The Frugal Undertaker

People come in all shapes and sizes. The Funeral and Cemetery industries use a "standard adult size" for caskets, outer burial containers, mausoleums and lawn crypts. Any size larger than the industry standard costs more, costs more to use or does not fit at all. I will explain size and fit issues as they pertain to Funeral Home or Cemetery merchandise.

What size is the "standard adult size"? For an adult casket to be considered "standard" it must fit inside of a 30" wide Outer Burial Container or Crypt. Concrete Grave Liners are available in 30", 34", 40" and 50" interior widths. Concrete Burial Vaults are available in 30" and 34" interior widths.

Caskets and Outer Burial Containers are also made for infants and children. The sizes range from less than one foot to 5 1/2' in length.

 Size also matters as it pertains to cremation. Crematories generally charge more for weights over 300 pounds. Please let your funeral director know if your loved one weighs over 300 pounds.

Alternative containers encase the body and can be made of materials like fiberboard or composition materials (with or without an outside covering). The first alternative container is made of unfinished fiberboard and will accommodate up to 300 pounds. The second alternative container is made of unfinished fiberboard with a sturdy wooden base and will accommodate weights of 301 pounds to 500 pounds.

Most crematories do not accept metal or fiberglass caskets.

Crematories may charge extra to cremate hardwood caskets.

Crematories may charge extra for a viewing of the deceased at their facility, a witnessing of the start of the cremation, or any type of funeral service at their facility.