- Why Labubu is the Global Sensation of 2026
- The Challenge for Hong Kong Collectors
- Where to Find Authentic Labubu in the US
- Navigating US-Only Payment Barriers
- Shipping Your Labubu Haul to Hong Kong
- Calculating Your 2026 Shipping Costs
- Hong Kong Import Guidelines and Safety
- Final Checklist for Your Labubu Purchase
Why Labubu is the Global Sensation of 2026
As we move through January 2026, the art toy world has been completely dominated by one mischievous monster: Labubu. Created by Kasing Lung, this character from the "The Monsters" series has transcended its niche origins to become a mainstream lifestyle icon. In 2026, the demand for limited-edition vinyl figures and plush pendants has reached a fever pitch, driven by social media trends and celebrity endorsements that have made Labubu the must-have accessory for bags and display shelves alike.
For collectors in Hong Kong, the struggle is real. Local stock often sells out in seconds, and the secondary market prices can be astronomical. This is why many savvy fans are turning their gaze toward the United States, where exclusive drops and different inventory cycles provide a fresh opportunity to snag these elusive collectibles at retail prices. Check our guide on Read more: Why Labubu is the Must-Have Collectible of 2026 and How to Secure Authentic Drops from the US.
The Challenge for Hong Kong Collectors
While Hong Kong is a hub for art toys, the sheer volume of global demand means that the regional allocation is never enough. US-based retailers often receive exclusive colorways or "blind box" series that aren't available in Asia. However, the hurdle for Hong Kong residents remains the same: many US online stores do not offer international shipping, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This is where a strategic approach to cross-border shopping becomes essential.
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 retailers. Major platforms like Pop Mart Global (US site), Mindzai, and specialized designer toy boutiques in cities like Los Angeles and New York are your best bets. These stores frequently update their inventory, but they often require a US shipping address to complete a purchase.
You might also like: Read more: The Cheat Sheet for Scoring Authentic Labubu from US Stores to Hong Kong.
Navigating US-Only Payment Barriers
One common frustration for Hong Kong shoppers is the "US credit card only" policy enforced by some retailers. If your transaction is repeatedly declined, don't lose hope. You can utilize the BuyForMe service. This assisted purchase option allows a professional shopper to buy the item on your behalf using a local US payment method, ensuring you don't miss out on a lightning-fast drop.
Shipping Your Labubu Haul to Hong Kong
Once you've secured your Labubu, you need a way to get it home. Using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway provides you with a dedicated US tax-free shipping address. This address acts as your personal hub in the States; the store ships your Labubu there, and then it is forwarded directly to your doorstep in Hong Kong.
Calculating Your 2026 Shipping Costs
Before you commit to a large haul, it is wise to budget for the journey. Shipping fees are typically based on weight and dimensions. You can use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the size of the Labubu boxes. To get a better sense of the overall market, you should also review the current international shipping rates to see how different shipping fees might apply to your specific package size.
Hong Kong Import Guidelines and Safety
Hong Kong is famous for being a free port, which is great news for collectors. Generally, you won't have to worry about heavy import duties or GST/VAT on toy imports. However, it is always a good practice to stay updated on customs tax regulations to avoid any surprises at the border.
Furthermore, ensure that your package does not contain any prohibited items. While Labubu figures themselves are safe, some bundles might include restricted liquids (like cleaning kits) or batteries that are classified as restricted goods. Always check the contents of your order against the forwarder's guidelines.
Check our guide on: Read more: Read This Before You Order Your Next Labubu from the US to Hong Kong.
Final Checklist for Your Labubu Purchase
To summarize your 2026 shopping strategy, follow this quick checklist:
- Verify Authenticity: Only shop at authorized US retailers.
- Use a Forwarder: Set up your comGateway account to get your US address.
- Check Dimensions: Use the shipping calculator to avoid surprises.
- Consolidate: If buying multiple Labubus, wait for them all to arrive at the US warehouse to save on shipping.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the latest drops and release calendars.
By following this cheat sheet, you can bypass the local markups in Hong Kong and build a world-class Labubu collection directly from the source. Happy hunting!
