Transporting Cremated Remains
Transporting cremated remains involves adhering to specific legal and procedural requirements to ensure the
process is respectful and compliant with regulations. Here’s a general guide for transporting cremated remains:
Documentation and Permissions
By Air
Following these guidelines ensures that the transport of cremated remains is conducted with the utmost respect and in compliance with legal requirements.
process is respectful and compliant with regulations. Here’s a general guide for transporting cremated remains:
Documentation and Permissions
- Death Certificate: Obtain a certified copy of the death certificate.
- Cremation Certificate: Acquire a cremation certificate from the crematory that performed the cremation.
- Permit for Disposition: Some jurisdictions require a permit for the disposition of the remains.
- Letter of Consent: If the remains are being transported internationally, a letter of consent from the next of kin or the person authorized to make funeral arrangements may be needed.
By Air
- Check Airline Policies: Each airline has its own policies regarding the transport of cremated remains. Contact the airline in advance to understand their specific requirements.
- Proper Packaging: Use a sturdy, leak-proof container. Airlines often recommend using a temporary container for security screening and a more permanent one for the final transport.
- TSA Requirements: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that the container be able to pass through X-ray machines. Containers made of materials such as wood or plastic are generally preferred over metal for this reason.
- Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage: It’s advisable to carry the remains as carry-on baggage to prevent loss or damage. Most airlines allow this, but verification with the airline is necessary.
- Postal Service Guidelines: Use Canada Post or the United States Postal Service (USPS) if mailing within the United States, as these are legal methods for shipping cremated remains. Use acceptable services such as Priority and Xpresspost and confirm with the postal agent.
- You’re required to ensure the destination and return address are correct and complete. The inner container must be packed in a sealed container (urn or otherwise) and placed inside an outer container. You must protect breakable inner receptacles with enough packing material. The outer container is durable and sift-proof. A certificate of cremation, issued by the proper authority, must accompany the remains. Clearly label the package with the appropriate shipping information and enclose the certificate in a plastic envelope and secure it to the top of the parcel.
- Consulate/Embassy Regulations: Contact the consulate or embassy of the destination country to understand their specific requirements and obtain any necessary permits or documentation.
- Translation of Documents: Some countries may require translations of the death certificate and cremation certificate.
- Customs Declarations: Be prepared to declare the cremated remains with customs at both the departure and arrival countries.
- Funeral Home Assistance: Our funeral service providers offer services to assist with the transport of cremated remains and can handle much of the paperwork and logistics.
- Local Laws: Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding the scattering or burial of cremated remains at the destination.
Following these guidelines ensures that the transport of cremated remains is conducted with the utmost respect and in compliance with legal requirements.