International Transportation

How to Transport Human Remains Internationally

All the steps you'll need to transport human remains back to the U.S. from or to abroad.

Losing a loved one is never easy, and it can be especially difficult if they pass away while abroad. But if this happens, there are important steps you can take to make sure their remains are safely transported from or to the United States. The process can be complex, but with careful planning and guidance, you can navigate it with confidence and compassion.

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First, it's important to contact the local authorities in the country where your loved one passed away, as well as the United States embassy or consulate. They can provide guidance on the specific procedures and requirements for transporting human remains from that country.

Next, you'll need to obtain the necessary documentation, such as a death certificate and any required permits or certificates. If these documents are in a foreign language, they may need to be translated into English or legalized with an apostille.

You'll also need to choose a funeral home or repatriation service experienced in handling international transportation of human remains. They can assist with coordinating logistics, securing necessary permits, arranging transportation, and ensuring compliance with local and international regulations.

When it comes to transporting the remains, you have options for how they are packaged. A casket or coffin is the more traditional option, but shipping cremated remains in an urn may be more suitable for some families. The funeral home can help you choose the best option for your situation.

Once all the arrangements are made, you'll need to coordinate with the airline or shipping company to transport the remains.

Finally, a funeral home or representative in the United States will receive the remains and handle customs and immigration procedures.

It's important to note that specific requirements and procedures can vary depending on the countries involved, so it's always a good idea to consult with professionals experienced in international repatriation.

And in some cases, travel assistance companies like Emergency Assistance Plus can help with transporting the remains of a member back home if they pass away while traveling on a trip.

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