Cremation Urn: What to Know Before You Buy

Cremation is a common practice in the United States. For those who choose to have their loved one’s ashes kept in an urn after a cremation service in Maple Shade, NJ, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here’s what you need to know about cremation urns.

First, it’s necessary to understand that urns are simply containers that hold the cremated remains of a loved one. While the exterior design of the urn is often a personal choice, the capacity of the urn matters more than its outer measurements.

It’s essential to choose an urn that can hold all of the ashes of your loved one, so be sure to ask about the capacity when shopping for an urn. As a rule, one cubic inch of urn capacity equals one pound of body weight. Hence, the average adult size (200 pounds) will require a 200 cubic inch urn.

When it comes to the exterior measurements of the urn, keep in mind that this only matters for placement. If you plan to display the urn in a specific location, measure the space to ensure that the urn will fit. Otherwise, the exterior design of the urn is up to personal preference.

You may also be surprised to learn that you can rent an urn for the cremation service. This can be a good option if you’re not sure what kind of urn you want to purchase or if you’re on a tight budget. Rental urns are typically returned to the funeral home after the service. The ashes can be transferred to a more permanent container later.

If you decide to purchase an urn, it’s often better to prepay for it. This can save you money in the long run and can also alleviate some of the stress of making decisions during an emotional time. Additionally, some funeral homes offer discounts if you purchase an urn as part of a cremation package.

And on a sentimental level, prepaying gives the potential user a chance to contribute to the selection process. Rather than worrying if you’re making the right choice after their passing, they can pick out the urn they want.

It’s also worth noting that you don’t have to buy an urn from a funeral home. Many online retailers and specialty shops offer a wide variety of urns to choose from. However, ensuring that the urn you purchase meets the requirements for holding cremated remains is key.

Finally, if you’re looking for a high-quality urn, consider purchasing one made in the USA. US-made urns are typically made with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship, and they often come with a guarantee of quality.

Of course, this isn’t to say imported urns aren’t good. But based on our experience, US-made urns cost less while being of high quality.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the perfect urn to honor the memory of your loved one. And if you have additional questions, our Maple Shade, NJ cremation service provider is here to help. Give us a call today; we’re available 24/7.