan is Sold Out
If you're looking to expand your collection in 2026, you need to look beyond the usual suspects. Here are the best places to hunt in the US:
- Pop Mart US Official: They often have different stock allocations than the Taiwan branches.
- Mindzai & Myplasticheart: These are major US-based designer toy boutiques that carry official Pop Mart releases.
- NTWRK: A live-streaming shopping app that frequently hosts exclusive Labubu drops.
- eBay US: Great for finding older, retired series that are no longer available in retail stores.
If a US store doesn't accept your international credit card, don't panic. You can use a buy for me usa service to have a local agent handle the purchase for you, ensuring you never miss a drop due to payment hurdles.
How to Use a Freight Forwarder Like a Pro
Once you’ve secured your Labubu, the next step is getting it to your doorstep in Taiwan. This is where an international shipping service becomes your best friend. Instead of shipping one blind box at a time, you can have your purchases held at your US address and consolidate them into one single box.
Consolidation is the "pro move" for 2026. By grouping three or four figures together, the cost per item drops dramatically. You can estimate shipping cost ahead of time so there are no surprises when the bill arrives. This method turns a potentially expensive hobby into a manageable one.
Taiwan Import Checklist: EZ WAY and Duty-Free Limits
Since you are shipping from US to Taiwan, you need to keep a few local regulations in mind. Taiwan Customs is quite strict, but as long as you follow the rules, it’s a breeze.
First, make sure you have the EZ WAY app downloaded and your real-name authentication completed. Every package coming from the US will require you to click "Confirm" in the app before it can be released from customs. Second, remember the NT$2,000 duty-free limit. If your shipment (including shipping costs) stays under this amount, you won't pay any import tax. If you go over, be prepared to pay a small percentage in customs duties. Even with these duties, buying from the US is frequently the cheaper route for rare 2026 editions.
Staying Safe: What You Can and Can't Ship
While Labubu vinyl figures are perfectly safe to ship, some collectors like to buy related merch like Labubu-themed room sprays or electronic gadgets. This is where you need to be careful. Before you hit that "buy" button, check the list of prohibited items to ensure your goodies aren't restricted. For example, items containing batteries or certain liquids might require special handling or be banned entirely from air freight.
Check our guide on restricted goods if you are planning to buy more than just standard vinyl figures. It’s better to be safe than to have your mischievous monster stuck in a warehouse!
Final Verdict
Buying Labubu from the US isn't the "shipping nightmare" people make it out to be. By utilizing a proxy shopping service and a freight forwarder, you can access a wider variety of stock and often save money compared to local Taiwan prices. So, the next time a new Labubu series drops and the Taiwan site crashes, you know exactly what to do. Happy hunting!
