How to Choose a Cremation Service
Finding a Provider
There are several ways to find a provider, as there isn’t just one company or place that offers these services. Just about all funeral homes will offer a cremation service. If you want to have a service alongside cremation this would be the best place. There are also other providers, for example some cemeteries can offer cremation and even packages for urn burial. If you’re on a budget, you can choose one of these services and have the memorial service at your home. This is also a great option if you plan to spread the ashes somewhere.
Choosing a Memorial Service
If you plan on having a memorial service, see if you can include that alongside the cremation service. Many families want to have a memorial for their loved one and they can be expensive. However, if you choose to go with cremation you can still have a memorial service with that. Family members and friends can come to pay their respects and the urn will be on display. Sometimes one might even choose to bury the urn at a private plot if the family decides not to keep it. If you are seeking one of these options, consider doing it in one package through one provider to save money and make it easy on your family.
Choosing a Location
Depending on where the deceased is located, you may need to find a provider in an area you aren’t familiar with. If the deceased is out of state but you want to bring the remains home for a memorial service, it’s more economically efficient to choose a cremation provider at their current location and have the remains shipped home. Once home, you can choose how you would like to celebrate your loved one's life by choosing where to spread their ashes, deciding on a memorial service, or even choosing to bury the urn. If the deceased is local, choosing a local provider that offers all of the benefits you seek is the best choice.
Check for Additional Benefits
Some funeral homes and cremation services will offer benefits that go alongside the cremation. One benefit could be free transportation and handling of the body. Some cremation companies, funeral homes and other similar services can offer grief support for family members. If you choose a venue to hold the memorial service, benefits that may be included could be picture printing, brochure printing and mailing, as well as food and drink services. If you are looking to have a memorial alongside the cremation these benefits can save you additional money. When shopping around for providers be sure to check if benefits like this are included or charged extra.
Compare Provider Prices
Whatever service you choose for cremation, be sure to shop around for prices and packages. Providers will offer very different services and prices, and there are many more cremation services out there than you think. If you go with the first one you contacted you could be missing out on a more affordable or a better service. Especially if you are on a budget comparing would be the best option. And for some families, price is the most important factor. Shopping around can help put you at ease and avoid additional stress that high cost might add.