The 2026 Labubu Fever: More Than Just a Toy
As we move through January 2026, the obsession with Pop Mart’s Labubu has reached a fever pitch. Created by artist Kasing Lung, this mischievous elf with serrated teeth has transcended its status as a simple vinyl figure to become a high-fashion accessory and a must-have for Gen Z and millennial collectors alike. In the US, releases sell out in minutes, often fueled by viral moments on social media and celebrity endorsements that keep the hype cycle spinning.
For those in Switzerland, the desire to own these quirky characters is just as strong, but the accessibility is significantly lower. Whether it is the "The Monsters" series or the latest limited edition plush, the demand shows no signs of slowing down this year.
The Invisible Wall: Why Switzerland is Missing Out
Despite being a hub for luxury and design, Switzerland often faces a "hidden barrier" when it comes to niche collectible drops. Most major Pop Mart releases are prioritized for the Asian and North American markets. When items do reach European shores, they are often diverted to larger hubs like London, Paris, or Berlin, leaving Swiss fans with two choices: pay exorbitant markups on the secondary market or face the dreaded "Does not ship to your country" message at checkout.
Furthermore, local boutiques that do manage to secure stock often charge a premium that far exceeds the original retail price. This geographic restriction is the primary obstacle for collectors in Zurich, Geneva, and beyond who want to build a legitimate collection without breaking the bank.
The US Advantage: Where the Stock Lives
The United States remains one of the best places to buy Pop Mart Labubu figures at retail prices. US-based storefronts and official online retailers receive larger allocations and more frequent restocks than almost anywhere else in the West. However, many of these stores do not offer direct international shipping to Switzerland, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high.
This is where savvy collectors use a proxy shopping strategy. If you find that a US store won't accept your international credit card or address, you can utilize a buy for me usa service to have a local agent handle the purchase on your behalf, ensuring you never miss a drop.
The Logistics Bridge: Using a US Freight Forwarder
To overcome the shipping barrier, most collectors utilize a freight forwarder. This service provides you with a tax-free us address (typically in Oregon) where you can send your purchases. Once your Labubu arrives at the warehouse, it can be consolidated with other items to save on costs.
Using a parcel forwarding service like comGateway allows you to take control of the delivery process. Before you buy, it is a smart move to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost from the US to your Swiss doorstep. This transparency ensures there are no surprises when your package is ready to cross the Atlantic.
Understanding Swiss Import Tax and Customs
When shipping from US to Switzerland, you must be aware of the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG) regulations. Switzerland has specific thresholds for import tax and VAT that can affect the final cost of your collectibles.
| Fee Type | Rate (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VAT (MWST) | 8.1% | Standard rate applied to the value of goods + shipping. |
| Customs Duty | Varies | Often negligible for plastic toys, but weight-based. |
| Administrative Fee | CHF 11.50 - 16.00 | Charged by carriers like Swiss Post or DHL for processing. |
By understanding these costs upfront, you can factor them into your budget. Remember that shipments with a VAT amount of less than CHF 5.00 are generally exempt from tax, though Labubu sets usually exceed this value.
Pro Tips for Secure International Shipping
When dealing with high-value collectibles, the quality of your international shipping matters. Opting for reputable carriers like DHL international shipping or FedEx international shipping ensures that your items are handled with care and arrive quickly. These carriers offer robust tracking, so you can watch your Labubu travel from the US warehouse all the way to the Swiss Alps.
Safety is also paramount. Always check the list of prohibited items to ensure that any additional accessories (like cleaning fluids or electronic components) are allowed. If you are ever in doubt about the process, the FAQ section on the help center of your chosen freight forwarder is an invaluable resource for first-time shippers.
By leveraging a US address and a reliable forwarding partner, the "hidden barrier" of Swiss shopping disappears, allowing you to secure the rarest Pop Mart Labubu figures of 2026 with ease.
