You might not think that geography plays a role in funeral preparations, but this can certainly be the case when a loved one passes away interstate. This can lead to a fairly pressing concern when you need to get your loved one's remains from one part of the country to another in order for their funeral to take place.

Direct Cremation

The first step is to find out if your loved one left any wishes for their funeral. Direct cremation is when the body is transported to a crematorium as soon as possible. The cremation then takes place without any mourners in attendance. Although this might be distressing for the bereaved, it's important to honour your loved one's wishes. If this was in fact their wishes, your loved one's ashes can be transported to you after cremation. You can then hold a memorial service before scattering the ashes.

Choose a Funeral Home

When no direct cremation (or any precise instruction) was specified, you will need to arrange transportation. You will need to choose a local funeral home to receive your loved one's remains, and the funeral director should be able to make these arrangements on your behalf. The means of transportation will determine whether any additional preparation is necessary.

By Air

If your loved one's remains are to be transported by plane, it might be that the airline requires embalming before taking possession of the remains. Your funeral director will be able to clarify this. This requirement won't delay proceedings, however, it should be noted that air transportation isn't generally necessary.

By Road

There are specialist companies who can transport human remains by road, in refrigerated trucks. Embalming isn't required for this type of transportation. However, if you wish to have a viewing prior to the funeral, or if the funeral itself is to be open casket, embalming can be beneficial. This should ideally take place prior to transportation in order to best preserve your loved one's remains. Your funeral director should be able to arrange this if needed.

The loss of a loved one is always a shock, and your grief can be heightened when this loss happens far away from where your loved one's funeral is to be held. The safe and respectful transportation of your loved one's remains is quite straightforward to arrange, allowing you to make the necessary preparations for their final farewell, knowing that the guest of honour is on their way.