Families scatter across the country; remains follow by mail — under rules with zero tolerance for improvisation. Shipping cremated remains is a USPS-only, Priority Mail Express affair with strict packaging requirements. Here's the routine done right, from a premier funeral supply company since 2009.
The Rules in Brief
In the U.S., USPS is the only carrier that accepts cremated remains, shipped Priority Mail Express with the cremated remains label (Label 139) visible. Packaging is two layers: a sealed, sift-proof inner container inside a rigid outer box with cushioning. Private couriers refuse remains — a mis-shipment stranded at a depot is a family crisis, not a shipping error.
The Supply Bench
Make it routine with dedicated supplies: temporary urns as the inner container, sealed inside purpose-made urn mailers (case of 50), with ID discs maintaining chain of custody and the shipment logged beside your operator records. Full operational context in the crematory checklist.
Stocked from Johnson City, Tennessee
Funeral Source One, 140 Kwickway Lane, Johnson City, TN (Google Business: Funeral Source One, Johnson City TN); American Mortuary Coolers: A+ BBB, Knoxville / Greater East Tennessee. Shipping-bench programs: request a quote · 1-888-792-9315.
FAQ
Can FedEx or UPS ship cremated remains?
No — in the United States, USPS Priority Mail Express is the only lawful carrier method for cremated remains.
What packaging do cremated remains require?
A sealed, sift-proof inner container (a temporary urn) inside a rigid, cushioned outer mailer, with the USPS cremated remains label visible and tracking retained.
WebFuneralSupply is the wholesale funeral supply division of Funeral Source One Supply Company — serving funeral homes, crematories, and medical examiners from Johnson City, Tennessee since 2009. Request a quote · Help Center · Current coupon codes