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Understanding the Labubu Craze in 2026
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, serrated-tooth grin of Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung and popularized by Pop Mart, this eccentric elf from "The Monsters" collection has become the must-have accessory of 2026. What started as a niche designer toy has exploded into a mainstream obsession, with celebrities and influencers worldwide sporting Labubu pendants on their bags.
In Australia, the demand has far outpaced local supply. While flagship stores in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne try to keep up, the most coveted series—like the Macaron vinyl face plushies—sell out within minutes of hitting the shelves. This scarcity has led many Aussie collectors to look abroad, specifically toward the United States, where stock levels are often more robust and exclusive editions are more frequently released.
You might also like to Read more: 5 Reasons Labubu is the Biggest Toy Trend of 2026 and How to Buy Them in Australia to understand why this trend isn't slowing down anytime soon.
Why Australian Collectors are Turning to US Stores
The US market remains one of the largest hubs for designer toys. Major retailers and specialized boutiques in the States often receive larger allocations of new releases compared to the Oceania region. Furthermore, many US-based collectors trade or sell "blind box" duplicates on platforms that don't always offer direct international shipping to Australia.
Shopping from the US allows you to bypass the limited local inventory and access a wider variety of Labubu characters. However, the biggest hurdle is often the "US-only" shipping policy of many retailers. This is where using a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. By using a service like comGateway, you get a dedicated US address to use at checkout, effectively opening the doors to every American online store.
Check our guide on the process: Read more: The Easiest Way to Get Labubu Figures in Australia from US Stores.
The Secret to Seamless Shipping from the USA to Australia
Once you have secured your Labubu from a US retailer, the next step is getting it across the Pacific. Direct international shipping, if available, can be prohibitively expensive or notoriously slow. For the fastest and most cost-effective result, shipping from USA to Australia via a dedicated forwarding service is the preferred method for serious collectors.
When planning your purchase, it is wise to estimate shipping cost ahead of time. Factors like package weight and dimensions play a role, especially if you are buying the larger 400% or 1000% figures. You can use a shipping calculator to compare different shipping speeds and prices, ensuring there are no surprises when your haul arrives at the warehouse.
For more specific tips on the current market, Read more: The Easiest Way to Get Labubu Figures in Australia from US Stores Right Now.
Navigating Australian Import Duties and GST
As an Australian shopper, you need to be aware of the local tax laws. Since 2018, the Australian government has applied Goods and Services Tax (GST) to low-value imported goods (those valued at AUD $1,000 or less). While most package forwarders handle the logistical side, you should stay informed about import duties to avoid delays.
For high-end collector items or bulk orders exceeding AUD $1,000, additional customs tax or GST/VAT might be collected at the border. Keeping your receipts and accurate declarations is vital for a smooth clearance process. Understanding these regulations ensures that your Labubu doesn't get stuck in a customs warehouse just miles from your doorstep.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Labubu from the US
If you are ready to start your collection, follow this efficient workflow to get your items as quickly as possible:
- Step 1: Get your US Address: Sign up for a free account with a forwarder to receive your tax-free US shipping address.
- Step 2: Shop US Retailers: Visit sites like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, or even reputable sellers on eBay US. Enter your forwarder's address at checkout.
- Step 3: Notify and Consolidate: Once your Labubu arrives at the US warehouse, you can choose to ship it immediately or wait for other packages to arrive. Consolidating multiple boxes into one can significantly reduce your total shipping bill.
- Step 4: Ship to Australia: Choose your preferred courier (DHL, FedEx, etc.) based on the speed you need.
Prohibited Items and Shipping Safety
While Labubu figures are generally safe to ship, it is always a good idea to review the list of prohibited items before placing an order. This is particularly important if you are purchasing cleaning kits, certain adhesives for custom displays, or any associated electronic accessories that might contain lithium batteries.
Ensuring your items are not on the list of restricted goods will prevent your package from being flagged or returned. Most designer toys are made of PVC or vinyl, which are perfectly fine for international transit, but staying informed is part of being a savvy international shopper in 2026.
| Service Component | Benefit for Australian Users |
|---|---|
| Tax-Free Warehouse | Save on US Sales Tax at checkout. |
| Consolidation | Lower shipping costs by combining multiple Labubu orders. |
| Repackaging | Reduces dimensional weight to save money. |
By following this guide, you can bypass the local stock shortages and secure the latest Labubu releases with ease. Happy collecting!
