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Three Parts of Quotation from Funeral Directors
Professional fees
Professional fees are usually not itemised in the quote from the funeral director. These fees cover the things the funeral directors do using their own resources.
Generally these tasks include collecting, transporting, and preparing the body, and providing chapel or viewing facilities as well as staff, a hearse and mourners’ cars. This cost also includes the ‘organising’ they do on your behalf, such as speaking with clergy, organising the cemetery or crematorium, arranging for medical or death certificates and ordering flowers and placing obituaries.
The fees will vary according to which funeral director you use and the level of service you choose. Remember that you will be charged for every service you agree to use. It is useful to do your research.
Our research has found that funeral directors’ professional service fees fluctuate wildly, and vary from State to State. For example, Choice (2011) found that professional fees can cost anything from $450 to $2,750. Transport of the body can vary between $129 and $1,995. Storage of the body can cost between $165 and $352, body preparation from $200 to $480 and collection of certificates between $75 and $134.
Coffins and caskets
Coffins are usually less expensive than caskets. Coffins and caskets with more elaborate fittings, linings and timbers are more expensive. For example, Choice (2011) found that prices for basic particleboard or wood coffins start at $700, but the ones you’ll most likely be introduced to will cost between about $4000 and $9000. Metal caskets can range between $7000 and $28000.
Disbursements
A disbursement is a fee charged by a third party which the funeral director pays on your behalf. Necessary disbursements include the fees charged by a doctor for medical certificates and permits or fees charged by a cemetery or crematorium.
Other disbursements or “add-ons” may include newspaper notices, flowers or refreshments you have requested. The funeral director should only pass the actual cost on to you. Make sure you confirm the actual costs of disbursements to avoid being overcharged.
Be clear about how much you prepared to pay. If a funeral director can’t meet your price, shop elsewhere.
Peter Erceg
Peter Erceg is the Founder and Owner of eziFunerals — Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority. With more than 40 years of experience in government and public health, Peter has become one of the country’s leading voices on funeral transparency, consumer rights, and ethical funeral practices. Through eziFunerals, Peter has built a national platform that empowers Australian families to make informed end-of-life decisions — free from pressure, commissions, and confusion. His goal is simple: "to help every Australian plan smarter, save money, and choose funeral services with confidence." 🕊 eziFunerals was founded by Peter in 2011, as an independent funeral comparison and planning platform that allows consumers to: • Compare local funeral directors and transparent quotes, • Understand real funeral costs across Australia, and • Connect with trusted, independent funeral homes that uphold the Fair Funeral Promise. As Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority, eziFunerals is recognised by media, consumers, and funeral professionals for its leadership in price transparency and consumer protection. “We believe every family deserves a fair, dignified, and affordable farewell — without hidden fees or sales pressure.” 📘 Peter is the author of What Kind of Funeral: A Self-Help Guide to Planning a Meaningful Funeral, a practical guide that has helped thousands of Australians understand their options and avoid unnecessary costs. He regularly contributes articles and commentary on: • Funeral cost transparency and industry reform, • Prepaid funerals and consumer protection, • Emerging trends in eco-friendly and digital memorials, and • The role of AI and technology in end-of-life planning. 🎙 Peter and eziFunerals have been featured in major Australian media outlets including ABC News. His insights continue to shape the national conversation on funeral costs, consumer rights, and ethical practices in the funeral industry. ⚖️ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Peter Erceg are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of eziFunerals or its members. The information provided on this site is general in nature and should not be taken as personal, legal, or financial advice. Consumers are encouraged to conduct their own research and compare funeral services that best meet their needs and circumstances.