Families sometimes find it surprising that the container matters as much as the paperwork. An airline can refuse a shipment that is not in an acceptable container, regardless of how complete the documents are.
What airlines look for
Requirements differ by carrier, but the general principles are consistent. The remains must be in a container that is sealed, leak-proof and strong enough to be handled as cargo. As one example, Alaska Air Cargo states that it requires a sealed, leak-proof inner container placed inside an outer shipping container. Another carrier may specify different construction, so the specific airline’s policy should always be checked.
Leak-proof containment
The same principle appears in the rules for importing remains into the United States. The CDC states that all non-cremated remains must be fully contained within a leak-proof container, a requirement that does not apply to cremated remains.
Caskets and air-transport containers
Families often assume a casket is needed for shipping. In many cases the remains travel in a purpose-built air-transport container, and a casket can be placed inside, or provided at the destination. If you have already chosen a casket, tell us before anything is purchased or delivered, because size, weight and materials can affect the airline’s acceptance. The funeral home can explain your options and give you a General Price List so you can compare costs.
Who provides the container
The funeral home that prepares the deceased usually arranges the container, in coordination with us and with the airline’s requirements. Our job is to confirm with the carrier what it will accept and pass that along to the funeral home before the container is prepared.
Destination considerations
Some countries have their own rules about the container, for instance metal liners or sealing requirements. Because these vary, we confirm them as part of the destination review, as described in Consular Documents for International Repatriation.
Cremated remains
Cremated remains follow different rules. See Cremation and Shipping: What Families Should Know.
Container basics compared
| Aspect | What is commonly expected | Who confirms it |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Strong enough to be handled as cargo. | Airline and funeral home. |
| Sealing | Sealed and leak-proof; the CDC requires non-cremated remains entering the U.S. to be fully contained in a leak-proof container. | Funeral home. |
| Inner and outer container | Some carriers, such as Alaska Air Cargo, require a sealed leak-proof inner container inside an outer shipping container. | Airline policy. |
| Size and weight | Must fit the aircraft and handling equipment. | Coordinator and airline. |
| Destination rules | Some countries add requirements such as sealing or liners. | Consulate and receiving funeral home. |
| Cremated remains | Different rules: sift-proof urn or container; X-ray considerations for air travel. | Crematory and the airline or TSA. |
Choosing a casket for shipping
If a casket is going to be used, tell the funeral home and the coordinator before it is purchased. Materials, dimensions and weight can affect the airline’s acceptance and the cost. Some families ship in an air-transport container and buy a casket at the destination, which can reduce weight and cost; others prefer to use the casket they selected. There is no single right answer.
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying a casket before checking the airline’s requirements.
- Assuming a container that worked on one route will be accepted on another.
- Sealing or labeling in a way the destination does not accept.
- Waiting until the last day to ask the airline about the container.
Working with the funeral home on the container
Tell the funeral home which airline and route are planned and ask them to match the container to the carrier’s requirements. Ask what the container is made of, how it is sealed and whether it comes with any documentation. If the destination has special rules, such as a metal liner or a particular seal, tell the funeral home before the container is prepared, not after.
Weight, size and cost
Heavier and larger containers generally cost more to ship, because the airline charges for weight and space. If cost is a concern, ask the funeral home whether a lighter container is acceptable for your route. Keep in mind that the container is also about dignity and protection, so choose what is right for your family within what the airline will accept.
What to tell the airline about the container
Airlines typically want to know the type of container, its approximate dimensions and weight, and whether it is sealed. If you can, give the details to your coordinator in writing, with a photograph if the funeral home can supply one. The airline can then confirm acceptance before the shipment is delivered to the cargo facility, so that there are no surprises on the day. If the airline raises a concern, there is usually time to correct it only if the concern is raised early.
Frequently asked questions
Does a casket have to be metal?
Not necessarily. Requirements depend on the airline and the destination. Check before buying.
Who provides the air-transport container?
Usually the funeral home that prepares the remains, in coordination with the airline’s requirements.
Can the airline refuse a container?
Yes. An airline can decline a shipment that does not meet its requirements.
What about cremated remains?
They generally travel in a sealed container. TSA suggests a lightweight container such as wood or plastic that does not produce an opaque X-ray image.
Can we reuse a container?
That depends on the funeral home and the airline. Ask them.
Is a metal casket required for international shipping?
Not always. Requirements depend on the airline and the destination.
Can a family bring its own casket?
Sometimes, if the airline and the funeral home accept it. Check before purchasing.
Keep reading
- How Airlines Handle Human Remains as Cargo
- Embalming and Shipping: Why It May Be Required
- Documents Typically Needed to Ship Human Remains
Sources
Need help?
Funeral Shipping coordinates domestic and international funeral shipping, including the supporting documents, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Learn more about our international repatriation services, request a quote, or call 786-565-9525.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Requirements vary by destination, carrier and circumstances and can change. Always confirm current rules with the relevant authority, and note that no timing or outcome is guaranteed.