How to Ship Cremated Remains Internationally: A Practical Guide

When someone dies in the United States but their home was in another country, their family often wants them returned. Into Our Kare has direct experience coordinating international shipping of both cremated and non-cremated remains, with established cargo shipper accounts with major airlines.

Here is a practical breakdown of what the process involves and what families need to know.

Cremated Remains vs. Non-Cremated Remains

The process differs significantly depending on whether the remains have been cremated. Cremated remains are considerably easier to ship internationally. They are lighter, less restricted, and more straightforward to clear through customs. Non-cremated remains require a much more complex documentation process and coordination with receiving countries, and not every funeral home has the experience or carrier relationships to handle it.

Into Our Kare handles both, but if international shipping is anticipated, cremation is often the more practical choice.

What Is Required for International Shipping of Cremated Remains

Requirements vary by destination country, but the general list includes:

• A certified death certificate (multiple copies are typically required)
• A cremation certificate issued by the crematory
• A certificate of non-contagion signed by a physician or the medical examiner
• Customs declaration documentation for the receiving country
• Coordination with a funeral home or legal representative in the receiving country

Some countries have additional requirements. Mexico, Ecuador, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic, which are among the countries we regularly coordinate with, each have specific documentation requirements that we are familiar with.

Airline Cargo vs. Carrying in Luggage

Cremated remains can be carried on a commercial flight by a family member, but there are strict requirements around the container: it must be able to pass through an X-ray scanner, which means metal urns are often problematic. Plastic, wood, or cardboard containers work better for carry-on transport.

For shipping through airline cargo, a funeral home with established cargo shipper accounts can arrange direct shipment. Into Our Kare has carrier accounts with major airlines and coordinates cargo shipments regularly for families in the Gaston County and surrounding area.

Timeline and Cost

International shipping of cremated remains typically takes one to two weeks to coordinate properly when documentation is in order. Rushing the process increases the risk of customs delays on the receiving end. Cost varies based on destination, carrier, and documentation requirements. We provide families with a clear estimate before any commitment is made.

Getting Started

If you are planning for international shipment of remains, call Into Our Kare at 704-473-3317 as early as possible in the process. The more lead time we have, the smoother the coordination. We serve families throughout Gaston County and surrounding communities and have the established carrier relationships to manage this process from start to finish.

Sources referenced in this article:

Source: TSA: Transporting Human Remains — https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/crematory-remains

Source: IATA: Regulations for Shipping Human Remains — https://www.iata.org/en/publications/dgr/