subject: Shipping Cremated Remains...what Airline Is Best? [print this page] The shipment of human remains and cremated remains has generally been straightforword. Families and funeral directors have typically used the USPS and commercial airlines. Even though they are more cost effective, they may be less effective in other areas. They lack in convenience and compassion. Let's talk about other flight methods that are effective ways of shipping for shipping remains. While these are not tips on saving money, they are other options made available to the family of the deceased.
Let's first discuss the shipment of cremated remains. Cremation has begun a growing trend as a means of disposition, increasing the need for their shipment. There are many rules that apply to the transportation of cremated remains. A great number of funeral directors don't know all of the options afforded them when it comes to the families' need for speed or compassion.The shipment of regular packeages, such as anniversary gifts, is quite different from shipping cremated remains in the same way. For air express companies, the shipment of cremated remains is actually prohibited, with a denial of loss or damage. The USPS does not allow the shipment of human remains via regular mail, cerified mail, or express overnight mail. While using their services has it's economical upside, it is not convenient, compassionate, or fast.
We'll discuss commercial airlines as another possible means of transportation. Remains are unable to be transported in the passenger cabin or in the cargo area. Many families choose to pack the remains into a box that is easily x-rayed by the TSA, or Transportation Security Administration. Remains are not able to pass through security if they are not packed in this way. No further inspection of the package will be allowed. At this point, the family can choose to have it added to the cargo area, but it'll be tossed around like regular luggage.
It's a wise move to consider other flight shipping options. Sensitive and time critical airlines are available. AirNet Express does door-to-door pickup on the shipment of sensitive goods and remains. As stated by the TSA, companies such as AirNet Express must do physical inspections of the actual place of business of the funeral director. Since there are different restrictions on this method of flight, the cost is greater. Families will be gaining a higher class of dignity in transportation, which is significantly more sensitive to the family and the deceased. A signed certificate of death or burial removal permit is required by law.
As you read, we are not offering advice in regards to saving money on the shipment of remains. Most importantly, we are showing you the differences in speed and compassion that can be had by opting for different means of flight. Locate a company that is TSA certified for the flight shipment of your families cremated remains. It will be more dignified and sacred.
