Table of Contents
- Why Labubu is the Must-Have Collectible of 2026
- Where to Find Authentic Labubu in the US
- The Fastest Way to Ship from the US to China
- Overcoming Payment Hurdles with Ease
- Navigating China's Import Regulations and Taxes
- Your Step-by-Step Guide to Shopping Labubu
- How to Maximize Your Savings on Shipping
Why Labubu is the Must-Have Collectible of 2026
As we move through January 2026, the craze surrounding Labubu—the mischievous, sharp-toothed monster created by Kasing Lung—shows no signs of slowing down. What started as a niche art toy has exploded into a global phenomenon, fueled largely by high-profile celebrity endorsements and the massive trend of "blind box" culture. For collectors in China, the demand often outstrips local supply, leading many to look toward the US market where exclusive drops and different inventory levels offer a better chance at snagging that rare "Secret" figure.
The appeal of Labubu lies in its unique blend of monster-like features and endearing expressions. In 2026, the brand has expanded into even more high-fashion collaborations and limited-edition vinyl releases that sell out in seconds. If you are looking to stay ahead of the curve, shopping directly from US retailers is often the most efficient way to secure items that are already sold out on domestic Chinese platforms.
Where to Find Authentic Labubu in the US
To ensure you are getting an authentic product rather than a counterfeit, you must stick to reputable US retailers. Pop Mart’s US official store is the primary destination, but other specialty retailers like NTWRK, Mindzai, and even high-end department stores frequently host exclusive Labubu releases. Because these stores often do not offer direct international shipping to China—or if they do, it is prohibitively expensive—smart shoppers use a reliable package forwarder to manage their deliveries.
Check our guide on The Essential Checklist for Snagging Authentic Labubu Drops from the US to China to make sure you are prepared for the next big release.
The Fastest Way to Ship from the US to China
When it comes to high-value collectibles, speed and safety are paramount. Using comGateway allows you to have a dedicated US tax-free address. This means when you shop at US stores, you can send your Labubu hauls to a warehouse in a sales-tax-free state (like Oregon), saving you up to 10% immediately at checkout.
Before you commit to a purchase, it is always wise to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping costs. This tool helps you plan your budget effectively, ensuring that your monster-sized haul doesn't come with monster-sized shipping surprises. For those who want the absolute fastest turnaround, choosing express shipping options through your forwarder can get your package from the US warehouse to your door in China in as little as 3-5 business days.
You might also like to read: How to Secure the Latest Labubu Drops from the US to China in 2026.
Overcoming Payment Hurdles with Ease
One common frustration for Chinese collectors shopping in the US is the "payment rejected" screen. Many US retailers only accept credit cards with a US billing address. If you find yourself stuck at the checkout page, the BuyForMe service is your best friend. With this assisted purchase option, the forwarder buys the item on your behalf using their own US payment methods, ensuring you never miss a limited drop due to regional credit card restrictions.
Check our guide on The Quick Cheat Sheet for Buying Authentic US Labubu Drops from China for more tips on navigating US checkout systems.
Navigating China's Import Regulations and Taxes
Shipping toys and collectibles into China requires an understanding of customs regulations. In 2026, China continues to maintain specific thresholds for personal postal articles. It is essential to be aware of import duties and how they are calculated based on the declared value of your Labubu figures. Generally, if the total value is under the personal limit, you may be subject to a simplified tax rate, but exceeding these limits might require formal customs entry.
Additionally, always ensure that your items are not on the list of prohibited items. While vinyl toys are generally safe, certain accessories or electronic components sometimes found in high-tech collectibles might have restrictions. Being informed about customs tax will help you avoid unexpected delays at the border.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Order
Ready to start? Here is a simplified how it works guide to getting your Labubu home:
- Sign Up: Create an account with a forwarder to get your free US shipping address.
- Shop: Visit US toy retailers and use your new US address at checkout.
- Notify: Once your Labubu arrives at the warehouse, you will be notified to declare the value and select your shipping speed.
- Consolidate: If you bought from multiple stores, wait for all items to arrive and consolidate them into one box to save on international shipping fees.
- Ship: Pay for the international shipping and wait for your package to arrive in China.
How to Maximize Your Savings on Shipping
Collectors who plan on making multiple purchases throughout 2026 should consider the Prime membership benefits offered by comGateway. Membership often includes discounted shipping rates, longer free storage periods at the warehouse, and priority processing. This is especially useful for Labubu fans who participate in multiple "blind box" drops and want to wait for several items to arrive before shipping them all to China at once.
By following this streamlined approach, you can circumvent the local markups and stock shortages in China, ensuring your collection stays up-to-date with the latest US trends. Happy collecting!
