How to Transport Cremated Remains with Care

When a loved one passes, distance can introduce challenges for laying them to rest. You may be managing arrangements from another state, or you may have family members in different parts of the country—each hoping to do something meaningful with a portion of the ashes. Whatever the reason, you might be wondering how to safely and respectfully transport cremated remains.

Whether you plan to divide ashes among family, travel with them by plane or car, or send them by mail, this guide offers helpful information to support you during this process.

Dividing Cremation Ashes Among Loved Ones

In some families, each person wants to keep a part of their loved one close. Some people also request that their remains be scattered in multiple places—a hometown, a favorite vacation spot, or near loved ones who have passed. There are many valid, heartfelt reasons for dividing cremated remains.

If you’d like help with this, your funeral director can divide the ashes for you. This can be especially helpful if the experience feels emotionally overwhelming or if you’re worried about making a mistake. However, some families prefer to do it themselves, often as part of a personal memorial at home.

A road through a forest on a damp autumn day, representing the journey to transport a loved one's ashes

If you choose to divide ashes yourself, it helps to:

  • Work indoors, on a table or counter, with a cloth or newspaper underneath.
  • Use a funnel and a small scoop to portion the ashes into new containers.
  • Wear gloves if you’d like, and keep the space free of drafts or open windows.
  • Take your time. It’s okay if this process brings up emotions—it’s a part of saying goodbye.

Whether each person receives a keepsake urn, a piece of memorial jewelry, or simply a small portion of ashes to keep or scatter, the goal is the same: to honor your loved one in a way that feels meaningful to you.

Traveling with Cremated Remains

If you need to bring ashes with you as you travel, there are a few different ways to do so.

By Car

Traveling by car is straightforward. You’ll want to use a secure container with a tight-fitting lid and keep any paperwork from the funeral home with you. If you’re crossing state lines, it’s a good idea to carry a copy of the death certificate or cremation certificate, just in case.

By Plane

If you’re flying, cremated remains are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage—but most families find carry-on is the safest choice. Before you fly, contact your airline to review their specific policies.

To prepare for air travel:

  • Choose a TSA-compliant urn made from materials like wood or biodegradable plastic. Avoid metal, stone, or ceramic, as they can be difficult to scan.
  • Pack the urn securely and make sure it fits under the seat or in the overhead bin.
  • Carry important documents with you, including the death certificate, cremation certificate, and any paperwork from the funeral home.
  • Let the TSA agent know you are carrying cremated remains. Out of respect, they will not open the container.

Many families also choose to use a temporary or travel urn while flying, transferring the ashes into a more decorative or permanent urn later.

Shipping Cremated Remains

If traveling isn’t an option—or if you’re sending ashes to another family member—mailing cremated remains through the United States Postal Service (USPS) is a safe and legal option.

USPS is currently the only mail service in the U.S. that ships human ashes, and they require the use of Priority Mail Express. You can also order a free Cremated Remains Shipping Kit from the USPS website to help simplify the process.

Here’s what to keep in mind when mailing ashes:

  • Use a sift-proof container, placed inside a sealed plastic bag and cushioned with bubble wrap or foam.
  • Place everything inside a sturdy outer box and clearly label the package using Label 139 (Cremated Remains).
  • Include documentation such as the death certificate and cremation paperwork.
  • For international shipments, check the destination country’s customs laws. Some require documents in English, and some countries may have specific import requirements.

Shipping ashes may feel unfamiliar, but it can be a practical and respectful way to help your family stay connected—no matter where they live.

Supporting You Through the Journey

Whether you’re traveling with ashes or mailing them to someone you love, it’s normal to feel unsure or overwhelmed. These moments are tender and deeply personal, and you deserve all the support you need to navigate them.

At CremationSociety.com, we’re here to help. If you have questions about dividing remains, preparing for travel, or shipping cremated ashes, we’ll walk you through each step with care and clarity. Because while grieving is never easy, we believe cremation should be simple.

To learn more or speak with someone about your options, call us at 800-922-7773.