The Labubu Fever: Why Everyone is Obsessed in 2026
If you have been anywhere on social media lately, you know that Labubu is the undisputed king of art toys. Created by Kasing Lung and brought to life by Pop Mart, this mischievous monster with serrated teeth has captured the hearts of collectors worldwide. In 2026, the hype has reached a fever pitch, largely driven by high-profile celebrity sightings and limited-edition releases that sell out in seconds.
For fans living in China, getting your hands on a specific Labubu series can be a nightmare. Local drops are often botted or involve long queues, leading many to turn to the secondary market where prices are inflated. However, there is a shortcut: shopping directly from US retailers. US-based stores often have different stock allocations, giving you a second chance at those elusive 'The Monsters' series releases.
Why Shop for Labubu in the US?
While Pop Mart is a global brand, regional exclusives are common. US retailers like Mindzai, various boutique designer toy shops, and even the official Pop Mart US webstore often feature stock that has already disappeared from Asian shelves. The challenge for shoppers in China is that many of these US stores do not offer direct international shipping, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high.
This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes your secret weapon. Instead of fighting for crumbs in local markets, you can have your US purchases sent to a tax-free US address and then forwarded straight to your doorstep in China.
The Easy 3-Step Shortcut to Buying Labubu
If you want the maximum reward with minimum effort, follow this simple workflow:
- Step 1: Get Your US Address. Sign up for a free account to get your own US shipping address. This allows you to shop at any US retailer as if you were living there.
- Step 2: Shop the Drops. Visit US toy retailers and checkout using your new US address. Pro tip: Look for 'Tax-Free' states to save even more on the initial purchase.
- Step 3: Forward to China. Once your Labubu arrives at the warehouse, you can manage your shipment, consolidate multiple orders, and send them to China.
Before you commit, it is always wise to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. This ensures there are no surprises when your vinyl friends are ready to fly across the ocean.
Managing Costs and Customs
We know that shipping fees can add up, especially for heavy collectors. You can check the latest international shipping rates to plan your budget accordingly. For those who plan on building a massive collection throughout 2026, looking into Prime membership benefits can offer significant discounts on shipping fees and consolidated storage options.
When importing to China, you should also be aware of import duties and customs tax. Generally, toys fall under specific tariff categories in China. Keeping your shipment value within personal use limits can often simplify the process, but always stay updated on the latest regulations to avoid delays.
Expert Tips for the Serious Collector
If you are looking for more than just a standard blind box and want the high-value 1000% figures or rare collaborations, you need a more advanced strategy. Check out these specialized guides to stay ahead of the curve:
- Read more: The Insider Playbook for Sourcing Rare Labubu Drops Directly from US Retailers
- Read more: Mastering the Labubu Market: Advanced Strategies for Sourcing Exclusive US Drops from China
Final Thoughts
Collecting Labubu should be fun, not a logistical headache. By leveraging a US forwarding service, you bypass the local scarcity and gain access to a global inventory. If you have more questions about how the process works, the FAQ section at the help center is a great resource for first-time international shoppers. Happy hunting, and may your next blind box contain a Secret!
