Table of Contents
- The Star People Phenomenon: Why It’s Dominating 2026
- Why Collectors Crave Star People
- The US Advantage for Australian Collectors
- How to Purchase Pop Mart Star People from US Stores
- Managing International Logistics with comGateway
- Understanding Australia’s Import Duties and GST
- Comparing Shipping Rates and Delivery Times
- Common Questions for Australian Collectors
The Star People Phenomenon: Why It’s Dominating 2026
As we move through 2026, the designer toy market has seen a massive shift in consumer behavior. Specifically, the Pop Mart Star People collection has become a global obsession. What started as a niche series of blind boxes has evolved into a high-stakes hobby for collectors worldwide. In Australia, the demand has skyrocketed, but local supply often fails to keep pace with the frantic release schedule of Pop Mart’s US and Asian hubs.
Recent market data suggests that nearly 75% of serious collectors are now bypassing local retailers entirely. Instead, they are looking toward the United States, where inventory levels for limited editions like the Star People series are significantly higher and restocks are more frequent.
Why Collectors Crave Star People
The Star People collection is praised for its intricate celestial designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Each figure represents a different astronomical concept, blending pop culture aesthetics with cosmic mystery. In 2026, the rarity of "Secret" figures in this set has driven secondary market prices to triple their original retail value. For an Australian collector, missing a local drop means potentially paying hundreds of dollars more on the resale market.
The US Advantage for Australian Collectors
Why are Aussies looking all the way to North America? The answer lies in market volume. US-based retailers like the official Pop Mart US store, NTWRK, and specialized designer toy boutiques receive the largest allocations of new stock. While an Australian store might receive fifty units, a major US distributor might receive five thousand.
Furthermore, US stores often participate in exclusive collaborations and promotional events that aren't available in the Oceania region. By shopping in the US, collectors gain access to the full breadth of the Star People universe, including limited-edition variants that never touch Australian soil.
How to Purchase Pop Mart Star People from US Stores
Buying from the US while living in Australia is simpler than most people think, but it does require a bit of strategy. Most US retailers do not offer direct international shipping to Australia, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high. This is where a reliable package forwarder becomes essential.
To start your collection, you should first identify the major US retailers stocking Pop Mart. Once you have found your desired Star People figures, you can use a US-based shipping address provided by comGateway. This allows you to shop at any US store as if you lived there, bypassing the "no international shipping" barrier.
Managing International Logistics with comGateway
Once your Star People figures arrive at your US address, the next step is getting them to your doorstep in Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth. Using a service like comGateway provides several advantages for the savvy collector:
- Package Consolidation: If you buy from multiple US stores, you can wait for all your items to arrive and ship them together in one box, significantly reducing the cost.
- Repackaging: Blind boxes are delicate. Professional forwarders can repackage your items to ensure they survive the long journey across the Pacific.
- Tracking: You get end-to-end visibility on your rare collectibles.
Before you commit to a purchase, it is always wise to estimate shipping cost using an online tool. This ensures there are no surprises when it comes time to move your items from the warehouse to your home.
Understanding Australia’s Import Duties and GST
When importing goods into Australia, you must be aware of the local tax laws. Since 2018, the Australian government has applied a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on low-value imported goods (those valued at AUD $1,000 or less). If your Pop Mart haul exceeds AUD $1,000, you may also be subject to additional import duties and customs processing fees.
Check our guide on GST/VAT and customs regulations to stay informed. Managing these costs upfront is part of being a successful international collector. Most package forwarders will help you handle the documentation required for Australian Customs, making the process seamless.
Comparing Shipping Rates and Delivery Times
In 2026, shipping speeds have improved, but prices can fluctuate based on fuel surcharges and carrier demand. To get the best deal, you should regularly check international shipping rates. Generally, collectors choose between Express shipping (3-5 business days) or Standard shipping (7-12 business days).
| Shipping Method | Estimated Delivery | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Express | 3-5 Days | High-value Secret figures |
| Standard | 7-12 Days | Bulk blind box orders |
| Economy | 15+ Days | Budget-conscious collectors |
Common Questions for Australian Collectors
We understand that international shopping can feel daunting if it’s your first time. If you have specific concerns about how your package is handled or what happens if a shipment is delayed, the FAQ section on our help center is an excellent resource. It covers everything from insurance options to restricted items.
For those chasing the Star People series, the effort of sourcing from the US is well worth it. Not only do you get access to a wider variety of figures, but you also join a global community of collectors who refuse to let geographical borders limit their passion. Happy hunting, and may you find that elusive Secret figure in your next US shipment!
