The Swiss Alp-ha Blueprint: Building a Labubu Empire with US-Grade Foundations

The Monster Phenomenon: Why Labubu is the 2026 Must-Have

If you have walked through the streets of Geneva or scrolled through Swiss social media lately, you have likely seen those mischievous, serrated teeth and large, expressive eyes staring back at you. We are, of course, talking about Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung and brought to life by Pop Mart, this character from the "The Monsters" series has transcended being a mere vinyl toy to become a full-blown cultural icon in 2026.

Why the hype? It is the perfect blend of "ugly-cute" aesthetics and extreme scarcity. While Labubu has been popular in Asia for years, the trend exploded globally when high-profile celebrities began showcasing their collections. For the Swiss collector, Labubu represents more than just a toy; it is an investment in contemporary pop art. However, finding these figures in local shops can be as difficult as finding a quiet spot in Interlaken during peak season. That is why savvy collectors are looking toward the West—specifically, the United States.

Site Survey: Why the US Market is Your Best Resource

The US market remains a primary hub for Pop Mart releases. While European distribution has improved, the variety and volume available in US-based stores like the official Pop Mart US webstore, NTWRK, and specialized designer toy boutiques often surpass what is available locally in Switzerland. US retailers frequently receive exclusive colorways and early-access drops that never make it to the European continent.

Additionally, the secondary market in the US is incredibly active. Platforms like eBay and StockX in the US often have a wider selection of vaulted or limited-edition Labubu figures. If you are looking to build a truly unique collection, sticking only to Swiss retailers is like trying to build a skyscraper with only a handful of bricks. You need access to the vast inventory of the US to really make your collection stand out.

The Logistics Foundation: Setting Up Your Proxy Shopping Service

Buying from the US while living in Switzerland used to be a logistical nightmare involving astronomical shipping costs and retailers that refuse to ship overseas. This is where your architectural plan requires a solid foundation. To bridge the gap, you need a reliable freight forwarder.

By using a proxy shopping service like comGateway, you are essentially giving yourself a tax-free US address. This allows you to shop at any US store as if you were a local resident. Once your Labubu figures arrive at your US address, they can be consolidated and shipped directly to your doorstep in Switzerland. This method not only saves you money on US sales tax but also provides a streamlined way to manage your international parcels.

Why comGateway is Your Best Project Manager

When dealing with fragile collectibles like vinyl toys, you want an international shipping service that understands the value of your cargo. They offer repackaging services that can reduce the volumetric weight of your shipment, which is a clever way to lower your overall costs without compromising the safety of your Labubu’s original packaging—a crucial detail for collectors who care about resale value.

Step-by-Step Construction: Buying Labubu from US Stores

Ready to start building? Follow this blueprint to ensure a successful acquisition:

• Step 1: Secure Your US Address – Sign up for an account to get your unique US shipping address. This is your "construction site" where all your packages will gather.
• Step 2: Scour the Best Retailers – Visit the Pop Mart US site or other authorized retailers. If a store doesn't accept Swiss credit cards, you can use a "Buy For Me" service to have the forwarder handle the purchase on your behalf.
• Step 3: Ship to Your US Address – Enter your US address at checkout. Enjoy the fact that most US retailers offer free domestic shipping for orders over a certain amount.
• Step 4: Consolidate and Ship – Once your Labubu arrives at the warehouse, you can wait for other orders to arrive and consolidate them into one box to save on international shipping rates.

The Budget Audit: Estimating Your International Shipping Rates

No blueprint is complete without a budget. Before you go on a Labubu shopping spree, it is wise to estimate shipping cost using an online shipping calculator. This tool allows you to input the dimensions and weight of your expected haul to see exactly what you will be paying to get it to Switzerland.

Remember that international shipping is often calculated based on weight and volume. Since most Labubu figures are lightweight but come in sturdy boxes, consolidation is your best friend. By combining multiple blind boxes into a single shipment, you significantly reduce the "per-item" shipping cost, making your hobby much more sustainable for your wallet.

The Swiss Customs Layer: Taxes, Duties, and Restrictions

When shipping from US to Switzerland, you must account for the Swiss Federal Customs Office (OFAC) regulations. In 2026, Switzerland continues to apply Value Added Tax (VAT) on imported goods. As of current standards, the standard VAT rate is 8.1%. Most imports are subject to this tax if the value exceeds a certain threshold (usually if the VAT amount itself is over 5 CHF).

Furthermore, you should always check the prohibited items list before making a purchase. While vinyl toys like Labubu are generally safe, certain accessories—like those containing batteries or specific liquids—might be restricted. Ensuring your items are not on the restricted goods list prevents your package from being held at the border, ensuring a smooth "inspection" and delivery phase.

Pro-Tip for Swiss Collectors

Use a shipping service that provides detailed tracking. When shipping from US to Switzerland, having a tracking number allows you to pre-calculate your VAT and handling fees, so there are no surprises when the Swiss Post or DHL arrives at your door. You can find more specific details on the Switzerland destination page.

Final Inspection: Completing Your Labubu Collection

Building a world-class Labubu collection in Switzerland requires a bit of architectural ingenuity, but the results are well worth the effort. By leveraging the vast US market and utilizing a professional freight forwarder, you can bypass local stock shortages and high markup prices.

Don't let geography limit your collection. With a solid plan, a tax-free US address, and a keen eye for the latest drops, you will have the most impressive Labubu display in the Swiss Alps. Happy hunting, and may your blind box pulls always be the secret chase figures!

Check our guide on prohibited items to ensure your international shopping experience remains stress-free and efficient.