The Hidden Gem of Labubu Collecting: Why the US Market is Your Best Bet
In 2026, the obsession with Labubu has reached a fever pitch in Malaysia. From the streets of Kuala Lumpur to the malls of Penang, these mischievous, serrated-toothed monsters from Kasing Lung’s 'The Monsters' series are the must-have items of the year. However, if you have tried to secure a blind box at a local POP MART or through a reseller lately, you already know the struggle: long queues, instant sell-outs, and exorbitant markups.
What many Malaysian collectors haven't realized yet is the 'hidden gem' strategy: sourcing Labubu directly from the United States. While local stock disappears in minutes, US-based retailers often maintain a different inventory cycle, offering a second chance at those elusive figures. Read more: Stop Believing You Can Only Find Labubu in Local Stores: The Truth About US Stock and Shipping to understand why the US market remains a goldmine for dedicated collectors.
Why is Everyone Obsessed with Labubu?
The hype surrounding Labubu isn't just about the toy itself; it’s about the culture of blind boxes and the thrill of the hunt. With their unique aesthetic—blending a bit of monster-like edge with undeniable cuteness—Labubus have become a status symbol among Gen Z and millennial collectors. Read more: Why is everyone obsessed with Labubu and how can I get it in Malaysia? for a deeper dive into the cultural phenomenon that has taken the world by storm in 2026.
How to Buy Labubu from US Stores
Finding Labubu in the US is easier than you might think if you know where to look. Major retailers like the official POP MART US website, Mindzai, and specialized designer toy boutiques often stock the latest series. However, many of these stores do not offer direct shipping to Malaysia, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive.
To navigate this, you can follow a simple process. Check our guide on Read more: A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Labubu from US Stores and Shipping to Malaysia. If you encounter a US store that doesn't accept Malaysian credit cards, don't worry. You can use a BuyForMe service where a professional shopper handles the purchase on your behalf, ensuring you don't miss out on limited-edition drops.
Shipping Your Labubu to Malaysia Safely
Once you’ve secured your vinyl figures, the next step is getting them to your doorstep in Malaysia. This is where a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes essential. By using a US-based shipping address, you can shop from any American retailer as if you lived there.
Before you check out, it’s always a good idea to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight and dimensions of your haul. If you are a frequent shopper, you might want to look into Prime membership benefits, which can offer significant discounts on international shipping rates and free insurance for your precious cargo.
Important Import Considerations for Malaysia
When shipping items into Malaysia in 2026, there are a few local regulations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth delivery:
- De Minimis Value: Currently, goods with a total value (including shipping) below RM500 typically do not incur import duties, though SST may still apply.
- Restricted Items: While vinyl toys are generally safe, always check the list of prohibited items or restricted goods to ensure your specific items don't violate any local customs laws.
- Consolidation: If you are buying multiple Labubus from different US sellers, use your forwarder's consolidation service to combine them into one box, saving you up to 80% on shipping costs.
Summary of Shipping Labubu from the US
| Step | Action | Platform/Tool |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Find Stock | POP MART US / Mindzai |
| 2 | Purchase | Use assisted purchase if needed |
| 3 | Ship to US Address | Provided by comGateway |
| 4 | Calculate Costs | shipping calculator |
| 5 | Receive in Malaysia | Doorstep delivery via DHL/FedEx |
By looking toward the US market, you are no longer limited by the stock levels at your local mall. Start your 2026 Labubu collection journey today by tapping into the underrated inventory of American retailers and using a trusted forwarding partner to bring them home.