Can I Transport My Loved One’s Body to the Crematory Myself?

Yes, you can transport your loved one’s body to the crematory yourself in many jurisdictions, but some considerations must be taken regarding legal and logistical factors. Regulations vary by state; some states require that only licensed professionals can handle your loved one after death. However, some states allow the family to handle the transport if they have the death certificate, a burial transit permit, a compliant container, and a method for refrigeration or preservation. Additionally, you will need to have a vehicle that is suitable for securely transporting your loved one. 

While it is possible to transport your loved one to the crematory on your own, it is crucial to ensure you are adequately prepared and aware of all of the rules that must be adhered to within your state or across state lines. Funeral directors are also helpful in guiding cooling logistics, streamlining some of the more complex paperwork, and coordinating with the crematory. Additionally, most crematories need advance notice prior to the transport of your loved one to their facilities. Taking these factors into consideration, it is highly recommended to consult with the funeral home and funeral directors or other professional services to ensure regulatory compliance if you choose to transport your loved one’s body to the crematory. 

Sources

“Transporting a Deceased Loved One”. Bissler and Sons. https://www.bisslerandsons.com/blog-posts/9660/transporting-a-deceased-loved-one 

“Transporting a Body Over State Lines: Navigating After Death”. Earth. https://earthfuneral.com/resources/transporting-a-body-state-lines 

“Cremation Laws and How They Affect Arranging a Cremation”. US Funerals Online. https://www.us-funerals.com/understanding-cremation-laws-and-how-they-affect-arranging-a-cremation/