Step-by-Step Guide: How to Source and Sell Labubu for Profit

Transform your passion for collectibles into a profitable business by mastering the art of sourcing and selling Labubu dolls—the viral collectible sensation that's creating millionaire resellers worldwide.

What You'll Accomplish: Build a profitable Labubu reselling business with reliable sourcing channels and effective sales strategies
Time Required: 2-4 weeks to establish initial operations, ongoing for scaling
What You Need: Initial capital ($500-2000), computer/smartphone, shipping materials, market research tools

Step 1: Research and Understand the Labubu Market

Goal: Master market dynamics, identify profitable opportunities, and understand collector behavior patterns to make informed sourcing and pricing decisions

1. Analyze Current Market Trends: Visit Labubu market trends and research recent price movements

   • Check WorthPoint Price Guide for historical pricing data
   • Expected result: Understanding of which series command premium prices

2. Study Collector Communities: Join Labubu Facebook groups and LabubuSwap platform

   • Monitor daily posts for 1 week to understand demand patterns
   • Expected result: Clear picture of which designs collectors actively seek

3. Track Celebrity Endorsements: Set up Google Alerts for "Labubu celebrity" and "Labubu collaboration"

   • Monitor social media mentions from influencers like Blackpink's Lisa and Rihanna
   • Expected result: Early awareness of viral moments that spike demand

4. Identify High-Demand Series: Research limited edition series and brand collaborations

   • Focus on Uniqlo and Coca-Cola collaborations
   • Expected result: Target list of 5-10 high-value series to prioritize

5. Monitor Official Release Schedules: Check Pop Mart's official website daily for new announcements

   • Sign up for their newsletter and follow their social media
   • Expected result: Advance knowledge of upcoming releases for strategic positioning

If market data seems inconsistent: Cross-reference prices across multiple platforms including eBay, Mercari, and LabubuSwap

If collector groups are inactive: Expand search to Instagram hashtags and TikTok trends for real-time collector activity

If official sources are in Chinese: Use Google Translate browser extension for automatic page translation

You'll know you're done when: You have comprehensive market intelligence and can predict profitable opportunities

• Identified 10+ high-demand Labubu series with current market values
• Established monitoring system for celebrity endorsements and viral moments
• Built network in 3+ active collector communities for market insights
• Created alerts for new releases and collaboration announcements
• Documented price ranges for common vs. rare designs (typically $20-30 retail, $50-500+ resale for limited editions)

Ready for next step? You now understand market dynamics and can identify profitable sourcing opportunities based on collector demand patterns.

Step 2: Establish Authentic Sourcing Channels

Goal: Build reliable supplier relationships and secure authentic inventory at wholesale prices through verified channels

1. Set Up Official Channel Accounts: Create accounts on Pop Mart's official website and authorized retailers

   • Register for Pop Mart newsletters for early release notifications
   • Expected result: Priority access to new releases and official product launches

2. Research Wholesale Platforms: Access 1688.com and search for "Labubu original" suppliers

   • Use Google Translate browser extension for Chinese language navigation
   • Expected result: List of 10+ verified wholesale suppliers with bulk pricing

3. Verify Supplier Credentials: Check each supplier's ratings and certifications

   • Look for suppliers with 95%+ positive ratings and "Gold Supplier" status
   • Expected result: Shortlist of 3-5 highly-rated suppliers with proven track records

4. Contact Professional Sourcing Agents: Research China sourcing agents specializing in toys and collectibles

   • Request quotes from 3+ agents for Labubu procurement services
   • Expected result: Agent partnerships for supplier verification and logistics management

5. Plan Trade Show Attendance: Register for Shenzhen International Toy Fair and Shanghai International Pop Culture Expo

   • Book travel and accommodation 3+ months in advance for better rates
   • Expected result: Direct access to manufacturers and exclusive product previews

6. Establish Authorized Retailer Relationships: Contact Miniso, GameStop, Box Lunch, and H Mart for bulk purchasing agreements

   • Inquire about wholesale pricing and minimum order quantities
   • Expected result: Negotiated wholesale rates with established retail chains

If 1688.com suppliers seem unreliable: Cross-reference with Alibaba.com and verify through third-party verification services

If language barriers persist: Hire a professional translator or use English-speaking sourcing agents

If trade shows are too expensive: Start with virtual trade shows and online industry events to build initial connections

You'll know you're done when: You have multiple verified sourcing channels with established relationships and competitive pricing

• Active accounts with Pop Mart and 3+ authorized retailers for official releases
• Verified relationships with 3+ wholesale suppliers offering 30-50% below retail pricing
• Professional sourcing agent partnership for quality control and logistics
• Registered for upcoming trade shows with pre-scheduled manufacturer meetings
• Documented supplier verification process to avoid counterfeit "Lafufus"
• Established minimum order quantities and payment terms with each supplier

Ready for next step? You now have reliable sourcing channels and can focus on verifying product authenticity before making purchases.

Step 3: Verify Product Authenticity and Quality

Goal: Ensure all products are genuine to protect your reputation and avoid legal issues with counterfeit merchandise

1. Create Authentication Checklist: Download and print a Labubu authentication checklist for systematic verification

   • Include photos of authentic vs. fake comparison guides
   • Expected result: Standardized inspection process for every product received

2. Inspect Labubu Teeth Count: Count the teeth on every Labubu figure using a magnifying glass

   • Authentic Labubu figures have exactly 9 evenly painted teeth
   • Expected result: Immediate identification of counterfeits with incorrect tooth counts

3. Verify Packaging Watermark: Shine a bright LED light on the inside foil surface of the box

   • Look for the hidden "Have a Seat" watermark that appears under light
   • Expected result: Clear watermark visibility on authentic packaging only

4. Check Skin Tone and Paint Quality: Examine the figure's skin tone under natural daylight lighting

   • Authentic Labubu has pale, peachy skin tone with smooth, even paint application
   • Expected result: Professional-quality paint finish without streaks or color variations

5. Verify Logo and Font Accuracy: Compare logos and text against official Pop Mart reference images

   • Check for misprints, font inconsistencies, and logo placement errors
   • Expected result: Perfect match to official branding standards

6. Request Supplier Documentation: Demand Pop Mart authorization certificates from all suppliers

   • Verify certificates directly with Pop Mart's official channels
   • Expected result: Confirmed supplier legitimacy and authorization status

7. Conduct Sample Testing: Order 1-3 sample units before placing bulk orders

   • Test each authentication method on samples before committing to large purchases
   • Expected result: 100% authentication success rate on sample products

If watermark is unclear: Use a UV blacklight as an alternative lighting source for better watermark visibility

If supplier documentation seems questionable: Contact Pop Mart customer service directly to verify supplier authorization

If authentication results are inconsistent: Hire a professional authentication service for high-value purchases

You'll know you're done when: You have foolproof authentication systems protecting against counterfeit "Lafufus"

• Documented authentication checklist with visual reference guides
• 100% success rate identifying authentic vs. counterfeit products in blind tests
• Verified supplier authorization certificates from Pop Mart
• Quality control process catching paint defects and manufacturing flaws
• Sample testing protocol preventing bulk counterfeit purchases
• Professional lighting and magnification tools for detailed inspections

Ready for next step? You now have authentication expertise and can confidently build sales infrastructure with genuine inventory.

Step 4: Set Up Your Sales Infrastructure

Goal: Create professional selling platforms and optimize for maximum visibility and conversions across multiple channels

1. Create eBay Seller Account: Register as a business seller on eBay with collectibles category focus

   • Complete seller verification and set up managed payments
   • Expected result: Professional eBay storefront ready for Labubu listings

2. Set Up Etsy Shop: Create an Etsy shop targeting collectibles and pop culture enthusiasts

   • Choose shop name incorporating "Labubu," "collectibles," or "Pop Mart" keywords
   • Expected result: Branded Etsy shop optimized for collectibles search traffic

3. Join LabubuSwap Platform: Register on LabubuSwap for direct collector community access

   • Complete profile with seller verification and authenticity guarantees
   • Expected result: Access to dedicated Labubu collector marketplace

4. Build Social Media Presence: Create business accounts on Instagram and Facebook

   • Post daily Labubu content with hashtags like #Labubu #PopMart #Collectibles
   • Expected result: Growing follower base of Labubu collectors and enthusiasts

5. Set Up Photography Studio: Create a product photography setup with proper lighting

   • Use lightbox kit and neutral backgrounds for consistent product photos
   • Expected result: Professional-quality product images for all listings

6. Install Inventory Management: Set up inventory tracking software or spreadsheet system

   • Track purchase prices, listing dates, and profit margins for each item
   • Expected result: Organized inventory system preventing overselling and tracking profitability

7. Configure Payment Processing: Set up PayPal Business and Stripe for secure transactions

   • Enable buyer protection and fraud prevention features
   • Expected result: Secure payment processing with buyer confidence features

If eBay limits new seller listings: Start with auction-style listings to build feedback before fixed-price listings

If social media growth is slow: Join Labubu collector groups and engage authentically before promoting your products

If photography quality is poor: Use smartphone photography techniques with natural lighting as a cost-effective alternative

You'll know you're done when: You have professional sales channels optimized for maximum reach and conversions

• Active seller accounts on eBay, Etsy, and LabubuSwap with completed profiles
• Social media presence with 100+ followers and daily engagement
• Professional product photography setup producing consistent, high-quality images
• Inventory management system tracking all products and profit margins
• Secure payment processing with buyer protection features enabled
• Optimized listings using collectibles keywords and SEO best practices
• Customer service infrastructure ready for inquiries and order processing

Ready for next step? You now have professional sales infrastructure and can focus on strategic pricing and marketing to maximize profits.

Step 5: Implement Strategic Pricing and Marketing

Goal: Maximize profit margins while building a loyal customer base through strategic pricing and effective marketing campaigns

1. Research Current Market Prices: Use WorthPoint Price Guide to analyze recent Labubu sales data

   • Document price ranges for each series: standard ($20-30 retail, $40-60 resale), limited editions ($50-200+), ultra-rare ($500-150,000+)
   • Expected result: Comprehensive pricing database for informed markup decisions

2. Set Competitive Pricing Strategy: Calculate 50-100% markup on standard figures, 200-500% on limited editions

   • Use pricing calculators to factor in fees, shipping, and desired profit margins
   • Expected result: Profitable pricing structure that remains competitive in the market

3. Create Celebrity-Endorsed Marketing Content: Develop posts highlighting Lisa's Labubu collection and Rihanna's endorsement

   • Share celebrity photos with your products using hashtags #LabubuCelebrity #PopMartCollector
   • Expected result: Increased social proof and customer interest through celebrity association

4. Implement Scarcity Marketing: Create urgency with "Limited Stock" and "Rare Find" messaging

   • Use countdown timers on listings and "Only X Left" inventory alerts
   • Expected result: Faster sales conversions and premium pricing acceptance

5. Launch Authenticity Guarantee Campaign: Promote your authentication process as a key selling point

   • Create authenticity certificates and "100% Genuine Guarantee" badges
   • Expected result: Premium pricing justification and customer trust building

6. Optimize SEO Keywords: Research and implement high-traffic keywords in all listings

   • Use terms like "authentic Labubu," "Pop Mart collectible," "limited edition," "celebrity endorsed"
   • Expected result: Increased organic search visibility and traffic

7. Create Bundle Pricing Strategies: Offer discounted multi-item packages to increase average order value

   • Bundle complementary series or offer "collector starter packs" at attractive price points
   • Expected result: Higher per-transaction revenue and customer satisfaction

If prices seem too high compared to competitors: Focus on value-added services like authentication, premium packaging, and customer support

If marketing content isn't generating engagement: Join active collector communities and participate authentically before promoting

If conversion rates are low: A/B test different pricing strategies and listing optimization techniques

You'll know you're done when: You have profitable pricing and marketing systems driving consistent sales and customer acquisition

• Documented pricing strategy with 50-100% profit margins on standard items, 200-500% on rare pieces
• Active marketing campaigns leveraging celebrity endorsements and social proof
• SEO-optimized listings ranking high for relevant collectibles keywords
• Authenticity guarantee program differentiating your brand from competitors
• Bundle pricing strategies increasing average order values by 30-50%
• Scarcity marketing tactics creating urgency and premium pricing acceptance
• Performance tracking system monitoring conversion rates and profit margins

Ready for next step? You now have profitable pricing and effective marketing driving sales, and can focus on optimizing operations and customer service.

Step 6: Manage Logistics and Customer Service

Goal: Streamline operations for efficient order fulfillment and exceptional customer experience that builds loyalty and positive reviews

1. Set Up Professional Packaging System: Purchase collectibles packaging supplies including bubble wrap, protective boxes, and branded materials

   • Create standardized packaging process with fragile item protection for all Labubu figures
   • Expected result: Professional packaging that prevents damage and enhances unboxing experience

2. Configure Shipping Insurance: Set up shipping insurance for all items over $50 value

   • Use USPS, UPS, or FedEx insurance options for high-value protection
   • Expected result: Full coverage protection for valuable Labubu shipments

3. Implement Tracking Systems: Provide tracking numbers for every shipment with automated email notifications

   • Set up tracking integration with your selling platforms for automatic updates
   • Expected result: Customer confidence through real-time shipment visibility

4. Create Customer Service Templates: Develop response templates for common inquiries about authenticity, shipping, and returns

   • Include authenticity guarantee language and return policy details
   • Expected result: Consistent, professional communication reducing response time to under 2 hours

5. Establish Return/Exchange Policy: Create clear return policy for damaged items and authenticity disputes

   • Offer 30-day returns for damaged items with photo evidence requirements
   • Expected result: Customer trust through fair return policies and dispute resolution

6. Set Up International Shipping: Configure customs documentation and international shipping options

   • Prepare standard customs forms with proper collectibles classifications
   • Expected result: Global market access with compliant international shipping

7. Implement Quality Control Checks: Create pre-shipping inspection checklist for every order

   • Verify authenticity, condition, and packaging quality before shipment
   • Expected result: Zero defective shipments and maintained reputation for quality

If shipping costs are too high: Negotiate bulk shipping discounts with carriers or use shipping software for better rates

If international customs issues arise: Partner with customs brokers or use specialized international shipping services

If customer complaints increase: Implement feedback collection system to identify and address recurring issues proactively

You'll know you're done when: You have efficient operations delivering exceptional customer experiences consistently

• Professional packaging system preventing damage with 99%+ successful delivery rate
• Comprehensive shipping insurance covering all high-value items ($50+)
• Automated tracking and notification system keeping customers informed
• Customer service response time under 2 hours with professional templates
• Clear return/exchange policy building customer confidence
• International shipping capability expanding market reach
• Quality control process ensuring zero defective shipments
• Positive customer feedback and reviews averaging 4.8+ stars

Ready for next step? You now have streamlined operations and excellent customer service, and can focus on scaling and optimizing your business for long-term growth.

Step 7: Scale and Optimize Your Business

Goal: Expand operations, diversify inventory, and maximize long-term profitability through systematic growth and optimization

1. Implement Business Analytics: Set up analytics tracking for sales performance, profit margins, and inventory turnover

   • Use tools like Google Analytics and inventory management software for data-driven decisions
   • Expected result: Clear visibility into profitable products, peak selling periods, and optimization opportunities

2. Diversify Product Portfolio: Expand beyond Labubu to other Pop Mart collectibles and designer toys

   • Research Molly, Skullpanda, and Hirono series for cross-selling opportunities
   • Expected result: Reduced dependency on single product line and increased average order values

3. Automate Operations: Implement automated listing tools and inventory management systems

   • Use cross-listing software to post on multiple platforms simultaneously
   • Expected result: 50% reduction in manual listing time and consistent inventory across platforms

4. Scale Supplier Relationships: Negotiate bulk purchasing agreements with verified suppliers for better pricing

   • Leverage increased order volumes for 10-20% additional discounts on wholesale prices
   • Expected result: Improved profit margins and priority access to limited edition releases

5. Expand International Markets: Set up international selling on global platforms

   • Register for eBay Global Shipping Program and Amazon international marketplaces
   • Expected result: Access to global collector markets and 30-50% revenue increase

6. Build Brand Recognition: Develop brand identity and establish yourself as a trusted Labubu expert

   • Create YouTube content and SEO-optimized blog about Labubu collecting
   • Expected result: Organic traffic growth and premium pricing acceptance due to expert reputation

7. Optimize Cash Flow: Implement inventory financing and cash flow management systems

   • Set up business line of credit for large inventory purchases during peak seasons
   • Expected result: Ability to capitalize on bulk opportunities without cash flow constraints

If automation tools are too expensive: Start with free alternatives and upgrade as revenue grows

If international expansion seems complex: Partner with international fulfillment services to handle logistics and compliance

If diversification reduces focus: Limit expansion to 2-3 related product lines initially, then scale based on performance data

You'll know you're done when: You have scalable operations with sustainable profit growth and market expansion

• Analytics system tracking key performance indicators and profitability by product line
• Diversified inventory generating 30%+ revenue from non-Labubu products
• Automated systems handling 80%+ of routine operations and listings
• Bulk supplier agreements providing 15-25% better pricing than initial rates
• International sales contributing 20%+ of total revenue
• Established brand recognition with organic traffic and premium pricing power
• Optimized cash flow supporting inventory investments and growth opportunities
• Scalable systems handling 3x current order volume without proportional effort increase

Ready for next step? You now have a scalable, profitable Labubu business with diversified revenue streams and optimized operations for long-term success.

🏆 Final Result

You Should Now Have: A profitable Labubu reselling business with reliable sourcing, authentic inventory, optimized sales channels, and scalable operations generating consistent monthly profits

What You've Accomplished:

• ✅ Market Expertise: Deep understanding of Labubu collector behavior, pricing trends, and demand patterns
• ✅ Verified Supply Chain: Established relationships with authentic suppliers and quality control processes
• ✅ Professional Sales Infrastructure: Multi-platform presence optimized for maximum visibility and conversions
• ✅ Strategic Pricing: Profitable pricing strategies yielding 50-500% markups based on rarity and market conditions
• ✅ Operational Excellence: Streamlined logistics and customer service systems ensuring 99%+ satisfaction rates
• ✅ Scalable Business Model: Automated systems and diversified inventory supporting sustainable growth

Profit Potential You've Unlocked:

• Standard Figures: $20-50 profit per unit (50-100% markup on $20-30 retail)
• Limited Editions: $100-500+ profit per unit (200-500% markup potential)
• Ultra-Rare Pieces: $1,000-150,000+ profit (documented auction results)
• Monthly Revenue Target: $2,000-10,000+ depending on inventory scale and market timing

Next Steps: Continue monitoring market trends, expand to related collectibles, and build your brand in the collectibles community

Expand Your Collectibles Empire: Now that you've mastered Labubu, apply these same principles to other Pop Mart series like Molly and Skullpanda, or branch into other designer toy brands. Your authentication expertise and supplier relationships give you a competitive advantage in any collectibles market.

Build Industry Authority: Leverage your success to become a recognized expert through YouTube content creation, affiliate marketing partnerships, and consulting services for other collectors and resellers.

Scale to Wholesale Operations: With proven success, consider wholesale distribution to other resellers, retail partnerships, or even subscription box services for collectors.

Market Evolution Adaptation: The collectibles market constantly evolves with new trends, celebrity endorsements, and cultural shifts. Your systematic approach to market research and authentication will serve you well as you adapt to new opportunities like NFT-physical hybrid collectibles or AI-generated designer toys.

Community Leadership: Consider organizing local collector meetups, hosting trading events, or creating online communities to build lasting relationships and insider access to rare pieces.

Investment Portfolio Approach: Treat your most valuable pieces as investment assets, holding them for long-term appreciation while actively trading common pieces for cash flow. This balanced approach maximizes both immediate profits and long-term wealth building.

Diversification Protection: Never rely solely on one product line or market trend. Your systematic approach allows you to quickly pivot to new opportunities while maintaining profitability across multiple collectibles categories.

Legal and Tax Optimization: As your business grows, consider formal business structure, tax optimization strategies, and business insurance to protect your assets and maximize profitability.

Technology Integration: Stay ahead by adopting new technologies like AI price prediction tools, blockchain authentication, and augmented reality marketing to maintain your competitive edge.

Congratulations! You've built a comprehensive, profitable Labubu business with the knowledge, systems, and relationships needed for long-term success in the dynamic collectibles market. Your journey from beginner to expert positions you to capitalize on future opportunities while building lasting wealth through strategic collectibles trading.