What is Direct Cremation? A Comprehensive Guide to the Process

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Finding the right way to lay a beloved family member to rest is a highly personal, and emotional, experience that must take several factors into account. With funerals and memorial services, there are often competing concerns regarding timing, the deceased’s wishes, and the needs of the grieving family. In such a difficult time, it’s a good idea to seek ways to simplify the process and give yourself flexibility in dealing with all of the necessary details. In many situations, one way to do this is through direct cremation.

Direct cremation has become popular in recent years. The trade association for funeral directors estimates that 41% of families use this option when a family member passes. But what is direct cremation, how does it work, and what are the benefits? This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of direct cremation.

What Direct Cremation Means

Because of its popularity, many crematoriums in your area will offer direct cremation near you. This option refers to when a person’s remains are taken to the crematorium directly after their passing, cremated without a ceremony, and returned before any memorial service. The cremation often takes place during “off-peak” hours, typically early morning or late afternoon.

The Direct Cremation Process

Direct cremation is a six-step process:

The remains are collected and transported to a crematorium within days of their passing.
The crematorium stores the remains in a temperature-controlled environment until cremation.
The funeral director or crematorium operator will review all necessary documents such as a death certificate and cremation authorization, and acquire all necessary permits and consent from local authorities.
All personal items such as jewelry and medical devices will be removed and preserved for the family.
The cremation takes place as scheduled.
The family receives the ashes in a plastic or cardboard urn.

In total, this process can take between a few days and a few weeks, depending on local laws and legal requirements, and also depends on which “direct cremation near me” company that you choose.

Benefits of Choosing Direct Cremation Near You

It’s More Affordable

The most obvious benefit of direct cremation is its cost. Direct cremation costs about $2,300 in the United States while traditional cremation costs can reach more than $6,000. A traditional funeral involving embalming, casket, viewing, and burial averages $7,000-$12,000 depending on location and ceremony.

Direct Cremation is Simpler

With direct cremation, there’s no need to purchase a cemetery plot, casket, or headstone or plan a ceremony. In fact, in many situations, direct cremation can be arranged through a phone call or online.

More Time and Flexibility to Plan

Arranging the cremation separately from the memorial service gives the family time to be flexible in planning. The ceremony can take place according to a family’s budget, faith tradition, travel needs, and tastes. Traditional funerals must take place within a week of the passing.

Now that you know what direct cremation is, how it works, and its benefits over traditional funeral options, you will be able to make the best decision for yourself or for your loved one.