What’s Behind the 2026 US Labubu Craze? The Insider Secrets for China Collectors to Beat the Shortages

The Labubu Fever: Why 2026 is the Year of the Monster

If you have been browsing your social feeds recently, you have likely encountered a mischievous creature with a wide, serrated grin and pointed ears. This is Labubu, the flagship character of the "The Monsters" series created by artist Kasing Lung. While Labubu has been a staple in the Asian toy scene for years, 2026 has marked a massive, unexpected explosion in popularity within the United States market.

What exactly triggered this sudden surge? In early 2026, a series of high-profile collaborations with American streetwear brands and limited-edition drops at major US toy conventions have turned Labubu from a niche collectible into a mainstream phenomenon. For collectors in China, this has created a unique challenge: many of the most sought-after designs are now being released as US exclusives, leaving fans in Labubu's home region scrambling to find ways to acquire them.

The Hunt for US-Exclusive Releases

The 2026 Labubu collection features several variants that are specifically tied to North American retailers. From the "Pacific Coast" special editions to collaborations with NYC-based artists, these blind boxes are often sold out within minutes of hitting the shelves at Pop Mart's US flagship stores or partner boutiques like Barnes & Noble and specialized hobby shops in Los Angeles.

For a collector living in China, the difficulty isn't just the distance; it's the regional lock on many online stores. US retailers often do not offer direct shipping to China, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive and the risk of the package being lost in transit is high. This is why many savvy collectors have turned to a reliable package forwarder to bridge the gap.

Securing Your Collection from China

If you are looking to get your hands on these American drops, you need a strategy that bypasses regional shipping restrictions. The most effective method is using a US-based address provided by a freight forwarder. By using comGateway, you gain access to a US shipping address that you can use at checkout just like any local resident.

To help you navigate this process, here is a how it works step-by-step guide:

• Step 1: Register for a free account to receive your unique US shipping address.
• Step 2: Shop at your favorite US retailers (Pop Mart US, eBay, or specialized toy stores) and enter your comGateway address at checkout.
• Step 3: Once your Labubu blind boxes arrive at the warehouse, you will be notified to manage your shipment.
• Step 4: Select your preferred shipping method to China and wait for your monsters to arrive at your doorstep.

Navigating the Shipping Logistics of 2026

Shipping collectibles internationally requires a bit of foresight, especially with the fluctuating international shipping rates seen in 2026. Because blind boxes are lightweight but often bulky when bought in cases, understanding your costs upfront is essential. You should always use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before finalizing your purchase. This ensures that the "deal" you found on a rare Labubu doesn't get eclipsed by unexpected shipping fees.

Furthermore, consider the benefit of consolidation. If you are buying from multiple US sellers, a package forwarder can hold your items and ship them together in one box, significantly reducing the overall international shipping price compared to shipping each item individually.

Essential Import Knowledge for China Collectors

When shipping from US to China, it is vital to stay informed about local customs regulations. China has specific thresholds for personal imports, and exceeding these can result in delays or additional duties. Additionally, you must be aware of what can and cannot be shipped.

Before you ship your 2026 Labubu haul, check the list of prohibited items or restricted goods. While PVC toys are generally safe, certain accessories or cleaning kits included in hobby sets might fall under restricted categories. Ensuring compliance with these rules is the only way to guarantee your collection doesn't get stuck in customs purgatory.

Avoiding the Invisible Border

Even with a forwarder, there are nuances to the 2026 market that collectors must watch out for. Supply chain shifts and new digital authentication methods for blind boxes have added layers of complexity to the hobby. You don't want to spend hundreds of dollars on a rare set only to find it held up by a technicality.

You might also like to check our guide on the specific challenges of this year's market. Read more: URGENT: The Invisible Border Stopping Your 2026 Labubu Blind Box Collection in its Tracks. This resource details the latest updates on customs clearance and the specific hurdles facing Labubu fans in the current year.

Summary Table for US-to-China Labubu Shopping

By following these essential steps and utilizing a reliable package forwarder, you can ensure that your 2026 Labubu collection remains complete, no matter how many "US Exclusive" stickers the manufacturers decide to use.