- Why the Pop Mart Star People Hype is Real
- Why Shop US Stores for Star People?
- The Easiest Way to Ship from the USA to the Philippines
- Calculate Your Shipping Costs Before You Buy
- Navigating Philippines Customs and Import Rules
- Restricted Goods and Prohibited Items to Keep in Mind
- A Quick Guide to Getting Your Pop Mart Today
Why the Pop Mart Star People Hype is Real
As we move through January 2026, the designer toy world has been taken by storm by one specific collection: the Pop Mart Star People. This series, known for its ethereal celestial designs and intricate cosmic detailing, has become the must-have item for collectors globally. In the Philippines, the demand has reached a fever pitch, with local enthusiasts searching for these elusive blind boxes to complete their displays.
The Star People series represents a shift in designer toy aesthetics, blending high-concept astronomical art with the classic Pop Mart charm. Whether it is the "Galactic Voyager" figure or the ultra-rare "Supernova" secret chase, the craftsmanship in this 2026 lineup is unparalleled. However, the popularity of the series has led to immediate sell-outs in local malls across Manila and Cebu, leaving many fans wondering where to turn next.
Why Shop US Stores for Star People?
While Pop Mart has a global presence, the US market often receives larger stock allocations and exclusive variants that aren't always available in Southeast Asia. Retailers like the official Pop Mart US webstore, Mindzai, and even major platforms like NTWRK frequently restock the Star People collection more often than local distributors. For a Filipino collector, shopping directly from the USA is often the only way to secure a full case of blind boxes without paying exorbitant secondary market prices.
Furthermore, US retailers often run seasonal promotions. Even in early 2026, we are seeing "New Year" bundles that include exclusive Star People accessories. By shopping from the source, you ensure authenticity and avoid the risk of counterfeit products that occasionally circulate in unverified local marketplaces.
The Easiest Way to Ship from the USA to the Philippines
The biggest hurdle for Filipino collectors is that many US-based toy retailers do not offer direct international shipping, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high. This is where using a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. By using a service like comGateway, you are provided with a US-based shipping address (typically in a tax-free state like Oregon). You can send your Star People hauls to this address, and they will handle the international leg of the journey for you.
When you choose shipping from USA to Philippines through a dedicated forwarder, you gain access to faster transit times and better handling. Since designer toys like Pop Mart figures are collectible items, ensuring they arrive with their original packaging intact is a priority. Professional forwarders offer consolidation services, allowing you to buy from multiple US stores and ship them all in one box to save on costs.
Calculate Your Shipping Costs Before You Buy
Budgeting is a crucial part of collecting. Before you hit the checkout button on a US website, it is wise to estimate shipping cost to ensure the total price fits your budget. Shipping rates are generally calculated based on the weight and dimensions of the package. Since Pop Mart blind boxes are relatively lightweight, you can often ship a large quantity without breaking the bank.
Using a shipping calculator allows you to play with different scenarios. For example, shipping a single blind box might not be as cost-effective as shipping a whole "case" of 12. By planning your shipment, you can maximize the value of every dollar spent on international freight.
Navigating Philippines Customs and Import Rules
One of the most common concerns for collectors in the Philippines is dealing with the Bureau of Customs (BOC). In 2026, the de minimis threshold remains a key factor. If your total shipment value (including insurance and freight) is under PHP 10,000, you are generally exempt from import duties and taxes. This is great news for Pop Mart fans, as most individual orders or small cases fall well under this limit.
However, if you are a serious collector or a reseller bringing in bulk quantities of Star People figures, you should check our guide on GST/VAT and customs tax. Understanding these regulations beforehand prevents your package from being held at the customs office and ensures a smooth delivery directly to your doorstep in the Philippines.
Restricted Goods and Prohibited Items to Keep in Mind
While vinyl toys are perfectly safe to ship, it is always a good idea to review the list of prohibited items before placing an order. Some collectors like to buy cleaning kits or specialized display cases that might contain aerosols or certain adhesives. These could be classified as restricted goods depending on the airline's safety policies. Always ensure your Star People order contains only permitted materials to avoid any shipping delays.
A Quick Guide to Getting Your Pop Mart Today
Ready to start your 2026 collection? Here is the fastest way to get it done:
- Sign Up: Create an account with a package forwarder to get your unique US shipping address.
- Shop: Visit your favorite US toy retailers and purchase your Pop Mart Star People figures. Use your US address at checkout.
- Notify: Once your items reach the US warehouse, you will receive a notification.
- Consolidate and Ship: If you have multiple orders, combine them to save money. Choose your preferred shipping speed to the Philippines.
- Unbox: Sit back and wait for your cosmic collectibles to arrive at your door!
By following this method, you bypass local stock shortages and ensure you are getting the latest 2026 releases at fair prices. Happy collecting!