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Why the 2026 Year of the Horse Collection is Iconic
It is officially 2026, and in the world of luxury eyewear, the Ray-Ban Year of the Horse Collection is taking center stage. Combining the rebellious spirit of the Aviator and Wayfarer with intricate gold detailing and subtle horse-motif engravings, this collection symbolizes strength and success. In China, these limited-edition pieces are disappearing from shelves faster than a stallion on a sprint, making it the must-have accessory for the Lunar New Year celebrations.
The 'Price Gap': Why Shopping in China is a Bad Bet
While the collection is available in Tier 1 cities across China, the price tag is enough to make any shopper balk. Between luxury markups and local distribution fees, the same pair of sunglasses that costs $180 USD in the United States can easily retail for over 2,200 CNY in Shanghai or Beijing. When you factor in the current exchange rates, you are essentially paying a 30-40% premium just for the convenience of local shopping. Smart shoppers are realizing that by using an international shipping service, they can secure these frames at the original US MSRP, often even during US-exclusive holiday sales.
Exclusive US Inventory
Beyond the price, US retailers like Nordstrom, Macy’s, and the official Ray-Ban US store often carry stock that never reaches the Asian market. If you want the specific polarized gradient lens that isn't available in local malls, shopping abroad is your only winning move.
How to Shop US Stores from China
The biggest hurdle for shoppers in China is that many US websites do not ship directly to international addresses, or if they do, the costs are astronomical. This is where comGateway comes in. By providing you with a tax-free US address, you can shop like a local. Simply enter your assigned US address at checkout, and your package will be delivered to a secure warehouse in Oregon before being sent to you.
If you encounter a store that doesn't accept Chinese credit cards, don't worry. You can use a proxy shopping service like "BuyForMe," where a dedicated assistant handles the purchase on your behalf. For a smooth experience, follow this step-by-step guide to setting up your account and starting your US shopping journey.
Mastering the Logistics: Your Freight Forwarder Advantage
When moving luxury goods across the globe, you need more than just a courier; you need a reliable freight forwarder. Utilizing a professional service ensures that your Ray-Bans are inspected and repacked to minimize the risk of damage during international shipping.
To plan your budget effectively, use the shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight of the eyewear. If you are planning to buy multiple pairs for friends or family, you can consolidate your orders to significantly reduce international shipping rates. For those who want the fastest delivery, options for DHL international shipping or FedEx international shipping are available, often arriving at your doorstep in China within 3 to 5 business days.
Pro Tip: If you plan on shopping from the US frequently in 2026, check out the Prime membership benefits. This can lead to even lower shipping fees and extended storage times at the warehouse.
Navigating China Import Tax and Customs
Every savvy cross-border shopper knows that import tax is a factor when bringing luxury goods into China. The General Administration of Customs (GACC) applies specific rates to eyewear. To avoid any surprises at the border, it is essential to understand how import duties are calculated for personal imports. Check our guide on import tax and customs regulations to see the current thresholds for 2026.
| Service Type | Average Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Express (FedEx/DHL) | 3-5 Days | High-value luxury items |
| Standard Air | 7-10 Days | General fashion apparel |
Final Verdict
Don't let the high prices in China rein you in. By utilizing a freight forwarder to shop the US market, you can secure the 2026 Ray-Ban Year of the Horse Collection for a fraction of the local cost. Saddle up, grab your tax-free address, and get ready to gallop through the new year in style!
