Beach at sunset

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Options for the Urn and Ashes

There are different decisions to do in relation to the ashes. See below for the standard urn.

Your Choice of Urn

We care about where urns come from. Our supplier visits the workshops where these urns are made, works only with manufacturers who maintain proper conditions, and supports Australian businesses wherever possible.

Options for the Standard Urn

Whilst most crematoria return ashes in a plain plastic container, we provide a selection of dignified tube urns at no extra cost. These serve well for scattering too, should you wish.

Scatter tube urn selection

Further Options

Should none of these suit, we offer access to over 1,000 urns through our supplier's catalogue — easy to browse online or download. We provide these at cost price, with a full price list available on request.

Timing

We order urns directly rather than holding stock, so occasionally your chosen urn may require ordering in. We'll advise you promptly if this affects your selection and keep you informed throughout.

What Are the Options for Transporting the Ashes?

  • This is usually done by appointment. It is advisable to bring someone for moral support rather than collecting the ashes alone. If you are uncertain about what to do with the ashes, crematoriums that have memorialisation options may provide guidance. However, crematoriums do not store ashes indefinitely, so it is important to contact them if you are unsure.

    If you make arrangements with Marc and Friends, we can discuss these details on your behalf.

  • Marc and Friends, like other funeral directors, can deliver the ashes in person within certain areas. If you live alone, consider having someone present when we arrive. Before receiving the ashes, think about a dignified and discrete place to keep them.

  • While some families are uncomfortable with posting ashes, it is a common practice. Australia Post allows ashes to be sent within Australia via tracked mail requiring a signature. This ensures that ashes can be accounted for during transit, and if no one is home, they will be held at the nearest post office for collection.

  • If you plan to transport ashes internationally, check with the consulate of your destination country to confirm their requirements. Most countries have straightforward procedures, though some, like Germany, have stringent regulations that make it nearly impossible to transport ashes there.

    It is important not to tamper with the urn in any way before travel, as customs officials need to be assured that it contains only ashes. If you are transporting only a portion of the ashes, ask the crematorium or funeral director for them to be provided in at least two urns. Some crematoriums place a sticker on the urn lid as a seal, which can assist with customs clearance.

    At a minimum, you will need:

    • A letter from the crematorium confirming the cremation details

    • A copy of your loved one’s death certificate

    When travelling, always carry the urn in your hand luggage to minimise the risk of loss.

  • For repatriation, ashes are typically sent via a freight forwarder from one international airport to another. This method is secure but comes at a cost. Families at the receiving end must collect the ashes in person or appoint someone to do so.

    Since 2024, Australia Post has permitted ashes to be posted internationally. However, some countries do not allow the receipt of ashes. For instance, France permits them, whereas the UK does not. The International Post Guide provides country-specific details.

    While postal delivery is cost-effective, ashes are irreplaceable if lost in transit. For this reason, international couriers such as FedEx do not transport ashes. The safest methods are either personal carriage when travelling or arranging shipment via a freight forwarder through a funeral director like Marc and Friends.

What to Do with the Ashes in Time?

There are many options for what to do with the ashes. You do not need to feel rushed. Some people make a decision in weeks but it is not uncommon for families to take years.

Here are some options:

Scattering the ashes — this has become more common — see more.

Keeping the ashes at home — this is fairly personal — see more

  • Some churches have a memorial garden for interring ashes, but availability is often limited due to space constraints and the need to maintain a dignified setting. Once these gardens reach capacity, some churches close them to new interments. Typically, they are open to former members of the congregation.

  • While this option can be costly to inter the ashes at a cemetery or crematorium, it provides a permanent place for remembrance. Memorialisation at a cemetery or crematorium ensures a recorded location for the ashes, preserving a lasting tribute for future generations.

  • Some families assume they can scatter ashes on a relative’s grave, but cemeteries typically do not permit this. The formal process involves interring the ashes within the grave, which is often more cost-effective than other interment options. You may also arrange to have your loved one’s name added to the existing gravestone.

  • If a family member is to be buried in the future, the ashes of a previously cremated loved one may be placed in the coffin. This requires prior approval from the cemetery, as it must be recorded in their records.

    There are generally no restrictions on placing the cremated remains of a pet with your loved one.