Shipping remains domestically
Transporting human cremated remains can be complicated and can require a variety of documents and authorizations. The best and simplest approach is to have aCremation, a licensed funeral establishment specializing in direct cremation, make the shipping arrangements to ensure all requirements are met.
- The U.S. Postal Service ships cremated remains within the United States, and they must be sent via Priority Mail Express.
- UPS, FedEx and DHL currently do not handle the transport of cremated remains.
- Most airlines transport cremated remains as air cargo, carry-on or checked luggage but you should check with the individual airline for specific guidelines. Some airlines may require advance notice.
- A burial transit permit must accompany cremated remains.
Shipping internationally
- If taking cremated remains internationally, contact the Embassy of that country for any special requirements.
- A burial transit permit must accompany cremated remains.
-
Cremated remains are permitted to be mailed to an international address if all requirements are met:
-
Cremated remains are not prohibited by the other country. You can verify if your destination country will accept human remains by checking the Individual Country Listing in the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, International Mail Manual (IMM).
- You must use Priority Mail Express International service.
- You must complete the customs declaration form.
- Remains must be packaged in a funeral urn.
-