The 2026 Labubu Craze: Why Everyone is Obsessed
If you have spent any time on social media recently, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, serrated-tooth grin of Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung, this character from the 'The Monsters' series has transcended its designer toy origins to become a global cultural phenomenon. In 2026, the hype has reached a fever pitch, with collectors in Taiwan finding it increasingly difficult to get their hands on new releases due to instant sell-outs and high resale markups.
While many collectors focus solely on Asian markets, savvy enthusiasts are looking toward the United States. The US market often receives different stock allocations and exclusive colorways that aren't as instantly depleted as those in Taipei or Taichung. Check our guide on Read more: Stop Believing the Myth That You Can Only Find Rare Labubu Figures in Asia to understand why the American market is currently a goldmine for collectors.
Why Buying from the USA is Your Secret Weapon
In 2026, the strategy for serious collectors has shifted. Because the US has a massive variety of boutique toy retailers and official flagship stores like Pop Mart US, the inventory levels often fluctuate differently than in Asia. This means that while a specific blind box series might be sold out across Taiwan, it could still be sitting on the shelves of a store in California or New York.
You might also like to Read more: Why Everyone in Taiwan is Sourcing Labubu from the US and How You Can Too. This trend is driven by the desire for authenticity and the chance to snag limited editions that are US-exclusives.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Buying from US Stores
Shopping from US-based retailers is simpler than you might think. Many stores do not offer direct international shipping, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. By using comGateway, you are provided with a US shipping address that you can use at checkout on any American website.
Here is a quick step-by-step guide on how it works:
- Sign Up: Register for a free account to get your unique US address.
- Shop: Browse US retailers like Pop Mart, Mindzai, or even eBay for rare finds.
- Checkout: Use your comGateway US address as the shipping destination.
- Ship to Taiwan: Once your Labubu arrives at the warehouse, notify the team to ship it to your home in Taiwan.
Managing Shipping Costs and Logistics
One of the biggest concerns for collectors in Taiwan is the cost of international delivery. To avoid any surprises, it is highly recommended to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight and dimensions of your toy haul. Knowing the international shipping rates upfront allows you to budget effectively for your collection.
If you are a frequent shopper, you should look into Prime membership benefits. Members often get access to discounted shipping fees and better consolidation options, which is perfect if you are buying multiple blind boxes from different sellers and want to ship them all in one box to save money.
Localization: Shipping from the USA to Taiwan
When shipping from USA to Taiwan, there are a few local regulations to keep in mind for 2026. Taiwan’s Customs Administration requires all express shipments to be cleared through the EZ WAY app. Ensure your name and phone number on your comGateway account match your EZ WAY registration to ensure a smooth delivery process.
| Topic | Details for Taiwan Collectors |
|---|---|
| Import Duty | De minimis threshold is TWD 2,000. |
| Frequency | Limit of 6 tax-free shipments per half-year. |
| App Required | EZ WAY (Real-name authentication). |
For more specific details on prohibited items or specialized packaging for fragile vinyl figures, you can visit the FAQ or contact the help center for 24/7 support. They can provide guidance on how to ensure your Labubu arrives in pristine condition.
Final Tips for Labubu Hunters
The world of designer toys moves fast. To stay ahead in 2026, set up alerts for US retailers and have your shipping from USA to Taiwan strategy ready to go. By utilizing a US address, you open up a world of inventory that your local competitors simply cannot access. Happy hunting, and may your next blind box contain that elusive Secret figure!
