The Truth About the Labubu Craze in 2026
If you have walked through the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui or scrolled through your social media feed lately, you know that Labubu—the mischievous, serrated-toothed monster created by Kasing Lung—is more than just a trend; it is a cultural phenomenon. As we move into early 2026, the demand for these vinyl art toys has reached a fever pitch. However, a common misconception among Hong Kong collectors is that the rarest editions and the newest drops are only available locally or within the Asian market.
The reality is quite the opposite. While Labubu originated in the East, the United States has become a massive hub for exclusive collaborations and boutique toy releases that never even touch the shelves in Hong Kong. If you are tired of seeing 'Sold Out' signs at local Pop Mart outlets, it is time to look toward the US market. But how do you navigate international shopping without the headache? That is where a reliable package forwarder comes into play.
Why the US Market is a Goldmine for Labubu Collectors
By 2026, the US designer toy scene has expanded significantly. Retailers like Mindzai, Myplasticheart, and even the official Pop Mart US webstore often stock inventory that is separate from the Asian allocation. This means that while a specific blind box series might be sold out in Mong Kok, it could still be sitting in a warehouse in Oregon or Delaware.
Furthermore, US-based art conventions often release limited-edition colorways. For a collector in Hong Kong, missing out on these because of geographic restrictions is frustrating. Fortunately, you can bridge this gap by using shipping from USA to Hong Kong services, allowing you to shop like a US resident and have your treasures delivered straight to your door.
How to Buy Labubu from US Stores
Shopping from the US is straightforward once you have a US shipping address provided by comGateway. Here is a simple step-by-step process:
- Find Your Retailer: Visit sites like Pop Mart US, Strange Cat Toys, or even eBay for vintage 2024-2025 releases.
- Use Your US Address: At checkout, enter your dedicated US warehouse address instead of your Hong Kong home address.
- Consolidate and Ship: Once your Labubu arrives at the warehouse, you can combine it with other US purchases to save on costs.
Before you hit that 'buy' button, it is always a good idea to estimate shipping cost using an online tool. This ensures there are no surprises when it comes time to bring your new friend home.
Navigating Shipping and Customs for Hong Kong
One of the biggest advantages of living in Hong Kong is the relatively straightforward import process. However, many shoppers still worry about hidden fees. When importing toys, you should check our guide on import duties to understand how Hong Kong’s tax-free status on most consumer goods benefits you. Unlike many other regions, HK collectors usually do not have to worry about a GST or VAT, making international shopping incredibly cost-effective.
However, safety and regulations still apply. While vinyl toys are generally safe to ship, some limited edition sets might include accessories or electronics that fall under specific categories. Check the prohibited items list to ensure your specific Labubu model doesn't contain restricted materials like certain types of batteries or liquids.
Maximizing Your Collection Budget
Collecting can be an expensive hobby, especially when dealing with international shipping. To get the most value, you should compare international shipping rates frequently. Prices can fluctuate based on fuel surcharges and seasonal demand in 2026.
If you are a serious collector planning multiple hauls throughout the year, you might want to look into Prime membership benefits. These memberships often provide discounted shipping rates, repackaging services that reduce the volumetric weight of your parcels, and priority processing—essential for ensuring your rare Labubu figures spend as little time in transit as possible.
Final Thoughts: Don't Let Borders Limit Your Collection
The myth that Labubu is an 'Asia-only' obsession is officially busted. In 2026, the most successful collectors are those who shop globally. By tapping into the US market, you gain access to a wider variety of stock, exclusive US releases, and often, better pricing during American holiday sales. With the right logistics partner, the distance between a US warehouse and your display shelf in Hong Kong is shorter than you think. Start exploring US toy retailers today and complete your Labubu family with those hard-to-find pieces you thought were out of reach.
