Why You’re Wrong About US Labubu Drops Being Unreachable from the Philippines

The Global Labubu Obsession in 2026

As we move through January 2026, the Labubu phenomenon shows no signs of slowing down. Created by artist Kasing Lung under the Pop Mart umbrella, these mischievous monsters have evolved from niche designer toys to global cultural icons. In the Philippines, the demand often outstrips local supply, leading to sold-out shelves and astronomical reseller prices on the secondary market.

While the local community is vibrant, the most exclusive colorways and limited-edition collaborations often drop first—or exclusively—in the United States. Many Filipino collectors watch these drops from a distance, assuming that the logistics of getting a 3-inch vinyl figure from a warehouse in California to a doorstep in Manila is either too complicated or too expensive. This assumption is incorrect.

Myth-Busting: Why You Think US Drops Are Impossible

The biggest myth circulating in the local toy community is that US retailers like Pop Mart US, NTWRK, or Mindzai won't cater to Philippine buyers. While it is true that many of these stores do not offer direct international shipping to Southeast Asia, this is not a dead end. It is merely a logistics hurdle that is easily bypassed with a freight forwarder.

Another common misconception is that your package will inevitably get lost in the mail or stuck in customs for months. In 2026, international logistics have become highly streamlined. By using a professional parcel forwarding service, you gain access to tracking and insurance that local postal services often lack, ensuring your Labubu Macaron or Have a Seat series arrives in pristine condition.

The Cost Fallacy: It’s Cheaper Than You Realize

Filipino collectors often fear that shipping costs will double the price of the toy. This is rarely the case if you shop smart. Before you commit to a purchase, you should always use a shipping calculator to get a realistic view of the total landed cost. When you compare the US retail price plus shipping against the local "market price" set by resellers, the US route often saves you thousands of Pesos, especially on rare blind boxes.

How to Buy Labubu from US Stores Directly

To secure the latest drops, you need to act fast. US stores often restock at times that coincide with early mornings in the Philippines. To participate, you need a US shipping address. This is where comGateway comes in. By signing up, you receive a dedicated US address that you can enter at checkout on any American retail site.

When shopping on Pop Mart’s US site, simply enter your provided US suite number as your shipping address. This allows the store to ship your Labubu domestically within the US, which is often free for orders over a certain threshold.

Leveraging a Tax-Free US Address

One of the smartest moves you can make is using a tax-free us address located in Oregon. Most US states charge a sales tax of 7% to 10% at checkout. By shipping your Labubu to a warehouse in Oregon, you instantly save that extra cost, making your 2026 collection significantly more affordable.

When US Stores Reject Your Card: The Proxy Solution

Occasionally, US retailers may decline credit cards issued in the Philippines or detect that you are using a non-US IP address. If you encounter this, don't give up. You can utilize a BuyForMe service. This proxy shopping option means the service provider buys the item on your behalf using a US-issued payment method, ensuring you don't miss out on high-heat drops.

Navigating Philippines Customs and Import Rules

For collectors in the Philippines, the de minimis rule is your best friend. As of 2026, shipments with a total value (including insurance and freight) of 10,000 PHP or less are exempt from import duties and taxes. If your Labubu haul stays under this limit, you won't have to worry about extra Bureau of Customs fees. For larger hauls, a reliable service for shipping from US to Philippines will provide clear documentation to help your package clear customs without unnecessary delays.

Your Step-by-Step Roadmap to US Labubu Collections

If you are ready to stop paying reseller prices and start buying direct, follow this step-by-step guide to get started:

Stop letting the myth of "impossible shipping" keep your shelves empty. With the right us package forwarding strategy, the entire US Pop Mart catalog is available to you at the click of a button. Start your 2026 collection the right way—direct from the source.