Collecting designer toys has evolved from a niche passion into a global phenomenon, and among the many brands adored by collectors, Labubu from POP MART has captured a particularly loyal fanbase. These whimsical, mischievous characters designed by Kasing Lung have become treasures for enthusiasts around the world, including Canada. However, for Labubu Canadian collectors, importing Labubu figures from overseas can be a tricky process, as it involves navigating through customs regulations, duties, taxes, and import restrictions. Understanding how Canadian customs handle these collectibles can save time, money, and stress — especially when purchasing from international sellers or limited-edition drops.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything Canadian collectors should know about importing Labubu toys — from how customs duties work to tips for smooth delivery.
Before diving into the legalities, it’s worth recognizing why Labubu figures are such a sensation. Designed by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung, each Labubu character embodies a quirky charm that merges the eerie with the adorable. POP MART’s mystery box model means collectors rarely know which design they’ll get, making unboxing a thrilling experience. This element of surprise has fueled the collectible toy community’s enthusiasm, with some rare editions fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars in resale markets.
Because POP MART releases are often limited or exclusive to certain regions like China, Japan, or Hong Kong, many Canadian fans turn to international resellers or online platforms to secure their favorite Labubu pieces. That’s where customs rules come into play.
When a Labubu toy is purchased from outside Canada, it must pass through Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) inspection before being delivered. CBSA is responsible for ensuring that imported goods comply with Canadian laws and for collecting any applicable duties and taxes.
The key factors that determine whether you’ll pay extra fees are the item’s value, origin, and how it’s shipped. Understanding these variables helps collectors anticipate costs and avoid surprises at the door.
In Canada, imported goods may be subject to customs duty and sales tax (GST/HST). The amount you owe depends on how much the item costs and where it was shipped from.
As of current regulations, Canada has a de minimis threshold — the minimum value below which goods can enter the country duty-free and tax-free. For shipments sent through postal mail (Canada Post), the threshold is quite low, only CAD 20. That means if your Labubu figure costs more than $20, you’ll likely have to pay GST or HST on it, and possibly duties depending on its origin.
However, if you order from couriers like DHL, UPS, or FedEx, the threshold is higher — up to CAD 40 for taxes and CAD 150 for duties, thanks to the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). This only applies if the shipment originates from the U.S. or Mexico. For orders shipped from Asia — where most Labubu figures come from — regular import fees will apply once the declared value exceeds $20.
One of the most common issues among collectors is undervalued packages. Some sellers may mark an item as a “gift” or declare a lower value to help buyers avoid duties. While this may seem harmless, it is technically illegal under Canadian customs law. If CBSA suspects the value is misrepresented, they can seize the package, impose fines, or delay delivery.
Collectors are advised to ensure that the declared value on their invoice matches the actual purchase price. In the long run, honest declarations prevent serious complications and protect your collector’s record with customs.
Another aspect every collector should be prepared for is inspection time. Even small packages can be delayed if CBSA decides to inspect them. Labubu toys, often shipped in blind boxes, may raise questions about their content value, especially if the shipment includes multiple figures.
Inspections can add anywhere from a few days to several weeks to your delivery time. While frustrating, these checks are standard for imported goods and ensure compliance with safety and tax laws. Tracking updates usually indicate when your package is “held by customs,” and once cleared, it resumes its journey through the postal or courier system.
When your package arrives in Canada, you’ll be notified if duties or taxes are due. If the shipment comes through Canada Post, you’ll typically receive a delivery notice requiring payment before release. For courier services, companies like FedEx or DHL often pay the customs charges upfront and then bill you directly or collect payment upon delivery.
The total owed includes the federal GST (5%), provincial HST (where applicable), and sometimes a handling fee — often called a “brokerage fee.” This fee covers the cost of processing customs paperwork. Understanding these costs helps collectors plan better when budgeting for their next Labubu purchase.
Fortunately, Labubu toys don’t fall under Canada’s prohibited or restricted goods list, as they are harmless vinyl collectibles. However, if the toys include batteries, magnetic parts, or materials not compliant with Canadian safety standards, there might be additional checks. For standard blind box toys, no such issues exist, but collectors should still ensure they purchase from legitimate sellers who comply with product labeling and safety standards.
Many Canadian collectors buy directly from POP MART’s official online store, while others prefer resellers on eBay, AliExpress, or Instagram-based shops. Buying directly from official sources ensures authenticity but may involve longer shipping times and higher import costs.
Resellers, on the other hand, sometimes ship from within Canada, meaning the goods have already cleared customs — saving buyers the hassle. However, buyers must remain cautious, as counterfeit Labubu figures have emerged in global markets. Always verify seller credibility, check reviews, and compare product photos before making a purchase.
Planning is the key to stress-free collecting. Here are a few practical steps for importing Labubu toys into Canada successfully:
When possible, consolidate your orders to reduce shipping frequency, but keep the total declared value moderate to avoid large duty payments. Track your shipments closely to respond quickly if customs requires documentation. Use a reliable courier for high-value or limited-edition figures to ensure secure handling. Keep all receipts and invoices — they’re essential if you need to contest a customs charge.
While these steps may seem tedious, they ensure your precious collectibles arrive safely and legally.
Sometimes, customs may overestimate the value of an item or charge incorrect duties. In such cases, collectors can request a refund or review through CBSA’s Casual Refund Program by submitting Form B2G. You’ll need proof of purchase and shipping documentation to support your claim.
It may take several weeks to process, but if successful, you’ll receive a refund for the overpaid amount. This process reinforces why keeping accurate records of your transactions is vital.
Collecting Labubu figures is more than a hobby — it’s a creative journey filled with excitement, nostalgia, and community. Yet, the joy of collecting can quickly turn sour if customs issues arise. By understanding Canada’s import regulations, being transparent about declared values, and planning purchases wisely, collectors can enjoy their Labubu treasures without unnecessary hurdles.
The world of designer toys thrives on passion and authenticity. Respecting customs and import rules not only protects that authenticity but also ensures Labubu Doll that your growing Labubu collection remains a source of pride — and not paperwork. So, the next time you spot that limited-edition figure online, take a moment to check the import details, budget for duties, and then look forward to unboxing your next little mischievous friend — legally and safely in your Canadian home.