Complete Guide to Transporting a Deceased Person - Within the U.S. or Overseas
When You Need to Ship a Body: Understanding Funeral Shipping 101
If you need to ship a loved one’s remains to return them home for a funeral or burial, our experts are here to help. With one call to our Expert Team, we can begin arrangements to transfer your loved one into our care.
We offer Funeral Shipping Services both domestically and Internationally, and we handle the process every step of the way.
Once your loved one is in our care, we organize the preparation of the body, the transportation of the body in a professional and dignified manner, and the delivery of the deceased to his or her final destination.
Funeral shipping can seem complex, but our Team has years of experience handling the transfer of remains. So, let us guide you through the process. We take care of all the legal documentation, coordinate with the airlines or mortuary transport company, and get the best prices on funeral shipping services.
Call Us Now – We are Here to Help You Return Your Loved One Home.
Understand the Process of Transporting a Deceased Loved One within the U.S. – Domestic Funeral Shipping.
The transportation of a deceased person within the U.S. typically falls under two categories:
Local Transportation: For example, moving a deceased person from a hospital or home to a funeral home within the same city or county.
Interstate Transportation: Moving a deceased person across state lines involves additional legal requirements and permits.
Call (877) 347-8086 to speak with a funeral shipping advisor now.
Mortuary Ground Transportation between States
Moving the deceased by ground transportation can be a reasonably cost-efficient solution if the deceased only needs to be transported locally and the distance between the states is not too far. Most funeral homes or mortuary transport companies offer ground transportation at a per-loaded mile rate.
This varies by funeral home but is usually between $1.00 and $4.00 per loaded mile.
If you calculate the distance of the journey, you can work out a base cost for what this form of transportation would cost.
If the distance is too far, rail transportation is another option. This would incur a rail shipment fee from the embarkation station to the destination.
Air transportation between states in the U.S.
If the distance between states is too far, then transportation would need to be by air. Several airline companies offer human remains cargo shipping.
A funeral home that offers mortuary shipping will have a contract with an airline (or several different airlines) as a ‘known mortuary shipper.’ This means they can quickly obtain airline freight fees for a journey and register the shipment of the human remains.
The deceased needs to be specially prepared for airline freight of mortal remains. This requires embalming or preparing with dry ice and using a special air freight tray to hold the casket for transportation. Shipment declarations must also be made, and there are legal requirements for moving a deceased person across state lines.
An Overview of the Legal Requirements and Permits to Transport a Deceased Person within North America.
Laws vary by state, but the following are standard legal requirements and permits for transporting a deceased person within the United States and Canada.
Obtaining the Death Certificate
A certified copy of the death certificate, issued by the local or state vital records office, is required for transporting a deceased person. This document is also needed to arrange transportation, receive permits, and handle other legal matters.
The issuance of a Burial Transit Permit
A Burial Transit Permit (sometimes called a Disposition Permit or Transit Permit) is generally required to move a deceased person, especially across state lines. This permit is issued by the local health department or registrar's office where the death occurred.
Your funeral shipper or funeral home will typically obtain the burial transit permit on behalf of the family. The permit verifies that the death has been recorded and that the body is safe for transport.
Understanding Embalming Requirements to Transport the Deceased
State laws regarding embalming vary and can impact transport arrangements:
Embalming: Some states require embalming if the deceased will be transported across state lines or if the body will not reach its final destination within 24 to 48 hours after death.
If embalming is not desired or required, other options include refrigeration or the use of a sealed container.
Container Requirements for Mortuary Transportation:
The type of container required depends on the transportation method:
Ground Transportation: Generally requires a secure, leak-proof container.
Air Transportation: The airline may require a hermetically sealed casket or an air-tray (an outer container for protection during flight). The funeral home can guide you on the specific container requirements for air travel.
How much does it cost to ship a dead body within the United States?
There are two elements to working out the total cost of transporting a deceased person within the U.S.
1. The Professional Service Fee charged by the ‘first call’ or dispatching funeral home at the place of passing.
This is the fee to collect the deceased from the place of death and prepare the remains for shipment. A funeral home or Mortuary Shipper will charge a fee, sometimes called a “Ship-out,” or transfer remains to another funeral home.
Professional Service Fee: This fee covers administrative services, coordination, and permits and can range from $1,295 to $3,500.
Body Preparation Fees: Embalming costs range from $500 to $900. If embalming is not required, refrigeration fees may be around $50 to $100 daily.
Airline Handling Fees: A funeral home may charge handling fees for arranging and coordinating with airlines, which can add $100 to $300.
2. The Freight or Transportation Costs. This will differ depending on whether it is ground or air transportation.
The cost of transporting a deceased loved one varies depending on distance, transportation method, and other logistical factors. Here’s an outline of typical expenses:
Typical Ground Transportation Costs for U.S. Mortuary Transfers
Local Transfers: The cost of moving the body from the place of death to a local funeral home (or local range transport) ranges from $200 to $500.
Interstate Ground Transport: For longer ground distances, funeral homes may charge $2.00 to $4.00 per mile.
Typical Air Transportation Costs for Domestic Funeral Cargo Shipments
Domestic Flights: The cost to transport a body by air within the U.S. typically ranges from $700 to $3,500, depending on distance and airline. This cost generally includes handling by the airline but not the funeral home fees.
Additional Charges: Some airlines may have extra fees for embalming, casket requirements, or special containers.
It is important to note that ONLY a known shipper can arrange to ship a dead body by cargo. A family cannot deal directly with the airline. This is because regulations of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) require that only known shippers who have been approved can make shipment arrangements.
How can you arrange affordable domestic funeral shipping?
Unfortunately, transporting a deceased person across the United States can be expensive. In fact, it is often more costly than flying First Class!
If you need to arrange mortuary transportation at an affordable cost, you should compare some prices and services. Ground transportation will likely be your best option if the distance is not too far.
Some Considerations For Assistance with Funeral Transportation Services
Military and Veteran Benefits: If the deceased was a veteran, the family may qualify for assistance through the Department of Veterans Affairs, which can help with transportation costs for burial in a national cemetery.
Insurance and Financial Aid: Some life insurance policies or Travel Protection Plans cover funeral and transportation expenses. Additionally, state or county assistance may be available for low-income families.
Purchasing a death care Travel Protection Plan can protect you from expensive funeral shipping expenses.
A protection against possible funeral transportation expenses can be achieved with a low-cost assurance plan that covers any individual who may travel away from their residence in the U.S.
It provides complete coverage for funeral shipping expenses to return a U.S. resident to their home location should a death occur 75 miles or further away.
This is a simple enrollment, one-time payment of $450 that covers all services and expenses to transport the deceased home or arrange a cremation at the place of death & transport the cremated remains home.
This plan provides complete, affordable provisions for funeral expenses for people who travel away from home. It provides full cover both within the U.S. and for worldwide travel.
Call the Travel Plan Team at (646) 374-4212 for more information or Enroll Here.
Transporting a deceased loved one within the U.S. requires thoughtful planning, coordination with funeral professionals, and adherence to state laws and permit requirements. Understanding the necessary documentation, preparation needs, and associated costs can help ease the process during a difficult time.
By working with our funeral shipping team or a trusted funeral home, you can ensure your loved one’s remains are respectfully and safely transported to their final resting place.
Understand the Process of Transporting a Deceased Loved One Overseas – International Funeral Shipping
Transporting a deceased loved one from the U.S. to another country involves navigating complex regulations, permits, and logistical arrangements. The process requires careful coordination with funeral homes, consulates, airlines, and other entities to ensure the remains are safely and legally transported to the destination country. This guide covers each step, including legal requirements, permits, and costs associated with international transport.
International repatriation, or the transport of deceased remains across borders, is typically coordinated by funeral homes specializing in international transfers. The process generally involves:
Working with a U.S.-based Funeral Home or Experienced Funeral Transportation Agent
Many U.S. funeral homes are experienced in handling the logistics and legal requirements for international transportation. But, it is essential to ensure they have the contacts to deliver prompt and professional service.
Funeral service providers often employ a specialized mortuary logistics company to handle the transfer. Trade companies such as Inman Shipping or National Mortuary Services (NMS) do not deal with the family but provide the service to funeral home professionals.
Co-ordinating the Transportation Method
Air transportation is the most common method for long-distance international repatriation. This is where experienced funeral service providers will already be registered as a ‘Known Shipper’ with the airlines and can quickly coordinate routes.
Liaising with a Funeral Home in the Destination Country
A receiving funeral home will collect the remains upon arrival and handle any customs and legal requirements in the destination country.
It can be imperative to use the services of an experienced and professional funeral company specializing in International funeral shipping, as time can be of the essence in gathering all the Embassy or Consulate documents and knowing the requirements for funeral cargo shipping import for the destination country.
Legal Requirements and Necessary Permits for International Repatriation of the Deceased
Each country has its own regulations for receiving deceased remains, but the following documentation is generally required for international transport.
Death Certificate
A certified copy of the death certificate is essential for international transportation and is used to prove the death and identity of the deceased. This document is issued by the local vital records office where the death occurred.
Embalming or Cremation Certificate
Most countries require the body to be embalmed for transport, ensuring health and safety during long-distance travel. A certification of embalming from the funeral home or mortuary is typically required. Alternatively, cremated remains may be transported without embalming, but a cremation certificate will be necessary.
Burial Transit Permit
A Burial Transit Permit (or Disposition Permit) is required to transport a body across borders legally. This permit is issued by the local health department or registrar’s office in the jurisdiction where the death occurred.
Non-Contagious Disease Letter
Some countries require a statement, often called a “Non-Contagious Disease Letter” or “Letter of No Communicable Disease,” confirming that the deceased did not die from a contagious disease. A medical examiner or the attending physician may need to sign this document.
Consular Mortuary Certificate
The consulate of the destination country issues a Consular Mortuary Certificate. This certificate allows the body to be transported into the country and often serves as a customs clearance document. Most consulates also require the submission of additional documents, such as the death certificate, embalming certificate, and burial transit permit.
Deceased’s Passport and Identification
A valid passport or other form of identification for the deceased is typically required to prove their citizenship and identity.
Communicating with Consulates and Embassies to Obtain the Required Documents
Each country has its own set of regulations for the repatriation of remains. A known International Mortuary Shipper will usually have established contacts with most Consulates they deal with regularly.
The consulate will guide specific requirements, documents needed, and any applicable fees. They may also need to authenticate documents for use in their country.
If you need to clarify any information directly with a consulate, you can find contact details for foreign consulates in the U.S. through the U.S. Department of State or the consulate’s website. Consulates are usually located in major U.S. cities, with many embassies in Washington, D.C.
How much does it cost to ship a dead body to another country?
The cost of International Funeral Shipping is more expensive. As mentioned, it is a more complex process that requires more time from the funeral director. Also, there can be additional fees for the Embassy paperwork and the shipment tray requirements for the destination country.
The total cost for an International Funeral Shipping Service will include the following fees:
Professional Service Fee: Funeral homes often charge a flat fee, ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, for coordinating international transport. This fee covers the arrangement of permits, document preparation, and transportation logistics.
Embalming and Preparation: Embalming services generally cost $500 to $800. If refrigeration is required instead, it may cost approximately $50 to $100 daily.
Sealed Casket and Air Tray: The cost of a hermetically sealed casket can range from $1,000 to $5,000, while an air tray or protective container may add $100 to $500.
Airline Transport Costs: Airlines typically charge between $2,000 and $10,000 to transport a deceased person internationally, depending on the distance, weight of the casket, specific airline fees, and available routes.
Consular Mortuary Certificate Fee: The cost varies by country but ranges from $50 to $200.
Authentication and Translation of Death-related Documents: As required by the destination country, additional fees may apply for document verification, translation, and notary services.
Receiving Funeral Home Fees in Destination Country
You will require the services of a funeral director at the destination (inbound) airport to meet and receive the deceased’s inbound cargo arrival. Fees for receiving the body in the destination country and handling customs clearance may range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on local rates and the services provided.
Why Employ the Services of a Specialized Mortuary Shipper or Professional Repatriation Services?
In addition to funeral homes, specialized repatriation companies can handle international transport and may provide comprehensive services, including language assistance and cultural support. They arrange everything for you.
Time IS of the essence if a body needs to be transported internationally. One call to an International Funeral Shipping Provider and they will immediately set the ball rolling.
Arrangements are made to collect the deceased from the place of death and move them to a funeral facility. They ensure the correct preparation for transportation, including a sealer casket and an ‘approved’ receiving country shipping container.
They handle all the bureaucracy, coordinate all local, state, and receiving country consulate paperwork, and book all international flights. As ‘Known Shippers’ with major airlines, a Funeral Shipping Provider can easily confirm flight availability and often has discounted programs.
An experienced funeral shipper will be versant with shipping windows and after-hours release processes, ensuring they can transport your loved one home as speedily as possible.
The specialized team handling the funeral shipping will also liaise with the receiving country or state funeral provider to ensure a seamless transportation process. They also handle the delivery and supervision of the deceased’s international or domestic flight.
The export/import of human remains must meet the regulations of both the disembarking and receiving countries. A certified English translation of the death certificate, written authorization from local authorities to remove the body, and a certificate of embalming must accompany the body.
Affordable remains transportation: Arranging a direct cremation at the place of death and transporting cremated remains
If the costs for transporting the deceased's body seem too expensive and you either cannot or do not wish to incur that expense to repatriate your loved one’s remains, you may wish to consider cremation at the place of death.
The cremated remains can then be shipped back home at a reduced cost. A basic direct cremation can usually be arranged for around $1,000 (depending on the state/country of death), and the shipping of cremated remains costs much less as it is a much smaller-weight freight item.
The DFS Memorials Network of Affordable Cremation Providers can help you locate a local low-cost direct cremation service.
Search for a Local Provider ->
Cremated remains can be carried on as hand luggage on most airlines, although you must carefully comply with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines.
Cremated remains MUST be transported in a temporary container that can pass through TSA x-ray machines. This container should be constructed of wood, plastic, cardboard, or non-lead-based ceramic.
The TSA personnel are NOT permitted to open an urn to check the contents. Therefore, if a container does not pass through the X-ray, it will not be allowed as a carry-on. Most reputable funeral homes and cremation urn suppliers familiar with this legislation will be able to provide a known TSA-compliant container for transportation.
Cremated remains can be transported by the U.S. Postal Service so long as they are correctly packaged.
Other Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral Transportation
How is the deceased prepared for transportation?
The deceased is either embalmed or sheltered in refrigerated storage and shipped on dry ice. The body is placed in a casket or suitable (and approved) container for transportation. All the legal paperwork must accompany the body during transportation.
How long does it take to arrange to transport the deceased overseas after death?
This depends on the speedy completion of the Consulate approval and paperwork. If there are no complications, completing all the requirements will usually take about 5 business days.
Can a barometric or oversized deceased body be transported?
We have a growing obese population, and according to National Mortuary Shipping, in 10 years, nearly half of all burials will require oversized caskets and facilities to manage an overweight body.
Transporting an oversized body requires a larger vehicle, special lifting equipment, wider doors, and a stronger chassis.
Most commercial airlines that offer funeral shipping have a cut-off weight of 500 pounds. If the deceased weighed more than 500 pounds and requires shipping, it could be more problematic and more expensive!
What is an air tray?
This is a special container that the airlines and the TSA require a body to be placed inside for shipment on an airplane. It is specially designed to be robust and protect the deceased during the freight, and it is also airtight to prevent any leakages for health and safety purposes.
Can a family transport a dead body over state lines?
This can depend on the state. Certain states will allow transportation without embalming, and 42 states do not legally require you to employ a funeral director to conduct a funeral. You may need to obtain a permit to transport.
Airline Mortal Remains Transportation
Airline carriers that specialize in Mortuary Shipping Cargo Services:
American Airlines Jim Wilson Service: Dedicated help desk for funeral homes, offering scheduled service to 250 cities in 40 countries, special ramps at larger AA Cargo facilities & shorter drop-off times.
Delta Cargo ‘Delta Cares’ service & Fallen Soldier Program: Also offer considerate rates for bereavement travel and allow the transportation of a casket spray at no extra charge.
Southwest Airlines Cargo: Southwest Support provides mortuary shipping services across the Southwest network of destinations apart from Interline or Road Feeder destinations.
Accompanying the deceased during mortuary transportation
Most mortuary shipments go on commercial flights as cargo, so if you are traveling with the remains, you should be able to accompany your loved one on the final journey on the same flight. Of course, this depends on the availability of seats, but some airlines still try to accommodate bereavement travel and will try to make special arrangements in the circumstances.
Transporting a deceased loved one requires careful planning, attention to detail, and coordination with funeral homes, consulates, and airlines. Families can ensure a smooth and respectful process by understanding the necessary permits, legal requirements, and costs. Partnering with experienced professionals can help ease the burden, allowing families to focus on honoring their loved one’s memory.
