The 2026 Labubu Craze: Why the Hype is Still Growing
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 monster with serrated teeth created by Kasing Lung—is more than just a toy. It is a cultural phenomenon. As we move through 2026, the demand for these vinyl figures and plush charms has reached a fever pitch in Hong Kong. However, with high demand comes the inevitable price surge. Local resellers and specialized toy shops often mark up these items by 50% to 200% above their original retail price.
For the savvy collector in Hong Kong, there is a better way. By shifting your gaze toward the United States market, you can bypass the local 'scalper tax' and secure authentic pieces at much more reasonable prices. This guide will show you exactly how to navigate the US market and save your hard-earned money.
The Money-Saving Secret: Why Buy Labubu from the US?
You might wonder why shipping a toy from halfway across the world would be cheaper than buying it locally. The answer lies in market saturation and retail pricing. In the US, major retailers like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and even larger platforms like NTWRK often stock Labubu releases at standard MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price). While Hong Kong stores might sell out in minutes, US inventory often lasts longer, and the base price is frequently lower than the secondary market prices found in HK.
Furthermore, when you use a reliable package forwarder like comGateway, you can take advantage of sales tax exemptions. By shipping your US purchases to a tax-free warehouse address (like those in Oregon), you immediately save up to 10% that would otherwise be added at the US checkout. This 'Money Saver' strategy is the key to building a massive collection without breaking the bank.
Where to Shop for Labubu in the USA
To maximize your savings, you need to know where the stock is. Here are the top US-based destinations for Labubu hunters in 2026:
- Pop Mart US Official Store: The primary source for all new releases, including the latest blind box series and limited edition mega figures.
- Mindzai: A reputable designer toy boutique that often carries stock that sells out elsewhere.
- NTWRK: A livestream shopping app frequently hosting exclusive drops for the US market.
- StrangeCat Toys: A favorite among collectors for rare finds and pre-orders.
Check out our guide on how to expand your search: Read more: Stop Believing You Can Only Find Rare Labubu Figures in Asia.
How to Ship Your Labubu to Hong Kong
Most US retailers do not offer direct international shipping to Hong Kong, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively expensive. This is where a package forwarder becomes essential. By using a US-based shipping address provided by comGateway, you can shop at any US store as if you lived there.
Once your Labubu figures arrive at the US warehouse, you can consolidate multiple orders into one box. Consolidation is a major money-saver because it significantly reduces the international shipping weight and base fees compared to shipping items individually. Before you commit to a purchase, it is a smart move to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. This ensures there are no surprises and that your total landed cost remains lower than local HK prices.
Overcoming Checkout Hurdles
Sometimes, US online stores can be picky about non-US credit cards or billing addresses. If you find yourself unable to complete a purchase on a US site, don't worry. You can use the BuyForMe service. With this assisted purchase option, the forwarding experts handle the buying process for you, ensuring you don't miss out on a limited-edition Labubu drop due to payment errors.
What Hong Kong Collectors Need to Know About Imports
Hong Kong is a free port, which is great news for toy collectors. Generally, there are no duties or taxes on toys imported for personal use. However, you should always stay informed about logistics. For instance, while Labubu figures are perfectly safe to ship, you should always double-check the list of prohibited items or restricted goods to ensure any accessories or related lifestyle products (like those containing batteries or liquids) are allowed.
If you have specific questions about how the forwarding process works, the FAQ section is a great help center for beginners. It covers everything from storage limits to insurance for your high-value collectibles.
Advanced Strategies for Serious Collectors
If you are looking for more than just the standard releases—perhaps the rare 1000% Space Molly x Labubu or limited artist collaborations—you need to level up your game. US-based 'Drop' culture is different from Hong Kong's. You might also like to read our advanced guide, Read more: Mastering the Labubu Hunt: Advanced Strategies for Sourcing Rare US Releases from Hong Kong.
Estimated Cost Comparison (2026 Prices)
| Item | HK Resale Price (Est.) | US Retail Price (Est.) | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labubu Blind Box | HKD 180 - 250 | HKD 110 (USD 14) | ~40% - 55% |
| Labubu Plush Charm | HKD 450 - 600 | HKD 235 (USD 30) | ~50% - 60% |
| 100% Vinyl Figure | HKD 350+ | HKD 155 (USD 20) | ~55% |
As the table shows, even after adding a small shipping fee, the savings remain substantial—especially if you buy in bulk or with friends to share the shipping costs.
Conclusion
Collecting Labubu in 2026 doesn't have to be a financial burden. By leveraging the US market, utilizing a tax-free warehouse, and consolidating your shipments, you can enjoy the thrill of the hunt without the sting of inflated local prices. Start your US shopping journey today and bring home those elusive monsters for a fraction of the cost!
