Cremation is a common choice, particularly when a family wants to carry a loved one home or divide remains among relatives. It changes the shipping rules, though, and the options differ depending on whether cremation happens before or after transport.
Option 1: ship first, cremate at the destination
The remains travel in a suitable container as described in Airline-Acceptable Containers, and cremation takes place at the destination under local law. This approach means the shipment follows the rules for non-cremated remains.
Option 2: cremate first, ship the cremated remains
Cremated remains are lighter, easier to handle and subject to simpler rules in many places. Several practical points apply:
- Air travel with a passenger. The Transportation Security Administration lists cremated remains as allowed in carry-on and checked bags, and recommends a container that does not produce an opaque image on the X-ray, such as one made of wood or plastic. TSA officers will not open a container. Some airlines do not allow cremated remains in checked bags, so confirm with the airline.
- Mail. The U.S. Postal Service states that cremated remains must be shipped using Priority Mail Express (or Priority Mail Express International) and, under its current rules, in its Cremated Remains box. For international mail, the destination country must allow cremated remains. Check USPS for the current requirements.
- Documents. Airlines and destination countries commonly ask for a death certificate and a certificate of cremation. Requirements vary, so ask us about the specific destination.
- Importing into the U.S. The CDC does not require a permit for cremated remains, among other categories.
Choosing between the options
The choice depends on the family’s wishes, religious practice, the destination’s rules and cost. Some countries have restrictions or customs about cremation, so check before deciding. A receiving funeral home can tell you what is permitted locally.
A note about costs and timing
Cremation adds its own steps, such as authorization forms and processing time, and the cost differs from shipping non-cremated remains. Ask the funeral home for its General Price List.
Talk to us first
Because the best option depends on your situation, we suggest speaking with us before the cremation is scheduled. See also What Is a Burial-Transit Permit? and Embalming and Shipping.
Cremated remains: ways to travel compared
| Method | What the sources say | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-on bag | TSA lists cremated remains as allowed in carry-on bags. | The container must not produce an opaque X-ray image; TSA officers will not open it. |
| Checked bag | TSA lists cremated remains as allowed in checked bags. | Some airlines do not allow cremated remains in checked bags. |
| U.S. Mail | USPS requires Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail Express International. | Current rules call for the USPS Cremated Remains box; confirm before sending. |
| Cargo or courier | Rules vary by carrier and destination. | Ask the carrier and the destination. |
| Entering the U.S. | The CDC does not require a permit for cremated remains. | Other documents may still be requested. |
Choosing a container
TSA suggests a container made of a lightweight material, such as wood or plastic, that does not produce an opaque image. A sealed, sift-proof container is also a sensible choice for any trip. Your funeral home or crematory can recommend options.
Documents to keep with the cremated remains
- Certificate of cremation.
- Death certificate or certified copy.
- Identification of the person carrying or sending the remains.
- Any letters or permits required by the destination.
Dividing and scattering ashes
Some families divide cremated remains among relatives or plan to scatter them. Rules on scattering vary by place and by country, and some require permission. If you plan to scatter ashes abroad, ask the local authorities or the receiving funeral home what is allowed before you travel.
Keepsakes and jewelry
Small portions of cremated remains are sometimes placed in keepsakes. USPS notes that its cremated-remains rules apply to ashes in any form, including jewelry or keepsakes, when mailed. Ask the funeral home about handling and documentation.
Planning ahead with the funeral home and crematory
If you are considering cremation, ask the funeral home and the crematory what authorizations are needed, who must sign them, how long the process takes and what documents you will receive afterward. Ask whether the certificate of cremation will be provided and when. Because destinations differ in whether they accept cremated remains and under what conditions, speak with us before scheduling the cremation if you plan to travel with the remains or send them abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Can I carry ashes on a plane?
TSA allows cremated remains in carry-on and checked bags, subject to screening rules and airline policy. Check with your airline.
Can ashes be mailed?
Within USPS rules, only by Priority Mail Express, with the current required packaging. Confirm on the USPS website.
Can I divide the ashes among relatives?
That is a decision for the family and the funeral home. Each portion then travels under the same rules.
Do I need documents to bring ashes abroad?
Often yes. A certificate of cremation and a death certificate are commonly requested.
Is cremation allowed in every country?
No. Some countries restrict or condition it. Confirm before deciding.
Do I need to declare ashes at customs?
Rules vary by country. Ask the destination’s consulate or customs authority before you travel.
Can ashes be shipped without a funeral home?
Some steps need documents that a funeral home or crematory provides. Ask us about your plan.
Keep reading
- Embalming and Shipping: Why It May Be Required
- Airline-Acceptable Containers: What Families Should Know
- What Is a Burial-Transit Permit?
- Planning Ahead: Making Repatriation Wishes Known
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.