- The 2026 Hype: Why Everyone Wants Pop Mart Star People
- Why Sourcing from US Stores is a Collector's Winning Move
- Where to Find Star People in the United States
- The Essential Guide to Shipping from USA to China
- Budgeting Your Haul: Fees and Weight
- Navigating China’s Import Duties and Taxes
- What to Do If a US Store Rejects Your Credit Card
- Final Thoughts for Chinese Collectors
The 2026 Hype: Why Everyone Wants Pop Mart Star People
As we move through early 2026, the designer toy world has been set ablaze by the Pop Mart Star People collection. While Pop Mart has its roots in Asia, this specific series has taken on a life of its own in the United States, featuring exclusive colorways and limited-edition figures that aren't always available on the Chinese mainland. The "Star People" aesthetic—a blend of retro-futurism and celestial whimsy—has resonated deeply with Gen Z collectors who value rarity and global design influences.
In 2026, collecting is no longer just about what is on your local shelf; it is about the global hunt. The Star People series represents a shift where US-based designers have collaborated with Pop Mart to create pieces that feel like a "hidden gem" for those willing to look beyond domestic apps like Tmall or Dewu.
Why Sourcing from US Stores is a Collector's Winning Move
You might wonder why a collector living in China would look toward the US for a brand that is headquartered in Beijing. The answer lies in market-specific exclusives. US retailers often receive "Western Market" variants of the Star People series that feature different textures, glow-in-the-dark elements, or even different "chase" ratios. Furthermore, during major US sales events in 2026, prices can often drop lower than the standard retail price in China, especially if you are buying in bulk.
Where to Find Star People in the United States
While the official Pop Mart US website is the obvious choice, many collectors find better luck with boutique designer toy shops based in New York or Los Angeles. Retailers like Mindzai, Strangecat Toys, and even larger platforms like Amazon US often have stock when domestic Chinese warehouses are sold out. Finding these items is the first step, but getting them to your doorstep in China requires a strategic approach to logistics.
The Essential Guide to Shipping from USA to China
Most US retailers do not offer direct international shipping to China, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively expensive and the tracking is unreliable. This is where a reliable package forwarder becomes your most valuable tool. By using a service like comGateway, you are provided with a US-based shipping address. You can send all your Star People purchases to this warehouse, where they can be consolidated into a single box to save on international freight.
When you are ready to send your treasures home, the process of shipping from USA to China is streamlined. This ensures that your fragile collectibles are handled with care and reach you in mint condition. If you have questions about the process, you can always visit the FAQ or help center for detailed guidance on how forwarding works.
Budgeting Your Haul: Fees and Weight
Before you go on a shopping spree, it is vital to understand the total cost of ownership. International shipping is calculated based on either actual weight or volumetric weight. To avoid any surprises, you should use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the dimensions of a standard Pop Mart blind box case.
For frequent collectors, looking into Prime membership benefits can be a game-changer. In 2026, membership perks often include discounted shipping rates and extended free storage at the warehouse, which is perfect if you are waiting for multiple Star People drops to arrive before shipping them all to China at once.
Navigating China’s Import Duties and Taxes
One of the most critical aspects of importing goods into China is understanding the General Administration of Customs (GAC) regulations. Designer toys are subject to specific tax brackets. You might also like our guide on understanding import duties, GST/VAT, and customs tax to ensure you aren't caught off guard by extra fees at the border.
Generally, for personal use, keeping your total shipment value within certain limits can simplify the clearance process. Always ensure your package forwarder provides accurate declarations to avoid delays in 2026's increasingly digital customs environment.
What to Do If a US Store Rejects Your Credit Card
A common hurdle for collectors in China is the "billing address mismatch." Many US online stores only accept credit cards issued in the United States. If you find yourself unable to complete a purchase for a rare Star People figure, you can utilize the BuyForMe service. This assisted purchase option allows the forwarder to buy the item on your behalf using a US payment method, ensuring you never miss out on a limited drop.
Final Thoughts for Chinese Collectors
The Pop Mart Star People series is more than just a toy; it's a testament to the global nature of 2026's pop culture. By looking toward the US market and utilizing a comGateway account, you can bypass local stock shortages and secure pieces that will be the envy of your local collector groups. Just remember to calculate your costs in advance and stay informed on the latest customs regulations to keep your hobby enjoyable and stress-free.
