- The Labubu Craze of 2026: Why Everyone is Obsessed
- The Swiss Market Trap: Fakes and Inflated Prices
- Securing Authentic Stock from US Retailers
- The Shipping Bottleneck: Why Direct Shipping Fails
- Using comGateway to Bypass Logistics Hurdles
- Swiss Customs, VAT, and Import Duty Realities
- Restricted Goods: What You Cannot Ship
- Maximizing Savings on Your Collectibles
The Labubu Craze of 2026: Why Everyone is Obsessed
It is January 2026, and the Labubu phenomenon has reached a fever pitch. What started as a niche collectible has transformed into a global cultural icon. Created by Kasing Lung, these mischievous monsters with their signature jagged teeth have become the must-have accessory for fashionistas and toy collectors alike. In the United States, limited edition drops at major retailers sell out in seconds, creating a massive secondary market. For collectors in Switzerland, keeping up with these trends is difficult, as local stock is often non-existent or outdated.
The Swiss Market Trap: Fakes and Inflated Prices
If you are trying to buy Labubu figures through local Swiss classifieds or unverified third-party sellers, you are likely walking into a trap. The market is currently flooded with high-quality counterfeits that look real but hold zero resale value. Furthermore, Swiss boutique shops that do manage to secure stock often mark up the prices by 200% or more. To get the real deal at the original retail price, you must look toward the US market. However, simply clicking "buy" on a US website is not enough; without a plan, your package could be lost, damaged, or rejected at the border.
Securing Authentic Stock from US Retailers
US-based stores like Pop Mart US, specialized toy boutiques, and even major platforms like eBay (from verified top-rated sellers) are the primary sources for authentic Labubu releases. The challenge? Many of these retailers do not ship to Switzerland, or if they do, the costs are astronomical. For many Swiss fans, the biggest hurdle is the payment gateway. Some US stores refuse international credit cards. If you find yourself stuck at the checkout, the BuyForMe service is essential. This assisted purchase feature allows a local agent to buy the item for you, ensuring you don't miss out on limited 2026 drops.
The Shipping Bottleneck: Why Direct Shipping Fails
Direct international shipping is often a nightmare for Swiss residents. You face lack of tracking, rough handling, and no way to consolidate multiple orders. If you are buying a Labubu plush, a vinyl figure, and perhaps some themed apparel from different stores, paying for three separate international shipments to Zurich or Geneva is a financial disaster. This is where a reliable package forwarder becomes mandatory. By using a US-based shipping address, you can collect all your items in one place before sending them across the Atlantic.
Using comGateway to Bypass Logistics Hurdles
To successfully navigate the 2026 Labubu craze, you need a structured approach. First, sign up for a US shipping address. This allows you to shop at any US retailer as if you lived there. If you are unfamiliar with the process, this step-by-step guide explains how to manage your packages from the warehouse to your doorstep. Using comGateway gives you access to a tax-free Oregon warehouse, meaning you save on US sales tax—money that can be better spent on more collectibles.
Swiss Customs, VAT, and Import Duty Realities
Switzerland is not part of the EU, which means our import rules are unique. As of 2026, the Swiss Federal Customs Administration is strict about declarations. If you undervalue your Labubu shipment to save on taxes, you risk a heavy fine and the seizure of your package. You will generally be charged 8.1% VAT on the total value (including shipping costs) if the tax amount exceeds 5 CHF. To avoid surprises at your door, use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost and potential fees beforehand. Knowing your international shipping rates upfront prevents the "customs shock" that many first-time importers experience.
Restricted Goods: What You Cannot Ship
While Labubu vinyl figures are perfectly safe to ship, be careful with associated merchandise. Are you buying a Labubu-themed battery pack or cleaning kits that contain flammable liquids? These could be flagged. Before you finalize your cart, check the list of prohibited items. Shipping restricted goods can lead to your entire console being held at the warehouse or destroyed by customs officials. Don't let a small accessory ruin your entire shipment.
Maximizing Savings on Your Collectibles
For the serious Labubu hunter, shipping one item at a time is the most expensive way to operate. Consolidation is the key. By combining multiple packages into one box, you significantly reduce the volumetric weight and cost. If you plan on making multiple purchases throughout 2026, exploring Prime membership benefits can offer even deeper discounts on shipping fees and extended storage times. This allows you to wait for several limited-edition drops to arrive at the warehouse before shipping them to Switzerland in one secure, tracked package.
The bottom line: If you ignore the logistics of importing from the US, you will either overpay for a fake or lose your money to customs complications. Be smart, use a forwarder, and get your authentic Labubu home safely.