Traveling With Cremated Remains: What You Need to Know About Flying With Ashes

While the process of repatriating a loved one's body requires professional logistics and shipping services, many families choose to handle the transportation of cremated remains themselves. If you will be traveling by air with a portion of your loved one's cremated ashes, either to attend a memorial service or to return them to a meaningful place, there are important regulations and best practices to keep in mind.

Carrying Cremated Remains in Your Carry-On Luggage

Both the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and most major airlines allow you to bring cremated remains as a carry-on item without any documentation when the ashes are transported within a non-metallic urn or other suitable container. However, the container will need to pass through screening, so you should use one made of wood, plastic or ceramic material.

You may be asked to move the container holding the ashes closer to the X-ray belt or door for further inspection. TSA agents may also opt to screen the ashes using other methods to verify there is nothing prohibited inside the container.

It's recommended to arrive early to allow extra time for this additional screening if traveling with ashes in your carry-on. Be prepared to explain that you are carrying cremated remains.

Checked Luggage Option

As an alternative, you are permitted to check a non-metallic cremation container as your airline's baggage allowance policies allow. However, do keep in mind that checked bags often get jostled around during the handling process.

When checking cremated remains as luggage, the TSA recommends you have supporting documentation from the funeral home, such as a copy of the Cremation Certificate, receipt or other paperwork that clearly identifies the remains. This isn't always required, but can be requested by TSA agents to verify the contents.

Shipping Cremated Remains Via Cargo

If you are not able to transport the ashes as carry-on or checked luggage yourself, you can arrange for them to be shipped separately as air cargo. All major airlines allow cremated remains to be shipped via air freight, typically treated as a prioritized shipment.

Documentation Required

When shipping cremains, you will need to provide a copy of the official cremation certificate or other documentation from the funeral home that clearly identifies the deceased individual and that the container holds their cremated remains. Additional documentation like a Shippers Letter of Instruction and chain of custody forms may also be required.

Packaging Guidelines

Cremated remains must be shipped using an inner container made of plastic, wood or ceramic material. This should be packaged within a sturdy outer box with sealed lid and clearly marked that it contains cremated remains.

Labeling with appropriate hazardous materials labeling such as "Cremated Remains" is required, along with your name, address and contact information. Using an overnight or priority shipping service is recommended.

Check with your airline or shipping provider for their specific policies and procedures as requirements can vary. Advance notice and coordination with the air cargo teams is advisable.

Costs for Shipping Cremains

Shipping cremated remains within North America and adhering to required regulations typically costs $75-$200 for shipping via a major carrier like FedEx or UPS. Factors like shipping distance, weight, declared value and expedited services impact pricing.

Honoring Life's Journey

Whether the need is to repatriate your loved one's remains by flight to their final resting place or to transport a portion of their cremated ashes to a memorial service, Eirene is here to support you. We understand the emotional significance of honoring life's journey and fulfilling your loved one's wishes.

Our caring team treats every shipment, whether a full body repatriation or just a few ounces of cremated ashes, with the utmost dignity, professionalism and care. We aim to lift the logistical burden from your shoulders during an already difficult time.

Reach out to us to discuss your needs and receive comprehensive guidance that provides peace of mind.