Table of Contents
- The Labubu Fever of 2026: Why Taiwan is Obsessed
- The Great Price Divide: US vs. Taiwan Markups
- Hunting for Labubu in the USA
- The Logistics: Getting Your Monsters to Taiwan
- What to Do if US Stores Won't Accept Your Card
- Navigating Taiwan Customs and Restricted Goods
- Final Verdict: Is the US Import Worth It?
The Labubu Fever of 2026: Why Taiwan is Obsessed
Walking through the streets of Ximending or browsing through Taipei's trendiest malls in 2026, one face is unmistakable: the mischievous, serrated-tooth grin of Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung as part of "The Monsters" series, Labubu has transcended the "blind box" niche to become a high-fashion accessory and a cultural phenomenon in Taiwan. Whether it’s the plush pendants hanging from designer handbags or the limited-edition vinyl figures adorning office desks, the demand is relentless.
However, popularity comes with a price—literally. In Taiwan, the scarcity of specific restocks and the high demand have led to a secondary market where prices are often double or triple the original retail value. For the savvy collector, looking across the Pacific to the United States isn't just an option; it’s a financial necessity.
The Great Price Divide: US vs. Taiwan Markups
Why are collectors in Taipei and Kaohsiung turning to US storefronts? It comes down to the "Monster Markup." While Pop Mart has a global presence, the inventory allocation and pricing structures vary significantly. In the US, retail prices for standard blind boxes and mega-sized figures often remain closer to the MSRP, whereas Taiwan’s retail landscape is heavily influenced by import overheads and aggressive scalping.
By purchasing directly from US retailers, you bypass the middleman. Even when you factor in the cost of international delivery, the total expenditure is frequently 20-30% lower than buying from local resellers. To see exactly how much you can save, you should estimate shipping cost using a shipping calculator before you pull the trigger on that rare Zimomo or Labubu plush.
Hunting for Labubu in the USA
The first step in your international haul is knowing where to look. While Pop Mart’s official US website is the primary destination, other retailers like Mindzai, StrangeCat Toys, and even major platforms like Amazon US often stock exclusive colorways that never reach Taiwan's shores.
Shopping in the US allows you to participate in drops that happen during the US time zone, which often means less competition from the massive Asian collector base. However, most of these US-based shops do not offer direct international shipping to Taiwan, or if they do, the rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes your best friend. They provide you with a US sales-tax-free address, allowing you to shop like a local and consolidate your packages to save on bulk shipping.
The Logistics: Getting Your Monsters to Taiwan
Once your Labubu items arrive at your US suite, the process of shipping from USA to Taiwan is remarkably straightforward. 2026 has seen even faster transit times, with express options typically delivering from the US to Taiwan in just 3 to 5 business days.
When you use a forwarder, you gain control over the shipping speed and the way your items are packed. Since Labubu boxes (especially the larger 400% or 1000% sizes) can be bulky, consolidation is key. By combining multiple orders into one shipment, you reduce the "first half-pound" premium charged by carriers, effectively lowering the cost per figure.
What to Do if US Stores Won't Accept Your Card
One common hurdle for Taiwan-based collectors is the "International Credit Card" block. Some US retailers are notoriously picky about billing addresses, often cancelling orders placed with non-US credit cards. If you find yourself stuck at the checkout screen, don't panic.
You can utilize the BuyForMe service for an assisted purchase. With this service, the forwarder buys the item on your behalf using a US-based payment method, ensuring you don't miss out on limited-edition drops just because your credit card wasn't issued in North America. It’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that your Labubu is secured.
Navigating Taiwan Customs and Restricted Goods
Before you ship, it is vital to understand Taiwan's import regulations. As of 2026, the de minimis threshold for tax-free imports remains at NT$2,000. If your Labubu haul exceeds this value, you may be subject to import duties and VAT. Additionally, ensure you have the EZ WAY (易利委) app set up and authenticated to facilitate smooth customs clearance.
Check our guide on prohibited items to ensure your package doesn't contain any restricted goods. While vinyl toys are generally safe, certain items like cleaning kits with flammable liquids or electronics with specific battery types might require special handling. Always verify your items against the prohibited items list to avoid delays at the border.
Final Verdict: Is the US Import Worth It?
If you are a casual fan looking for a single blind box, buying locally in Taiwan is probably easier. But if you are a serious collector looking for 2026's rarest Labubu iterations or building a massive display, the US market is your golden ticket. The combination of lower retail prices, access to US-exclusive stock, and the efficiency of comGateway makes it the smartest way to grow your collection without emptying your bank account.
Stop letting local resellers dictate the price of your hobby. Take control, shop the US, and bring your favorite monsters home for less!
