@tonitonichopper:
Would happen to recommend any sites?
EDIT: Anyone seen this? So cute~
Man, if I didn't have so many other stuffed Choppers, I'd buy him in a heartbeat.
As far as sites, my favorite is CD Japan for items like CDs (go figure!), calendars, and P.O.P.s. Unfortunately, I've never seen them carry the various gashopan figures. They are great communication-wise and they really pack items with care.
Akadot Retail is another I like for OP books (manga, data books, and others). Their prices might seem a bit high at times, but they are based in the US. They are very customer oriented, and their shipping is incredibly quick. They also tracked down and stocked "One Piece 10th Treasures" so you gotta love them for that!
Until this last round of POPs I'd never had an issue with HLJ and have purchased several gashopan sets from them. I still have one or two on preorder with them. I think they were probably just really overwhelmed with the POP orders.
As far as shipping, for larger, more expensive items I use EMS shipping. Yes, you may pay out the nose for it, but to me it is worth it. I can track my package, it's insured, and it arrives very quickly. Mail tends to take longer to get to my area anyway (I'm in Alaska) so if something is sent SAL it could literally take months.