My professional warning on why German collectors are losing their Pop Mart Hirono US-Exclusives to order cancellations

April 29, 2026

The 2026 Hirono 'The Other One' Hype

I have tracked the rise of Pop Mart for years, but the 2026 release of the Hirono 'The Other One' US-Exclusive Vinyl Figure represents a unique challenge for my colleagues in the European collecting community. This specific figure is restricted to the US Pop Mart webstore, creating a massive secondary market demand in China and Europe. As a logistics professional, I monitor these 'Rising Star' releases closely because they often trigger aggressive anti-export filters on retail websites.

My professional warning on why German collectors are losing their Pop Mart Hirono US-Exclusives to order cancellations
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The Hirono series has always focused on emotional vulnerability, and 'The Other One' captures a specific aesthetic that collectors in Germany are desperate to own. However, simply having the funds is not enough to secure this piece. I have observed a significant increase in order cancellations for anyone attempting to ship these directly to known export hubs without the proper setup.

Why I see so many German orders getting flagged

I frequently receive reports from collectors in Berlin and Munich who find their orders cancelled within minutes of placement. The reason is simple: US retail giants, including Pop Mart’s regional store, have upgraded their fraud and export detection systems in 2026. When you use a German credit card or a billing address outside the United States, their system flags the transaction as high-risk.

Furthermore, many retailers maintain a database of addresses associated with any freight forwarder. If their system detects a known parcel forwarding service address, they may automatically void the transaction to protect their regional exclusivity agreements. This is where many German collectors lose their chance at a retail-priced Hirono and are forced to pay 300% markups on the gray market.

The BuyForMe solution for restricted stores

We have found a consistent way to bypass these digital barriers. If you are struggling with a store that blocks international credit cards or cancels orders to shipping hubs, I recommend the comGateway 'BuyForMe' service. This is not just a standard shipping trick; it is an assisted purchase program where comGateway acts as the buyer.

When I use this service, a US-based agent uses a domestic US credit card and a residential-style address to place the order on your behalf. This significantly reduces the risk of the 'The Other One' figure being cancelled. It is the safest way to shop US store locations that are traditionally hostile to international buyers from Germany. By letting a local professional handle the transaction, you ensure that your exclusive Hirono figure actually leaves the warehouse.

Logistical Breakdown for 'The Other One' Figure

Before you commit to a purchase, I want to provide a professional estimate of what you are actually shipping. Based on my experience with the Hirono 'The Other One' packaging, here is the logistical profile you should expect when using an international shipping service.

Metric Estimate
Box Weight Approx. 1.2 lbs (0.55 kg)
Box Dimensions Small (Approx. 8" x 6" x 6")
Battery Check None (Solid Vinyl)
Volumetric Warning Low Risk

While the Hirono figure is relatively dense, it is light. You should not worry about volumetric weight unless you are buying multiple units or large-scale statues. I always advise my clients to use the shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before the item arrives at the warehouse. This prevents any surprises when it is time to forward packages to Germany.

Import and Duty Realities in Germany

When the package arrives in Germany, it will pass through the hands of the Zoll (Customs). I cannot stress enough that you must be prepared for import duties and GST/VAT. In 2026, the threshold for VAT-free imports remains strictly enforced. Since this Hirono figure is a US-exclusive, the declared value will likely exceed the minimum exemptions.

I recommend checking the latest customs tax guidelines to understand how much you will owe upon delivery. You might also like to read our professional guide on import tax strategies for European collectors to ensure you aren't overcharged by the carrier for processing fees.

Securing your exclusive vinyl safely

My final piece of advice for German collectors is to act quickly but carefully. These US-exclusive Pop Mart drops sell out in seconds. If you want to shop us ship international, you need a tax-free US address ready to go before the drop happens. Using comGateway provides that Oregon-based address, which also saves you the 7-10% US sales tax that you would otherwise pay at checkout.

I have seen too many people lose money to scammers on social media promising 'direct shipping' from the US. Stick to established logistics partners and use assisted purchase services when the retailer gets difficult. It is the only way to guarantee that Hirono 'The Other One' ends up on your shelf in Germany rather than being stuck in a cancelled order queue.

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