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The United States Postal Service (USPS) is the only entity legally authorized to ship cremated remains, both within the United States and internationally. This unique position has led USPS to develop established protocols to handle these special mailings with care.
To ensure remains arrive safely at their intended destination, you must follow specific USPS regulations and guidelines. Recent updates to these regulations, effective March 1, 2025, now mandate the use of specific USPS-branded packaging for all cremated remains shipments. This change enhances the visibility and security of these sensitive packages as they move through the postal network.
Domestic vs. International Shipping
While the fundamental principles of packaging remain consistent, there are critical distinctions between domestic and international shipments.
Domestic Shipping
For domestic shipping, cremated remains can be mailed to any address within the United States, provided all USPS preparation and packaging instructions are followed.
International Shipping
International shipping involves additional considerations:
- Mailing cremated remains to a foreign country is permissible only if the destination country allows receiving such contents
- Priority Mail Express International service must be available to that specific location
- Senders must verify these regulations by consulting the Individual Country Listing in the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, International Mail Manual (IMM®)
- International shipments require customs declaration forms clearly identifying the contents as “Cremated Remains”
- Depending on the destination country’s regulations, additional documentation like a cremation certificate might be required
Step-by-Step Guide to Mailing Cremated Remains
Step 1: Obtain the Required Cremated Remains Kit
Effective March 1, 2025, all shipments of cremated remains must use the USPS Priority Mail Express Cremated Remains box (BOX-CRE). These specialized kits can be ordered free of charge through the online Postal Store on USPS.com.
Two kit options are offered:
- Kit 1: Includes a sturdy Priority Mail Express box and Priority Mail Express tape
- Kit 2: Provides additional items such as a self-sealing plastic bag and more bubble cushioning
While some retail Post Office locations might have these boxes available, ordering online is recommended to ensure availability.
Step 2: Prepare the Inner Container
The cremated remains must be placed within a strong, durable, and sift-proof inner container that won’t allow any loose powder to leak during transit.
For international shipments, the inner container must be a funeral urn.
Consider these recommendations:
- Consult with a licensed funeral director to select the most suitable inner container
- For added protection, place the sift-proof container inside a self-sealing plastic bag (provided in Kit 2)
- Label the inner container with both sender’s and recipient’s addresses in case the outer label becomes damaged
Step 3: Use the USPS-Provided Outer Box
The USPS Priority Mail Express Cremated Remains box must be used as the outer shipping package for all cremated remains mailings.
Ensure you:
- Use sufficient cushioning material around the inner container to prevent shifting during transit
- Place an additional paper inside the outer box with both sender’s and recipient’s address information
- Securely seal the box using the Priority Mail Express tape provided in the kit
Step 4: Address and Label Properly
When addressing the package:
- Use complete return and delivery addresses
- Write or print address labels clearly using permanent ink
- Include correct ZIP Codes for both sender and recipient
- Generate Priority Mail Express labels through Click-N-Ship on the USPS website for tracking benefits
The previously required orange Label 139 is no longer necessary as the USPS-branded box now has pre-printed markings that clearly identify the contents.
For international shipping, you must clearly indicate “Cremated Remains” on the required customs declaration form found in IMM Section 123.61.
Step 5: Prepare Documentation (Especially for International Shipping)
USPS doesn’t have specific documentation requirements for domestic shipments, but international shipping may require additional paperwork:
- Attach cremation certificate (if available) to the outer box
- Include any other permits required by the destination country
- Ensure you’ve obtained all necessary permissions and comply with the national laws of both origin and destination countries
Step 6: Choose the Right Service
For domestic destinations, cremated remains must be shipped using Priority Mail Express service, which provides expedited handling and tracking capabilities.
For international destinations, use Priority Mail Express International, but verify this service is available for the specific country.
Remember that availability of Priority Mail Express International to a country doesn’t automatically mean the country permits the import of cremated remains; both conditions must be satisfied.
Consider adding extra services such as additional insurance and return receipt for added security and delivery confirmation.
USPS Regulations in Detail
Acceptable Containers and Packaging
- Mandatory outer packaging: USPS Priority Mail Express Cremated Remains box (BOX-CRE)
- Inner container: Must be strong, durable, and sift-proof
- International shipments: Inner container must be a funeral urn
- Cushioning: Sufficient material must surround the inner container
Mandatory Labeling and Marking
- Complete return and delivery addresses are required for all shipments
- International packages: Content must be identified as “Cremated Remains” on customs forms
- USPS-branded box comes with pre-printed markings, eliminating the need for separate Label 139
Documentation Requirements
- Domestic: No explicit requirements for documentation
- International: Customs declaration form is mandatory
- A cremation certificate and other permits may be required by destination countries
Shipping Restrictions
- Domestic: No specific restrictions within the United States if all regulations are followed
- International: Restrictions depend on destination country policies
- Verify both service availability and the destination country’s regulations regarding the import of cremated remains
Best Practices for Secure and Respectful Shipping
To ensure the cremated remains arrive safely and respectfully:
- Handle the inner container with utmost care and respect
- Double-check that the inner container is completely sealed and sift-proof
- Use ample cushioning material around the inner container
- Place the inner container inside the provided self-sealing plastic bag when available
- Include contact information inside the outer box as backup
- Securely seal the outer box with the Priority Mail Express tape
- Generate shipping labels through Click-N-Ship for tracking capabilities
- Consider additional services like insurance and return receipt
- For international shipments, thoroughly research destination country requirements
- Inform the recipient about the shipment and provide tracking information
- Visit your local Post Office for personalized guidance if you have questions
Common Questions About Mailing Cremated Remains
Is USPS the only option for shipping cremated remains? Yes, the United States Postal Service is the only legal entity that ships cremated remains both domestically and internationally.
Do I have to use the USPS Cremated Remains Kit? Yes, effective March 1, 2025, the use of the USPS Priority Mail Express Cremated Remains box is mandatory for all shipments.
Where can I get the Cremated Remains Kit? These kits can be ordered free of charge from the Postal Store on USPS.com.
Can I ship cremated remains internationally? Yes, but only to countries that allow such shipments and where Priority Mail Express International service is available.
What documentation do I need? For domestic shipments, generally no specific documentation beyond proper addressing is required. For international shipments, a customs declaration is necessary, and the destination country may require a cremation certificate and other permits.
How much does it cost to ship cremated remains? The primary cost will be the postage for Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail Express International, which varies based on weight and destination. The Cremated Remains Kit itself is provided free of charge.
How secure is mailing cremated remains? USPS has established specific regulations and mandates specialized packaging to enhance security. Priority Mail Express also provides tracking services.
What if the package gets lost? While rare, using tracking and including contact information inside and outside the package increases recovery chances. Additional insurance can provide financial compensation if needed.
Can I ship pet cremated remains? Yes, the same regulations and procedures apply to shipping both human and animal cremated remains.
Ensuring a Safe Journey
Mailing cremated remains requires careful adherence to USPS guidelines. By following these regulations, using the mandatory USPS Priority Mail Express Cremated Remains box, and implementing recommended best practices, you can ensure the remains are handled with care and arrive safely at their final destination.
For more information, visit the USPS Cremated Remains information page or contact your local Post Office directly.
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