Start Here: You Have More Options Than You Think
Most families walk into a funeral home not knowing they can buy a casket anywhere. By the time they find out, they've already paid funeral home prices. This guide covers everything you need to make a confident, informed decision.
Step 1 — Know Your Rights
The FTC Funeral Rule gives you the legal right to purchase a casket from any retailer. The funeral home must accept it and cannot charge you a handling fee. Read more about your rights here.
Step 2 — Choose a Material
Steel Caskets
The most popular choice. 20-gauge is standard; 18-gauge is thicker and heavier. Both are appropriate for traditional burial. Available in a wide range of colours and interior fabrics.
Wood Caskets
Available in pine, poplar, and hardwoods. Natural, warm appearance. Required for Jewish and some other religious burials that specify a simple wooden casket.
Eco / Green Caskets
Untreated wood (pine or poplar) with no metal hardware. Biodegrades naturally. Required for certified green burial grounds.
Step 3 — Pick a Style and Interior
Caskets come in full-couch (one lid panel) and half-couch (two panel) styles. Most funeral visitations use half-couch. Interior fabrics are typically velvet or crepe in white, blue, or ivory.
Step 4 — Consider Delivery Timing
Snapfuneral ships within 24–48 hours of your order. Most families place their order the day of or day after the death occurs. Call your funeral home early to let them know a casket is en route — it simplifies logistics for everyone.
Step 5 — Confirm with the Funeral Home
Before placing your order, confirm:
- The funeral home's delivery address and receiving hours
- Any specific casket dimensions required (standard sizes fit almost all vaults)
- Whether they need any paperwork from the retailer
Snapfuneral provides a delivery confirmation and bill of sale with every order — everything the funeral home needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a casket?
Due to the nature of these purchases, all sales are final. We recommend confirming all details before ordering.
Do caskets come assembled?
Yes. All Snapfuneral caskets arrive fully assembled and ready for use.
What if there's damage on delivery?
Document and photograph any damage immediately. Contact us at info@snapfuneral.com within 24 hours of delivery and we'll resolve it promptly.