Cardboard Burial Caskets Explained: Price & Types | Cake Blog (2023)

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure.

Putting a loved one to rest involves making many, many choices. Choosing a casket is just one of them. Anyone who has ever gone through this process knows there are many types of caskets to choose from. You need to find one that’s right for your goals, needs, and budget.

Jump ahead to these sections:

  • What’s a Cardboard Casket?
  • Is It Legal or OK to Bury a Loved One in a Cardboard Casket?
  • Why Aren’t Cardboard Caskets Used More Often?
  • Why Do People Choose Cardboard Caskets Over Other Materials?
  • Pros and Cons of Cardboard Caskets
  • How Much Does a Cardboard Casket Cost?
  • What Are the Different Types of Cardboard Caskets?
  • Where Can You Buy a Cardboard Casket?
  • Frequently Asked Questions: Cardboard Caskets

It may be surprising to you to know that cardboard is a viable material used for making caskets. In that vein, it is worth keeping cardboard caskets in mind if you’re not sure which material is ideal for your purposes.

There are many reasons some people go with this option and some popular types of cardboard caskets available. Below, we explain why some folks choose cardboard caskets, and where you can purchase them.

What’s a Cardboard Casket?

A cardboard casket is exactly what it sounds like: a casket for a loved one’s body made with cardboard instead of other traditional materials.

The following section will explain why you might consider this choice.

Is It Legal or OK to Bury a Loved One in a Cardboard Casket?

The Federal Trade Commission’s “Funeral Rule” gives consumers significant freedom of choice regarding the decisions they might make when planning a funeral for a loved one or themselves. This includes the freedom to choose the type of casket they wish to use for burial or cremation.

Generally, it is legal and permissible to bury a loved one in a cardboard casket. However, some jurisdictions have very specific laws about burials that may differ from most laws throughout the nation. Thus, you should still research to determine if a cardboard casket is legal in your area, although odds are good it will be.

You should also research the cemeteries or crematoriums you plan on working with. Although using a cardboard casket may technically be legal, individual cemeteries and crematoriums often have the power to establish their own rules regarding the types of caskets they might accept.

However, the question of whether it is “ok” to use a cardboard casket may have slightly different implications. In general, you might wonder if using a cardboard casket is acceptable from a cultural or even environmental perspective.

From a cultural perspective, you need to decide whether you wish to bury someone or cremate them in a cardboard casket. Some people feel more comfortable sticking to traditional materials for personal reasons. You might not feel comfortable burying or cremating a loved one in a somewhat unconventional casket style. That’s entirely understandable.

Further down, this guide will expand upon the pros and cons of cardboard caskets. However, if protecting the environment is among your chief priorities, you should be aware that cardboard caskets represent a “green” alternative to traditional options. This is because the process of manufacturing them is less resource-intensive.

Why Aren’t Cardboard Caskets Used More Often?

There are a number of reasons why cardboard caskets are less popular than caskets of other materials.

Tradition

Tradition is one primary reason people don't use cardboard caskets very often. For many years, most people in the US have assumed that a casket is a wood or metal item. Many people don't even consider cardboard caskets to be an option, perhaps because they are unaware of their existence. Even those who know they can choose a cardboard casket might nevertheless decide not to because they feel more comfortable adhering to tradition.

Availability

Many people buy their caskets and other such funeral products directly from funeral homes. Because cardboard caskets are fairly new and untraditional, funeral homes usually don't offer them.

Durability concerns

Some have certain genuine concerns about the use of a cardboard casket. When choosing a casket for a loved one's burial or cremation, you'll naturally want to ensure it's sturdy. It needs to support their weight and remain in good condition throughout the service. No one wants to disrespect the memory of a loved one by choosing a casket that is low-quality.

Later on, this overview will explain how cardboard caskets are often much more durable than people may assume. That said, because cardboard caskets have historically not been widely used, there are many misconceptions regarding their durability.

(Video) How to Choose a Casket or Coffin | eFuneral

Along with concerns about a cardboard casket's sturdiness, some might worry that this material won't hold up to rain. While that's a valid concern, it's not a necessary one. Technological innovations have allowed the manufacture of cardboard caskets that can remain in ideal condition even if they were completely submerged in water for extended periods. But, because many don't realize this, they may not decide to use cardboard caskets.

Why Do People Choose Cardboard Caskets Over Other Materials?

There’s no single universal reason why people choose cardboard caskets over others. The following are just some of the more common reasons:

Environmental benefits

Cardboard caskets are generally more eco-friendly than wood or metal caskets. This is because manufacturers often primarily use recycled materials when making cardboard caskets.

Additionally, most cardboard caskets are entirely biodegradable. If conserving resources was an important value of the deceased, you may want to consider this option. A cardboard casket is also worth keeping in mind if you’re planning a natural burial.

Cost

A wide range of factors may contribute to how much you can expect to spend on a casket, regardless of its material.

That said, cardboard caskets are typically more cost-effective than others.

Durability

You might understandably worry that cardboard isn’t a durable enough material for a casket.

Fortunately, despite being very lightweight, cardboard is much more durable than many assume. As long as you purchase your casket from a reputable supplier, it will serve its purpose exactly as intended.

Cremations

Cremations are becoming increasingly popular. However, in many instances, you still need to keep the deceased’s body in some type of casket before the cremation is finished. Cardboard is ideal for this purpose.

Pros and Cons of Cardboard Caskets

It’s always critical to remember that there is no “right” or “wrong” casket to bury or cremate a loved one. The ideal choice for one family may not be right for another.

However, suppose you’re leaning towards choosing a cardboard casket for yourself or a family member. In that case, you might want to learn more about the pros and cons of this option. The following breakdown should help you better understand whether a cardboard casket is a right choice based on your goals and preferences.

Pros

The pros of a cardboard casket include the following:

Savings

Again, cardboard caskets usually cost less than traditional wooden or metal caskets. Using one is an option worth considering if you're on a budget.

Protecting the environment

Suppose you're choosing a casket for someone who was very eco-conscious. In that case, you might wish to honor their memory by selecting one that uses up fewer resources than traditional types of caskets.

Customizing your casket

Some companies and manufacturers strictly offer cardboard caskets of their own design. However, cardboard is a more versatile material than others. Accordingly, it's possible to customize a cardboard casket in a manner that isn't possible when buying a traditional wooden or metal casket. Although you can theoretically customize a traditional casket, doing so is typically more costly than it would be if you were to purchase a casket made of cardboard.

Cons

Because no one type of casket is "perfect," it is worth noting that there are some drawbacks to choosing a cardboard casket. They include:

(Video) Top 17 of All Time Cartoon Box catch Up

Breaking with tradition

Often, those deciding which funeral products to purchase for a loved one's service consider their feelings and those of other family members and friends. You might be comfortable breaking with tradition and purchasing a cardboard casket. However, you may have genuine concerns about whether others will feel the same about your choice.

Availability

Cardboard caskets are less widely used than wooden or metal caskets. Thus, if you're in a rush, you may struggle to find a casket that suits your needs when buying directly from the funeral home.

Weight limits

Although cardboard caskets can support more weight than some people think, there is an upper limit to how much weight they can accommodate. Traditional caskets can support much more weight than cardboard caskets can.

How Much Does a Cardboard Casket Cost?

You always need to consider how much a casket costs when choosing a material.

While there’s no set price for cardboard caskets, as different types cost different sums (and factors such as delivery methods will also play a role in how much you spend), for the most part, a cardboard casket will be much less expensive than another type. Online prices for standard cardboard caskets start at just a little over $200. That includes the price of delivery.

While prices can increase from there, cardboard caskets are much easier to customize than other types. By having more control over which features you do and don’t want to add to your basic casket, you’ll have more control over the total cost.

What Are the Different Types of Cardboard Caskets?

Cardboard caskets come in many different shapes, sizes, and designs. These are merely a few popular options worth considering:

1. Traditional

Although you’re choosing a relatively uncommon material (when compared to options like wood or metal) if you’re purchasing a cardboard casket, you might still prefer the shape of a traditional coffin.

If so, you’ll find there are plenty of cardboard caskets that perfectly resemble what you’re looking for. You can even find cardboard caskets with finishes/paint jobs that make the material resemble traditional wood.

2. Personalized

Some cardboard casket manufacturers allow customers to personalize the design of their caskets so they can feature photos of the deceased, illustrations, or similar designs.

This is difficult to offer when selling other types of caskets, as the process of manufacturing and assembling them takes too long to allow for much personalization. This is another reason some people choose cardboard caskets.

3. DIY cardboard caskets

When searching for cardboard caskets, you’ll also find plenty of manufacturers who offer caskets you can assemble yourself at home.

Instead of trusting an outside party to customize your casket precisely the way you want them to, with one you can assemble yourself, you’ll be able to exercise more control over the finished product.

(Just make sure you read the directions carefully!)

4. Unique designs

You might want a cardboard casket that doesn’t resemble a traditional coffin, but you might also feel less-than-confident in your ability to create a design that will do your loved one justice.

Don’t worry if you feel this way. Unlike other materials, it’s easy to add dynamic visual features to cardboard. As a result, there are many types of cardboard caskets featuring a wide range of designs. Options include floral designs, paintings of nature or the ocean, abstract patterns, and many, many more.

(Video) How Long Does A Pencil Last?

5. Funny cardboard caskets

Saying goodbye to a loved one doesn’t always need to be an entirely somber affair. Sometimes, when a person had a striking sense of humor in life, they’d want those putting them to rest to enjoy a few light-hearted laughs while doing so.

Not everyone is comfortable with this approach, but there’s certainly nothing wrong with adding some humor to the proceedings if your intentions are good (and you know you won’t offend any of the deceased’s loved ones or close friends).

This is yet another reason cardboard caskets are so unique. Once more, the ease of manufacturing them allows designers to exercise a lot more creativity than they can when working with other materials. There are cardboard caskets that resemble boxes of chocolate, cars, and even decks of playing cards (just to name a few).

6. Boxes

Everyone’s approach to saying goodbye to a loved one is unique. Factors ranging from personal taste to cultural values will influence how you choose to put someone to rest.

For instance, in some cultures, mourning shouldn’t involve excessive displays of wealth or pride. Someone from such a culture may prefer a cardboard casket that resembles nothing more than a typical shipping container. This is also a common option that’s very easy to find.

7. Pet caskets

It’s worth noting that cardboard caskets aren’t exclusively for humans!

If you’re looking for a casket for a beloved pet, there are many cardboard caskets that are the perfect size and shape for a dog, cat, or any other pet.

8. Cardboard urns

While the primary focus of this guide is traditional cardboard caskets, you should also know that many cardboard urns offer the same benefits as caskets. The only difference is that they’re smaller, as they’ll hold a loved one’s ashes, not their body.

This is an eco-friendly option if you’re not sure what to do with someone’s ashes after cremating them. You could place them in a biodegradable cardboard urn and bury it in a suitable location. However, if you do, check the local laws first, as there are some restrictions on where you can and can’t bury cremains.

Where Can You Buy a Cardboard Casket?

The type of cardboard casket you purchase will determine where you can buy it from. Options to keep in mind include:

Online specialty retailers

Many people buy cardboard caskets online. Some online retailers sell basic caskets, some sell a variety of styles, and some allow you to customize your order.

If you go this route, just make sure you research your options thoroughly to avoid buying a casket from a retailer that’ll deliver an inferior product. It’s tempting to buy from the site with the best discounts, but sometimes, low prices mean low quality.

General retailers

Not all retailers selling cardboard caskets specialize in this type of product.

Some general retailers, such as Walmart, Costco, Target, and Alibaba also sell cardboard caskets. You may want to consider them if you’d like to do business with an established company you know you can trust.

Funeral homes

Many funeral homes sell caskets directly, and some of them sell cardboard caskets.

If you believe your funeral home offers quality products, buying a casket from them will save you the time you might otherwise spend looking for a separate retailer.

(Video) Greening Cremation Part 2

Alternatives to Cardboard Caskets and Urns

If you want a casket or urn that's lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and better for the environment than traditional options, here are some alternatives to consider:

  • Softwood caskets.Many caskets are made out of hardwoods, like mahogany, cherry, and poplar. But a lighter and more affordable option for caskets is softwood. One example is a pine casket, which can be both beautiful and affordable, as well as more eco-friendly.
  • Woven wicker caskets.Another affordable and lightweight option is a woven wicker or rattan casket. These are made of natural fibers that are strong and appealing while weighing less and more easily decomposing in the earth.
  • Burial shroud.Even more simplistic than a cardboard casket is a burial shroud. Burial shrouds are made of natural fibers, and they're used to wrap the body as an alternative to any casket. This allows the body to come into contact with the earth underground, encouraging more natural decomposition.
  • Paper urns.A paper urn is similar to a cardboard urn, but it's even lighter and more eco-friendly. They're made to decompose extra quickly underground or in water, and they come in a variety of beautiful styles and designs.
  • Bio urn.If you want to support the earth with your or a loved one's urn, you can choose a bio urn. These are made to feed the soil, and you can even place seeds or bulbs inside them to plant a flower, tree, or any type of plant you wish.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cardboard Caskets

Do you still have questions about cardboard caskets? Keep reading to learn more!

How do you carry a cardboard casket?

This is a very practical and understandable question you may have if you are thinking about using a cardboard casket for the burial or cremation of a loved one. Since cardboard is not as sturdy a material as more traditional casket material options, you might have concerns regarding how to safely carry a cardboard casket without damaging it.

Luckily, carrying a cardboard casket is as simple as carrying any other type of casket, provided you buy the right model.

It’s important to check the specifications of a cardboard casket before purchasing one. You need to confirm that the chosen casket can support the deceased’s weight. Additionally, some cardboard caskets have handles.

Naturally, manufacturers of cardboard caskets include handles specifically so that pallbearers may carry a casket. Suppose the specifications of a model you’re considering purchasing indicate it can support your loved one’s weight and has handles. In that case, you can carry it the same way you would carry a casket of another material.

How much do cardboard caskets weigh?

The weight of a cardboard casket can vary from one model to another. Some cardboard caskets weigh as little as 20 pounds. Others can weigh as much as 80 pounds.

Are cardboard caskets strong?

After reading the answer to the above question, you might worry that a cardboard casket won’t be strong enough to serve your needs. The weight of a cardboard casket may seem very light compared to that of a traditional wood or metal casket.

Don’t worry. Buy a cardboard casket from a reputable manufacturer. You can find models that may support up to 280 pounds of weight. Again, be sure to research the manufacturer from whom you plan to buy a casket, and check the specifications before making a purchase. Even if you buy from a trusted manufacturer, your casket might not be ideal if you choose the wrong model.

How long does it take for a body to decompose in a cardboard casket?

There is no “official” answer to this question. After 50 years, all that's typically left of a body is skin and tendons in a mummified state. The full decomposition process takes about a century.

Decomposition will likely occur more quickly in a cardboard casket. A cardboard casket itself breaks down more easily than a traditional casket, allowing for faster decomposition.

Can a loved one be cremated in a cardboard casket?

Yes. In fact, some manufacturers offer models of cardboard caskets specifically for cremations.

Often, these models are ideal for direct cremations, but you might also purchase one if you want a low-cost container for a loved one’s body during the cremation process.

Just confirm that the crematory you’re working with permits the use of cardboard caskets. If it does, make sure your chosen casket meets any specifications or criteria the crematory may have. Not all cardboard caskets are ideal for cremation purposes.

Cardboard Caskets: An Increasingly Common Choice

Someone choosing a casket for a loved one’s body will typically have many questions, such as “How much does a casket weigh?” or “Which material is best for a casket?”

Remember, there’s no one answer to these questions. This is a personal choice. Hopefully, this guide has helped you better understand whether a cardboard casket is a choice you’d consider.

(Video) Saying Goodbye Till We Meet Again! Rest In Peace, Grandma!

If you're looking for more on caskets, read our guide on how to find an affordable casket and wicker caskets.

Sources:
  1. “6 Reasons We Are Using Cardboard for Our Coffins.” Mourning Dove Studio, Mourning Dove Studio LLC, 7 February 2017, Mourningdovestudio.com

FAQs

What is the cost for a cardboard casket? ›

Almost every funeral home and crematorium will offer a simple cardboard casket for less than $100 USD.

What are the different types of burial caskets? ›

There are many different styles of caskets, but it comes down to three basic choices, wood casket, metal casket or cremation casket. The first two are for burial purposes and the third, as the name suggests is used when cremating the deceased.

Can a person be buried in a cardboard box? ›

You can use a simple wood casket, cardboard box, or shroud for burial. There are also biodegradable urns for ashes that will be buried. By law, you are allowed to use whatever type of container you like -- even a homemade one.

Are cardboard coffins cheaper than wood? ›

Cardboard coffins are cheaper than solid wood coffins, however they do cost more than many of the wood effect coffins. This is based on the actual cost price not the funeral directors prices which often includes a large premium.

Does Medicare cover casket? ›

Medicare will not cover funeral or burial expenses. Your beneficiaries could use money from a Medicare Medical Savings Account or Social Security survivors benefits in some circumstances to help pay for a funeral. Making sure you have savings set aside for final expenses is a key part of retirement planning.

How long does buried cardboard last? ›

Cardboard takes approximately 2 months to decompose. However, instead of sending your boxes to the landfill consider adding them to your recycling or your compost pile. Cardboard breaks down fairly quickly when exposed to the elements, but stacks of cardboard can take years to decompose.

What type of casket is best? ›

Metal Caskets

Bronze and copper are commonly considered to be the highest quality materials available. That's because these metals are resistant to rust and corrosion. For that reason, they have been used for centuries, going all the way back to ancient times.

What does the cheapest casket look like? ›

Cardboard. Caskets made of cardboard sit in the low price range for caskets. Cardboard is biodegradable and sturdy, and caskets made of cardboard are used a lot for cremation or green funerals. They're easy to personalize, and you can find basic models for as low as $300.

How long does it take for a cardboard box to decompose underground? ›

It breaks down quickly when exposed, but tightly packed cardboard can endure for years. However, when a piece of cardboard is used as mulch or specifically shredded and soaked to decompose, biodegradation occurs quickly, with the majority of cardboard wholly broken down within three months.

Do caskets have WIFI? ›

The MyRepublic Coffin comes fully kitted with a PS4, HDTV, surround sound system and a MyRepublic high-speed router which enables a fast connection. Vaughan Baker, managing director for MyRepublic, says the coffin illustrates the lengths MyRepublic will go to ensuring New Zealanders receive internet without limits.

What is the cheapest way to be buried? ›

Direct cremation is an equally efficient and less expensive way to take care of your loved one's remains after a sudden passing. Your loved one is picked up from their place of passing, the necessary documents are processed, and the remains are taken to the crematorium.

Are cardboard coffins cheaper? ›

Value for Money. Cardboard is a cheaper material than those which make the traditional coffin. Its a common material that is widely produced and recycled.

Is there a weight limit for cardboard coffin? ›

We even provide an on-line design service where you can create your own coffin in the comfort and privacy of your own home. There is a common misconception that cardboard coffins won't be able to take much weight. However, our coffins can take up to a recommended maximum load of 25 stone (163kg).

Are cardboard coffins waterproof? ›

Note that most liners are not waterproof which is important to consider if you intend on embalming the deceased. It's also good understand if the linear is bio-degradable as this maybe an important factor for woodland or eco funerals. Where was it the coffin made?

What if you can't afford a casket? ›

Ask for help from charitable or government organizations

Check with your county coroner's office to find out if you qualify. You can also search for local or national nonprofit or religious organizations that offer help with paying for funeral expenses. Some national organizations include: Children's Burial Assistance.

Does Social Security cover any funeral expenses? ›

Does Medicare or Social Security Pay for Funeral Expenses? The short answer to this question is no; they don't. Medicare covers medical care, which ends when you die. Medicare doesn't have a death benefit either, but Social Security does offer survivor benefits.

What happens to a body if you can't afford a funeral? ›

You don't necessarily need to worry about what happens to your body if you can't afford a funeral. Signing a form at the county coroner can authorize the release of your body to the state or county for burial or cremation. It may be possible to pay a fee to recover your ashes if your family would like them.

How many layers of cardboard do you need for no dig? ›

If you are starting on weedy ground, a mulch of two layers of good strong cardboard, weighed down with stones or timber, kills off the weeds underneath usually over 9-12 months. You may need to replace the cardboard once or twice (just add more to the surface), depending on your weather conditions.

Will cardboard break down over winter? ›

After a few months, you'll start to see the cardboard breaking down. Underneath, you'll find fresh garden soil, ready for plants. The best time to do this is in fall, so the cardboard can break down over the winter and you'll be ready to go in spring.

How long does it take for cardboard to get moldy? ›

The PROBLeM wiTh MOLd

Mildew (mold in early stage) and molds grow on wood products, ceiling tiles, cardboard, wallpaper, carpets, drywall, fabric, plants, foods, insulation, decaying leaves and other organic materials. Mold growths, or colonies, can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours.

What type of casket lasts the longest? ›

Bronze, a semi-precious material alloy, is the strongest and longest-lasting of any casket construction material. Bronze is resistant to corrosive elements, and makes an elegant, exquisite remembrance.

What is the best color casket? ›

If you're torn between different variations of the funeral casket colors, the pink caskets, white caskets, and blue casket, are the most popular options in the US our days.

Is it better to have open or closed casket? ›

Others have said that an open casket funeral gives them more closure. However, an open casket funeral is not the best option for everyone. It is important that you consider your own personal circumstances as well as the wishes of your loved one as you decide between an open casket funeral and a closed casket funeral.

What's the difference between a casket and coffin? ›

a coffin and a casket? The difference is basically one of design. Coffins are tapered at the head and foot and are wide at the shoulders. Caskets are rectangular in shape and are usually constructed of better quality timbers and feature higher standards of workmanship.

How much should you spend on a casket? ›

Caskets vary widely in style, material, design, and price. An average casket costs between $2,000-$5,000 and is typically either metal or a cheaper wood, but some caskets can sell for as much as $10,000 or more. It's important to remember you're not obligated to buy any funeral items directly from the funeral home.

How much is the cheapest casket you can buy? ›

They can be made of a very inexpensive material, such as cardboard or pressed wood, and cost as little as $200. More ornate versions used to display the body for a funeral service are more expensive with a price range between $625 and $2,425.

How long does a body stay fresh in a casket? ›

For those who are embalmed and buried in a coffin, five to 10 years is a more typical decomposition timeline, he said. At that point, the tissue is gone and only bones remain.

How much is a quality casket? ›

The average metal casket costs about $2,500, while premium caskets made of mahogany, fiberglass, wood and plastic can all cost as much as $10,000. Some buyers purchase a casket independently, to avoid third-party markups.

How long does a body stay intact in a casket? ›

But by 50 years, the tissues will have liquefied and disappeared, leaving behind mummified skin and tendons. Eventually these too will disintegrate, and after 80 years in that coffin, your bones will crack as the soft collagen inside them deteriorates, leaving nothing but the brittle mineral frame behind.

How many inches of soil is on top of cardboard? ›

If you're just adding mulch, spread what you have in an even layer at least 2 inches thick on top of the cardboard and call it done. If you're also using manure, spread it in two-inch layers alternated with a one-inch layer of organic material between each one, finishing with a final layer of mulch on top.

Which item would take the longest to break down in a landfill? ›

The first object to note on this list of trash that spends the most time decomposing in landfills is glass bottles, which can take up to one million years to break down completely.

Can cardboard boxes rot? ›

Cardboard is widely recycled and can decompose over a short 2 months.

Do caskets smell? ›

As mentioned, most of the caskets are not airtight, and advanced decomposition will lead to unpleasant smells even in a closed service. However, it is especially important for funerals with open caskets, as all measures must be taken to ensure that loved ones can say their farewells before decomposition begins.

Do caskets lock when closed? ›

Once the lid is closed, a sealing key (found on the foot of the coffin) will be turned, locking the lid safely in place. Therefore, the rubber gasket will create an air-tight seal. The mechanism resembles any other rubber gasket around a lid, and the seal reduces the risk of air and moisture to get through the casket.

Why do caskets have pillows? ›

A rather large overstuffed pillow is included in the interior package of a finished casket. This pillow helps to hold the decedent in an inclined position. This position helps present a naturally comforting presentation to the survivors.

What is the simplest funeral you can have? ›

An Unattended Funeral is different to a traditional ceremonial funeral. There is no service, there is no hearse or limousines and mourners do not attend the crematorium.

Which is cheaper coffin or casket? ›

Because coffins don't require nearly as much material, they are often less expensive than caskets. The tapering of a coffin also affects its price point.

How do I arrange a funeral with no money? ›

If someone dies with no money and no family who can pay for the funeral, the local council or hospital can arrange a Public Health Funeral (also known as a pauper's funeral). This usually takes the form of a short, simple cremation service.

What is the cheapest casket made? ›

They can be made of a very inexpensive material, such as cardboard or pressed wood, and cost as little as $200. More ornate versions used to display the body for a funeral service are more expensive with a price range between $625 and $2,425.

What is the cheapest type of casket? ›

The most affordable caskets are the 18-gauge and 20-gauge steel caskets. Their prices range from $900 to $3,500, with style and type of the steel as the main factors affecting the cost of the casket. For wood caskets, the general price ranges from $900 to $4000.

How much do biodegradable caskets cost? ›

Where hardwood and metal caskets cost into the thousands, a simple, biodegradable casket typically costs around $1500. And green caskets made of cardboard or soft wood can cost as little as $50.

What is the best type of casket to buy? ›

Bronze and copper are the most durable metals and are non-rusting. They will, over time, oxidize, but in general, they are considered to be the most long-lasting. Bronze and copper are measured by weight per square foot. Therefore, a 48-ounce copper casket is 50% heavier than a 32-ounce model.

What is difference between coffin and casket? ›

The difference is basically one of design. Coffins are tapered at the head and foot and are wide at the shoulders. Caskets are rectangular in shape and are usually constructed of better quality timbers and feature higher standards of workmanship.

How long does it take to get a casket from Costco? ›

Costco ships and delivers all coffin orders within three business days, depending on availability. However, the website also states that weather-related conditions and limited circumstances can delay delivery.

Which is better 18 or 20-gauge casket? ›

The smaller the number the thicker the steel. 18 Gauge would be a stronger metal than a 20 Gauge. A 20 Gauge casket would fulfill the same need as an 18 Gauge but for less money. Most oversize caskets are 20 gauge because it is lighter.

Which is more expensive between a coffin and a casket? ›

Caskets are generally more expensive than coffins because they are usually lined with finer material and include extra features like cushions and interior trimmings. The double lid tops allow for a viewing, if that's something you would like to include in the funeral ceremony.

Videos

1. Make Money With Sublimation - Memorial Products
(SawgrassInk)
2. Reclaiming Your Funeral Rights: Green Burial
(UNCA Ramsey Library Video Production)
3. His last roller coaster ride..
(Perplexify)
4. This Man Dug a Hole in His Backyard He Was Not Ready For What He Discovered There
(Wonderbot)
5. A Hole in the Great Pyramid
(Megalithic Marvels)
6. Green Burial: The Green Way to "Go" (with ASL Interpreter)
(Deschutes Public Library)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Lilliana Bartoletti

Last Updated: 18/05/2023

Views: 6138

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (73 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Lilliana Bartoletti

Birthday: 1999-11-18

Address: 58866 Tricia Spurs, North Melvinberg, HI 91346-3774

Phone: +50616620367928

Job: Real-Estate Liaison

Hobby: Graffiti, Astronomy, Handball, Magic, Origami, Fashion, Foreign language learning

Introduction: My name is Lilliana Bartoletti, I am a adventurous, pleasant, shiny, beautiful, handsome, zealous, tasty person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.