When put in the unfortunate situation of choosing a casket for a loved one, many options are available out there. However, it’s important to choose a product and service that works with your grieving process and pays the right amount of respect to the loved one in question.
Maybe you do not wish to go back and forth with a casket company or be subjected to marked-up rates funeral homes often charge.
Choosing caskets online might be the best option — but it’s necessary to find a service and product that is in line with your loved one’s wishes.
Common Casket Types
There are more than a few casket types to choose from and buy online, whether you go to a brick-and-mortar casket retailer/provider or seek to purchase a casket online.
Bronze and Copper Caskets
Caskets made of precious metals like bronze and copper will more likely stand the test of time as these caskets are durable and rust-resistant, which is a quality that steel lacks. Bronze and copper caskets are also visually appealing, an elegant way to pay respect to your loved one.
Hardwood Caskets
Hardwood caskets are extremely common and there are multiple factors that you should consider before making an online purchase. Casket woods come in varieties like cherry, oak, walnut, pine, and mahogany. The general cost of hardwood caskets might vary. It’s a good idea to consult a specialist who will help you make the best decision for your budget and situation.
Stainless Steel Caskets
Stainless steel caskets are extremely durable just like bronze and copper caskets, however, stainless steel costs far less than bronze and copper. Stainless steel represents the least expensive type of metal caskets available on the market, which generally come in 20-gauge, 18-gauge, and 16-gauge. Stainless steel is also more durable than standard steel.
Wood Veneer Caskets
Wood veneer caskets are a perfectly respectable option and are more affordable than hardwood caskets. Wood veneer caskets still capture a visually appealing aesthetic. Wood veneer caskets are also thought of to be a sustainable alternative to hardwood.
Green Caskets
Green caskets are 100% biodegradable, which might be the right choice for people who advocate for the natural world. In some cases, a green casket might come at a loved one’s request.
Tips for Buying Caskets Online
When purchasing a casket, perform your due diligence to ensure you make a smart purchase.
Set a Budget
Caskets might start anywhere from a few thousand dollars and quickly rise into the tens of thousands. Set a budget to ensure you avoid overspending — unless there is already a fund in place for all expenses. When buying a casket from a funeral home, the funeral home director/representative will show you a price list. You’ll likely see the price list before you see any of the actual caskets. Doing so will automatically assist you in narrowing down your search to the selections that sit in your price range.
You also have the right to purchase a casket from a different provider — funeral homes are required to accept caskets purchased online, for instance.
When in Doubt, Adhere to Your Loved One’s Wishes
We all know that when someone close to us passes, there are tough decisions to make. Instead of avoiding the issues, it’s a good idea to think of solutions to existing and potential problems. When you have a question that you might be unsure of, remembering and respecting your loved one should come first.
If your loved one has left specific instructions, it’s best to follow these, and you will also relieve yourself of several decisions to figure out on your own or with your family. Instructions left behind will often specifically mention what type of casket your loved one wants.
But, just the same, many people do not like thinking about these things while life is going on. Often a person might not leave behind any plans. In these cases, it might be a good idea to think about conversations you’ve had with your loved one, not to mention your loved one’s personality. This might narrow down your choices as far as casket material, linings, trim, and other essential choices go.
Seek Advice When Needed
Call around and ask for some advice from professionals operating within the funeral industry. They might have some good advice that will help you make an informed purchase. It’s also a good idea to talk to people who were close to your loved one. In many cases, you will find out new information that will help you make better decisions.
Some individuals might even consider purchasing caskets online for themselves or others, in perhaps more rare cases. Generally, casket retailers and providers can accommodate any special requests and adhere to a variety of different needs and budgets.
