Can you send ashes in the mail

Sending ashes in the mail can be a bit tricky, but it's possible with some precautions. Here are some guidelines to consider:

Regulations:

• The United States Postal Service (USPS) allows the mailing of cremated remains, but only under specific conditions.
• The ashes must be in a sealed, leak-proof container that is clearly labeled as "Human Remains" or "Cremated Remains."
• The container must be wrapped in a protective covering, such as bubble wrap or paper, to prevent damage during transit.
• The ashes must be shipped via a trackable method, such as Priority Mail or Parcel Post, and must be insured for the full value of the contents.

Packaging:

• Use a sturdy, leak-proof container that is specifically designed for shipping cremated remains. You can purchase these containers online or at a funeral home.
• Wrap the container in bubble wrap or paper to prevent damage during transit.
• Place the wrapped container in a sturdy box that is large enough to hold the container securely.
• Seal the box with packing tape and label it clearly as "Human Remains" or "Cremated Remains."

Labeling:

• Attach a clear and concise label to the outside of the box, indicating that it contains human remains.
• Include the following information on the label:
  • "Human Remains" or "Cremated Remains"
  • The name and address of the sender
  • The name and address of the recipient
  • A statement indicating that the contents are fragile and require special handling

Shipping:

• Choose a shipping method that provides tracking and insurance, such as Priority Mail or Parcel Post.
• Consider using a shipping carrier that specializes in shipping cremated remains, such as UPS or FedEx.
• Make sure to follow the shipping carrier's specific guidelines for shipping human remains.

Cost:

• The cost of shipping ashes will depend on the weight and size of the package, as well as the shipping method chosen.
• Expect to pay around $20-$50 for shipping, depending on the distance and shipping method.

Alternatives:

• If you're not comfortable shipping ashes through the mail, you can consider other options, such as:
  • Hand-delivering the ashes to the recipient
  • Using a funeral home or crematory to transport the ashes
  • Using a specialized shipping service that handles human remains

Remember to always follow the regulations and guidelines set by the USPS and other shipping carriers when sending ashes in the mail. It's also a good idea to check with the recipient's local authorities to ensure that there are no specific regulations or restrictions on receiving cremated remains in their area.