Losing a loved one is an emotional journey, and making decisions about memorializing their life can feel overwhelming. One important choice many families face is selecting the right cremation urn. At urnsforashes.com, we understand the significance of this step and are here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.

Understanding Urn Sizes: A Practical Rule

The most common question families ask is: What size urn do I need? The answer is reassuringly simple—each pound of body weight corresponds to one cubic inch of ashes. For example, a 170-pound individual requires an urn with a capacity of approximately 170 cubic inches. Standard full-size urns typically hold 200 cubic inches or more, making them suitable for most adults.

Types of Cremation Urns

1. Traditional Cremation Urns:
These urns are designed to hold the full amount of ashes and are often chosen for display at home or placement in a columbarium.

2. Keepsake Urns:
Keepsake urns are considerably smaller and intended to hold a portion of the ashes, allowing sharing among family and friends or for dividing between several meaningful locations.

Materials and Personalization

Cremation urns come in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, ceramic, glass, and biodegradable options. Personalization is also available through engraving, artwork, and custom designs—creating a unique tribute that honors your loved one.

The Buying Process: What to Expect

• Order Placement: Choose your urn, personalize it if desired, and complete your order online.

• Shipping: Enjoy free standard ground shipping (3-5 business days) on orders over $99. Expedited and international options are also available.

• Order Tracking: Log into your account to access real-time order tracking via your 'Order History' section.

• Returns and Exchanges: Unused, non-personalized items are eligible for return within 30 days. Custom pieces are returnable only if defective or incorrect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy an urn elsewhere?
Absolutely. The FTC Funeral Rule protects your right to purchase any urn you wish, and funeral homes must honor your choice.

How do I transfer ashes to the urn?
Most families receive ashes from the funeral home in a sealed plastic bag suitable for placement directly into the urn. Many funeral homes will even assist with this step at no additional charge.

Can I travel with an urn?
Yes, urns are permitted on airplanes. However, it's best to use a non-metal temporary container during travels, as metal can complicate airport security screening.

A Final Thought

Choosing an urn is an act of love—a way to preserve memories and honor a unique life. If you have questions or need support during the process, the urnsforashes.com team is here to help, offering gentle guidance every step of the way.

For more detailed answers to your questions, visit our full Frequently Asked Questions page.