Can a person's ashes be mailed

Yes, it is possible to mail a person's ashes, but there are certain regulations and considerations to keep in mind. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. Check with the funeral home: Before mailing a person's ashes, it's essential to check with the funeral home or crematorium that handled the cremation to ensure they are allowed to release the ashes for mailing.
  2. Compliance with regulations: The ashes must be packaged and labeled in compliance with the United States Postal Service (USPS) regulations. This typically involves using a sturdy, leak-proof container and labeling it as "Human Remains" or "Cremated Remains."
  3. Special handling: The USPS requires special handling for packages containing human remains. This means that the package must be marked as "Human Remains" and handled with extra care to prevent damage or leakage during transit.
  4. Shipping restrictions: Some countries have restrictions on importing human remains, so it's essential to check with the destination country's customs regulations before mailing the ashes.
  5. Cost: Mailing ashes can be expensive, especially if you need to use a specialized shipping service. The cost will depend on the weight, size, and destination of the package.
  6. Alternative options: If you're unable to mail the ashes, you may want to consider alternative options, such as:
    • Scattering the ashes in a special location, such as a favorite park or beach.
    • Burying the ashes in a cemetery or family plot.
    • Keeping the ashes in an urn or container at home.
    • Donating the ashes to a scientific or educational institution.

Some popular options for mailing ashes include:

  1. USPS: The USPS offers a special service for shipping human remains, which includes extra handling and care to ensure safe transport.
  2. UPS: UPS also offers a special service for shipping human remains, which includes tracking and insurance options.
  3. FedEx: FedEx has a special service for shipping human remains, which includes tracking and insurance options.
  4. Specialty shipping companies: There are also companies that specialize in shipping human remains, such as Cremation Shipping Services and Ashes to Ashes.

It's essential to research and compare the services and costs of different shipping options to find the best fit for your needs.