The Only Checklist You Need to Secure Pop Mart Star People and Ship to the UK

Why Pop Mart Star People is the Biggest Trend of 2026

As we move through January 2026, the designer toy world has been set ablaze by one specific collection: Pop Mart Star People. This series has transcended the typical "blind box" hype, becoming a legitimate cultural phenomenon across the United States. Combining celestial aesthetics with the high-quality craftsmanship Pop Mart is known for, these figures have become must-have items for collectors and home decor enthusiasts alike.

The trend is driven by a mix of scarcity and social media virality. Influencers across the globe are showcasing their "Star People" setups, but there is a catch—the most coveted limited-edition variants and specific collection sets are currently heavily focused on the US market. For fans living in the United Kingdom, getting your hands on these without paying exorbitant reseller prices requires a strategic approach.

The Challenge: Why US Stores Get the Best Drops

While Pop Mart has a global presence, the US often receives exclusive collaborations and earlier release windows for high-demand series like Star People. Many UK collectors find themselves staring at "Out of Stock" messages on local sites while US retailers still have inventory. Furthermore, some specialized US boutique shops carry exclusive colorways that never officially cross the Atlantic.

To bridge this gap, savvy UK shoppers are turning to cross-border shopping strategies. By using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway, you can shop US stores as if you lived there, ensuring you never miss a drop.

Step 1: Find a Reliable US Retailer

The first item on your checklist is identifying where to buy. The official Pop Mart US webstore is the obvious choice, but don't overlook major US retailers like NTWRK or specialized designer toy boutiques based in New York and California. These stores often stock the Star People series but may not offer direct international shipping to the UK, or if they do, the costs are often prohibitive.

Step 2: Get Your US Shipping Address

Most US retailers require a domestic shipping address. This is where comGateway comes in. When you sign up, you are provided with a dedicated US address at their warehouse. You use this address at the checkout of your favorite US toy stores. Once your Star People figures arrive at the warehouse, they can be consolidated and shipped to your doorstep in the UK.

Step 3: Calculate Your Total Landing Cost

Before you click "buy," you need to know exactly what you are paying. International shipping isn't just about the weight; it's about the dimensions and the destination. To avoid any surprises, use a shipping calculator to get an accurate estimate of what it will cost to move your package from the US to the UK.

You should also review the international shipping rates to see which courier service fits your budget and timeline. Whether you want express delivery for your rare Star People chase figure or a more economical standard option, knowing the fees upfront is essential for a successful haul.

Step 4: Navigate Payment Barriers with BuyForMe

One of the most frustrating hurdles for UK shoppers is the "US-only" credit card requirement. Some US retailers will automatically cancel orders if the billing address doesn't match a US zip code. If you encounter this while trying to secure a limited Star People release, don't panic.

You can use an BuyForMe service (also known as assisted purchase). With this service, the forwarder buys the item on your behalf using a US-based payment method, ensuring your order goes through even on the most restrictive websites.

Step 5: Understand UK Import Rules and VAT

Shipping to the UK in 2026 means you must be mindful of customs regulations. For most items imported from the US, you will be responsible for paying VAT (Value Added Tax) and potentially customs duties if the value exceeds certain thresholds.

• VAT: Generally 20% of the total value (including shipping costs).
• Duty: Usually applies to orders over £135.

Keeping your Star People collection within specific value brackets or consolidating multiple orders into one shipment can often help manage these costs more effectively.

Maximizing Your Savings with Membership Benefits

If you plan on becoming a frequent collector of Pop Mart or other US-exclusive brands, look into Prime membership benefits. Members often receive significant discounts on shipping rates, longer free storage periods at the warehouse, and discounted insurance for high-value items. Since the Star People series often releases new waves every few months, these savings can add up quickly over the course of the year.

By following this checklist, you can bypass the local stock shortages in the UK and secure the exact Pop Mart Star People figures you want directly from the source. Happy collecting!