Transporting bodies into or out of Australia is very expensive, because of the cost of both preparation and transportation. Funeral directors must be engaged in both countries to ensure that international health and transport regulations are adhered to.
When sending bodies overseas, the receiving country’s consular and health regulations must be followed. In general, embalming of a body is required for transportation internationally. Freezing the body or using dry ice can be used during transportation of an unembalmed body as an alternative method of preservation. A certified copy of the death certificate needs to be provided. Clearance must be obtained from the country’s quarantine authorities and health department. The recipient at the final destination must confirm that they have received the body.
The documents required include Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade clearance, embalming certificates, airline confirmations, notary of documents, translations (if required), consular approvals, Health Department letters, medical letters and the Certified Copy of Death Certificate to name a few. Your Australian funeral director will gather all documentation required for repatriation and do this as smoothly and as quickly as possible, however it is often a lengthy and time-consuming process.
Bodies being brought into Australia must be similarly embalmed and sealed in a coffin.
The name and address of the receiver must be specified. Bodies coming in to Australia must also have quarantine approval.
The funeral director coordinates the procedure, which also involves customs and consular staff or the Australian High Commission in the other country. Customs and airlines will want to be satisfied of the accuracy of the documentation. Costs will start from about $8500, plus freight, to transport a body to Europe.
Transporting ashes
Transporting ashes into and out of Australia is a simple procedure, but to ensure a smooth process it is best to consult a funeral director. Ashes can be posted or carried in hand luggage.
The ashes must be in a container accompanied by a cremation certificate (which confirms the contents) and a customs declaration. Ashes contained in a polyurethane container can be sent by airmail through Australia Post.
About eziFunerals
eziFunerals supports individuals and families cope with end of life decisions, death and funerals. We are an independent, Australian-owned and operated company. We are not part of any other funeral company.
Our member Funeral Directors are chosen for their knowledge, quality, service, personalisation and experience. They go above and beyond, and will take the time to support the family.
For more information or to make contact with a trusted Independent funeral director, call eziFunerals on 1300 236 402 or visit www.ezifunerals.com.au.
Peter Erceg
Peter Erceg is the Owner and Founder of eziFunerals. He has had a long history within the funeral industry, and is a published author of ‘What Kind Of Funeral: A self help guide to planning a meaningful funeral’. Prior to eziFunerals, Peter worked in the public sector and health industry for more than 30 years. The views and opinions expressed on posts are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of eziFunerals and members.
