BigBadToyStore (BBTS) has become a key player in the collectible and action figure market, with its customer base including hardcore collectors, hobbyists, and gift hunters around the world. The following BigBadToyStore review covers the full array of operations this online retailer offers, including products selection, prices, customer service or shipping.
BigBadToyStore is the best place to buy toys whether you are an experienced collector looking for its collectibles exlcusives or a casual buyer buying some gifts for your relatives, thus it would be cool if you know what BigBadToyStore has to offer before wasting those few of your pocket money. In this comprehensive review, we talk about the merits and disadvantages of shopping at BBTS and what our experience with them is like from a buyer usability perspective.
2. Company Background
Headquartered in Somerset, Wisconsin BigBadToyStore was BBB accredited on June 25, 2007 which shows well-over a decade and a half in terms of business operation. Boasting a massive selection of action figures, statues, toys and collectibles, the company has been attracting followers around the globe since 1994 — over 220.898 on Facebook to be exact!
In terms of online revenue alone, BBTS cracked $145.9 million by 2024 — highlighting its role as a dominant force in the collectibles space and the ecommerce marketplace generally. The company has have made a name for itself by focusing entirely on licensed merchandise and detaching from general toy retailers in a move towards proving the needs of adult-collectors, enthusiasts and its fanbase.
BBTS carved a niche for itself as a collector oriented online retailer, knowing that its clientele would be specifically looking to track down legitimate, high-grade items and hard-to-find figures. Given their life in the market as well and huge prevalence on social media, it is quite clear that if not known for their formal name then your average collector would be able to point to an image of those models and say “those are Kyoshos”.
3. Website Design & User Experience
Homepage Layout
Our website isn’t flashy, but it works (you are using it now) and people visit here to find cool stuff. When you land on the homepage, you can see new arrivals, pre-orders and featured items right away which is perfect for those that visit regularly to get hold of the latest releases.
Navigation
The site employs a comprehensive category system organized by:
- Product type (Action Figures, Statues, Model Kits)
- Franchise (Marvel, DC, Star Wars, Transformers, Anime)
- Manufacturer (Hot Toys, Sideshow, Bandai, Hasbro)
- Price ranges and availability status
The search functionality includes advanced filters allowing users to narrow results by scale, price range, release date, and availability status.
Loading Speed & Mobile Experience
Website performance is good on all platforms but would benefit from touch navigation and optimization for mobile. There is no doubt that the desktop version is still the preferred platform for serious browsing and purchasing.
Accessibility
While BBTS follows some basic web accessibility guidelines, the site is image-heavy and collectors with certain needs may find it hard to use. Extensive, detailed product descriptions that will empower users to make the right choice even if just the picture alone may not be sufficient.
4. Product Range
BBTS carries a massive selection of toys ranging from action figures and statues to collectibles from such properties as Marvel, DC Comics, Transformers, Star Wars, Movies and TV Shows.
Core Product Categories:
- Action Figures: 6-inch, 12-inch, and specialty scales from major manufacturers
- Statues & Collectibles: Premium pieces from Sideshow, Prime 1, and other high-end producers
- Model Kits: Gundam, Star Wars, and other buildable collectibles
- Funko Products: Extensive Funko Pop selection and exclusives
- Japanese Imports: Anime figures, nendoroids, and specialty Japanese collectibles
- Vintage & Retro: Classic toys and reissues of popular lines
Popular Brands Available:
- Marvel and DC superhero lines
- Star Wars Black Series and Vintage Collection
- Transformers (Studio Series, Masterpiece, etc.)
- Anime properties (Dragon Ball, Naruto, One Piece)
- Horror movie collectibles
- Gaming merchandise (Street Fighter, Tekken, etc.)
Limited Editions & Exclusives
BBTS usually gets them as exclusive color variants and even limited editions that include special packaging, extra accessories or more. The exclusives are have been sought after heavily on the secondary market.
Pre-Order System
Pre-orders allows customers to buy upcoming releases months in advance. IS BBTS MAKING YOU PAY MONEY DOWN FOR PRE-ORDERS YES OR NO: Pre-order prices are typically not charged until the items ship, giving collectors some flexibility on budgeting releases across various product lines.
5. Pricing & Value
Price Competitiveness
BBTS pricing generally sits in the middle to upper range compared to other online retailers. While not always the cheapest option, they often justify higher prices through:
- Guaranteed authentic products
- Reliable stock fulfillment
- Superior packaging for collectors
- Flexible pre-order policies
Special Deals & Discounts
- Pile of Loot: A unique system allowing customers to combine multiple orders for shipping savings
- Clearance Section: Regular markdowns on slower-moving inventory
- Bundle Deals: Occasional manufacturer promotions and multi-item discounts
- Newsletter Exclusives: Subscribers receive early access to sales and special offers
Value Assessment
For collectors prioritizing reliability and condition over absolute lowest price, BBTS offers solid value. The peace of mind regarding authenticity and packaging often justifies the premium pricing structure.
6. Shipping & Delivery
Domestic Shipping Options
- Standard shipping (5-7 business days)
- Expedited shipping (3-5 business days)
- Express shipping (1-3 business days)
- Local pickup available at their Wisconsin location
International Shipping
BBTS ships internationally to many countries, though international customers should expect:
- Higher shipping costs
- Longer delivery times (7-21 business days)
- Potential customs fees and import duties
- Limited insurance coverage for international orders
Packaging Quality
One of BBTS’s strongest selling points is their packaging expertise. Items arrive in protective materials with careful attention to maintaining mint condition – crucial for collectors concerned about resale value or display quality.
Free Shipping Thresholds
Free domestic shipping typically kicks in at $79+ orders, with the Pile of Loot system helping customers reach this threshold by combining multiple smaller orders.
7. Payment Options
Available Payment Methods
- Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
- PayPal
- BBTS gift cards
- Store credit for returns/exchanges
Payment Security
The site utilizes standard SSL encryption and PCI compliance for secure transactions. Credit card information is not stored on their servers for security purposes.
Pre-Order Payment Policy
One of BBTS’s most customer-friendly policies is their no-money-down pre-order system. Customers are only charged when items ship, providing budget flexibility and the ability to cancel if circumstances change.
8. Customer Service
Communication Channels
- Email support (primary method)
- Phone support during business hours
- Help ticket system through website
- Social media responses (Facebook, Instagram)
Response Quality
Customer feedback indicates that BigBadToyStore customers appreciate their fair pricing and excellent service, though response times can vary during peak periods like major convention seasons or holiday rushes.
Return & Exchange Policies
- 30-day return window for most items
- Original packaging required for returns
- Restocking fees may apply to certain items
- Defective items replaced promptly
- Pre-order cancellations typically processed without penalty
9. Customer Reviews & Reputation
Overall Sentiment
BigBadToyStore maintains a rating of 3.5 stars from 132 reviews on Sitejabber, indicating that most customers are generally satisfied with their purchases. Trustpilot shows feedback from 236 customers, providing a substantial sample size for evaluation.
Common Positive Feedback:
- Extensive product selection and rare finds
- Excellent packaging protecting collectibles
- Reliable pre-order fulfillment
- Authentic merchandise guaranteed
- Helpful customer service for issues
Recurring Complaints:
- Higher prices compared to some competitors
- Shipping costs for smaller orders
- Occasional delays in pre-order release dates
- Limited international shipping options
- Website could use modernization
Community Reputation
Within collector communities on Reddit, Facebook groups, and specialized forums, BBTS maintains a generally positive reputation as a reliable, if not always cheapest, source for collectibles.
10. Pros & Cons
Pros:
✅ Massive Selection: One of the largest online inventories of collectibles and action figures ✅ No-Money-Down Pre-Orders: Budget-friendly pre-order system with easy cancellation ✅ Superior Packaging: Industry-leading protection for collectibles during shipping ✅ Pile of Loot System: Innovative shipping consolidation saving customers money ✅ Authentic Merchandise: No concerns about bootlegs or counterfeit items ✅ Established Reputation: Over 15 years of reliable service in the collector community ✅ Exclusive Items: Regular access to store-exclusive variants and limited editions
Cons:
❌ Higher Pricing: Often more expensive than discount retailers or direct imports ❌ Limited Mobile Experience: Website design favors desktop browsing ❌ International Shipping Costs: Expensive shipping to customers outside North America ❌ Pre-Order Delays: Manufacturer delays can push back expected release dates ❌ Website Design: Interface feels dated compared to modern e-commerce standards ❌ Limited Payment Options: No buy-now-pay-later services like Klarna or Affirm
11. Competitor Comparison
Entertainment Earth
- Similarities: Large selection, pre-orders, collector focus
- BBTS Advantage: Better packaging, Pile of Loot system
- Entertainment Earth Advantage: More frequent sales, mint-on-card guarantee
Sideshow Collectibles
- Similarities: High-end collectibles, exclusive items
- BBTS Advantage: Broader product range, better customer service reputation
- Sideshow Advantage: Manufacturer-direct relationship, payment plans
HobbyLink Japan
- Similarities: Japanese imports, pre-order system
- BBTS Advantage: Domestic shipping for US customers, English customer service
- HobbyLink Japan Advantage: Direct Japanese market access, lower prices on imports
Unique Selling Points of BBTS:
- Pile of Loot shipping consolidation system
- No upfront payment required for pre-orders
- Consistent focus on packaging quality
- Balanced inventory across multiple collecting categories
12. Final Verdict
BigBadToyStore serves as an excellent option for collectors who prioritize reliability, authenticity, and product condition over absolute lowest pricing. The company has built a solid reputation through consistent service and understanding the specific needs of adult collectors.
Best For:
- Serious collectors concerned about product authenticity and condition
- Customers who appreciate flexible pre-order policies
- Buyers seeking hard-to-find or exclusive items
- Those willing to pay premium for superior packaging and service
Not Ideal For:
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking absolute lowest prices
- International customers due to shipping costs
- Casual toy buyers who don’t need collector-grade service
- Mobile-first shoppers preferring modern app experiences
Overall Rating: 4.2/5 Stars
The combination of extensive selection, reliable service, and collector-focused policies outweighs the higher pricing structure for most serious collectors. While improvements in website design and international shipping would enhance the experience, BBTS remains a solid choice in the collectibles marketplace.
13. FAQ Section
Does BBTS ship internationally?
Yes, BigBadToyStore ships to many international destinations, though shipping costs are typically higher and delivery times longer than domestic orders.
Are pre-orders refundable?
Yes, pre-orders can typically be cancelled without penalty since no payment is required upfront. However, policies may vary for exclusive or limited items.
How long does shipping take?
Domestic shipping ranges from 1-7 business days depending on chosen method. International shipping typically takes 7-21 business days.
Is BigBadToyStore legit?
Yes, BBTS is a legitimate business with over 15 years of operation, BBB accreditation since 2007, and a strong reputation in the collector community.
What is the Pile of Loot system?
Pile of Loot allows customers to combine multiple orders into a single shipment, reducing overall shipping costs while providing flexibility in purchasing timing.
14. Pre-Order System Deep Dive
Payment Structure
BBTS’s no-money-down pre-order system sets it apart from many competitors. Customers can secure upcoming releases without immediate payment, with charges only occurring when items ship. This approach provides excellent budget flexibility for collectors managing multiple pre-orders across different release dates.
Release Date Management
The company provides estimated release dates but clearly communicates that these are manufacturer projections subject to change. Regular updates keep customers informed of delays or early arrivals, maintaining transparency throughout the process.
Cancellation Flexibility
Pre-order cancellations are generally accommodated without penalty, though exclusive items may have different policies. This flexibility reduces purchase anxiety and encourages customers to pre-order items they’re considering.
15. Loyalty Program & Rewards
Currently, BBTS doesn’t operate a traditional points-based loyalty program. However, they provide value to repeat customers through:
Store Credit System
Returns and exchanges often result in store credit, which never expires and can be applied to future purchases.
Newsletter Benefits
To lend a free going with bunch every time we discharge new product, sales and pre-arranges before our standard email.
Social Media Perks
In addition to those perks, following BBTS on social media gives fans of the specialty shop exclusive flash sales chances, contest entries and an inside look at things going down at current toy shows.
16. Exclusive Items & Limited Editions
BBTS Exclusives
Exclusive editions have been frequently offered by the store, which are different due to exclusive packaging, bonus additional parts or simply recolored releases. Previous exclusives ranges from Limited Edition Dragon Ball statues to anniversary commemoratives.
Limited Edition Management
BBTS handles limited releases efficiently, often implementing purchase limits per customer to ensure broader availability within their customer base.
Resale Value Considerations
BBTS exclusives typically maintain or increase value in secondary markets, making them attractive to collectors considering long-term investment potential.
17. Sales & Promotions
Seasonal Sales
- Black Friday/Cyber Monday: Significant discounts across multiple categories
- Holiday clearance: Post-Christmas inventory reduction sales
- Convention specials: Timed promotions during major toy conventions
Clearance Section Strategy
The clearance section regularly features slow-moving inventory at reduced prices, providing opportunities for budget-conscious collectors to acquire items at lower costs.
Newsletter & Email Promotions
Subscribers receive exclusive coupon codes and early access to sales events, making newsletter subscription valuable for frequent shoppers.
18. Packaging & Collectible Care
Protection Standards
BBTS has built its reputation partly on superior packaging protecting collectibles during transit. Items arrive in appropriate protective materials with attention to maintaining mint condition crucial for collectors.
Condition Grading
While not offering formal grading services, BBTS maintains consistent quality standards ensuring items arrive in expected condition for collector purposes.
Collector Tips from BBTS:
- Inspect items immediately upon arrival
- Maintain original packaging for resale value
- Store items in climate-controlled environments
- Handle figures minimally to preserve joint integrity
19. Website Features
Account Management
User accounts provide order history, pre-order tracking, and saved payment information for streamlined purchasing.
Wishlist Functionality
Customers can maintain wishlists for future reference and receive notifications when wished items go on sale or become available.
Stock Notifications
Back-in-stock alerts help customers secure items that were previously sold out, particularly useful for popular releases.
20. Social Media & Community Engagement
Platform Presence
With over 220,000 Facebook followers, BBTS maintains active social media engagement across multiple platforms including Instagram and YouTube.
Content Strategy
Social media content includes:
- New arrival showcases
- Behind-the-scenes convention coverage
- Unboxing videos and product reveals
- Community interaction and customer spotlights
Community Building
BBTS actively engages with collector communities, responding to questions and sharing fan content, fostering brand loyalty and community connection.
21. Sustainability & Ethics
Packaging Considerations
While focused on protection, BBTS could improve environmental impact through more sustainable packaging materials without compromising product safety.
Ethical Sourcing
The company works with licensed manufacturers and authorized distributors, ensuring legitimate business practices and supporting original creators and license holders.
Corporate Responsibility
As a smaller specialty retailer, BBTS’s corporate social responsibility efforts are limited but include support for local Wisconsin community initiatives.
22. Buyer Tips & Strategies
Optimal Purchase Timing
- Convention Seasons: New announcements and pre-orders
- Post-Holiday: Clearance opportunities
- End of Quarter: Occasional sales to move inventory
Deal Identification Strategies
- Monitor clearance section regularly
- Subscribe to newsletters for exclusive codes
- Utilize Pile of Loot for shipping savings
- Follow social media for flash sales
Pre-Order Best Practices
- Research manufacturer reliability before committing
- Understand estimated release dates are subject to change
- Take advantage of no-penalty cancellation policies
- Balance pre-order commitments with available budget
Avoiding Common Disappointments
- Read product descriptions thoroughly
- Understand scale and manufacturer differences
- Check release dates and prepare for potential delays
- Consider total cost including shipping when comparing prices
This comprehensive BigBadToyStore review provides collectors and enthusiasts with detailed insights into one of the hobby’s most established retailers. Whether you’re considering your first BBTS purchase or evaluating them against competitors, this analysis offers the information needed to make informed decisions about your collecting strategy.