How Direct Cremation Works

The idea of a no-service cremation might seem strange. Yet, it is one many families have been embracing during COVID years. If you are curious about or considering direct cremation services in Windham, ME, this is how it works. 

First, a recap on what direct cremation is. It is a form of cremation that does not involve a formal funeral or pre-funeral events. 

Short of donating the body to science, this is the most affordable option for disposition. 

When you arrange one with a cremation service, it typically goes like this: 

1. The cremation provider (or funeral home) collects the body from a morgue or hospital 
2. You (with other relevant family members) and the provider complete all paperwork and permits. There is no viewing, visitation, or wake. 
   
3. The body is cremated immediately, without any form of body preparation. There is no need for a casket. The body is cremated in a simple cardboard container. 
   
4. The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary container or an urn. 

It is a swift process that usually happens within a day or two after death. That’s not to say it can’t take longer than this. 

In cases when the family hasn’t decided on the preferred form of disposition, the funeral home or cremation provider could hold the body in refrigerated storage at extra cost. 

How much does direct cremation cost? 

Price varies between cremation providers and funeral homes but ultimately depends on what you want for your money. 

On average, a direct cremation package includes these services: 

• Transportation and logistic
• Direct and private cremation 
  
• Completion of post-death paperwork (death certificate and notifying social security) 
  
• Return of cremated remains 

If saving money is a primary reason for considering direct cremation, reach out to different cremation providers to find out the costs and what it covers. 

Also, you should note that the direct cremation cost does not cover whatever you choose to do with the cremated remains. 

Suppose you plan on burying the cremains or interring them in a columbarium. In that case, you have to consider additional expenses such as headstone or grave marker, plot or columbarium niche, and other cemetery fees. 

Service Options after Cremation 

If you still wish to have a formal service, you can have one after cremation. The umbrella term for this arrangement is a ‘memorial service,’ but not necessarily in the traditional form. 

You could have a scattering ceremony, memorial tree planting ceremony, or a celebration of life event. 

Since the body is not present, you have limitless options on what to do with remains and how you honor their passing. 

How to Arrange a Direct Cremation 

At Cremation of Southern Maine, we provide a simple cremation package you can arrange online or over the phone. No funeral home visit is required. 

Our cremation services in Windham, ME, also offer urns, caskets, and grief resources. You can count on us to handle everything so you can focus on mourning the loss of your loved one. To get started, call us or make arrangements online today.