As burial fees account as the biggest contributor to rising funeral costs, more and more Brits are opting for cremation in the event of losing a loved one. Diminishing availability of burial plots, the rising costs that have come hand-in-hand with that scarcity and the decrease in popularity of religion have all contributed to making cremation the preferred option among UK citizens.
In 2019, burial costs have risen as a result of rising land prices. Whilst burials are the most expensive option, fees associated with planning a cremation have also increased, although by just 2.8%.
But what exactly is included in the cost of cremation? Which factors go into its formulation?
Cremation costs breakdown
The Royal London National Funeral Cost Index Report 2019 shows how the cost of a cremation virtually remained the same this year with an increase of just £3 to £3,250. In comparison to the average cost of a burial (£4,321), that’s a significant saving. Obviously, there is less need to purchase a burial plot and finance interment of the remains with cremation, but which other factors go into final cost?
Type of service
A traditional cremation will involve an elaborate service (normally in a church or crematorium), preparation and transportation of your loved one and any other accoutrements, such as flowers, catering and the coffin. A Direct Cremation, on the other hand, dispenses with all of those extras and provides a simple cremation, without an attendant funeral service. This can often be less than half the cost of a traditional cremation.
Funeral director fees
With both cremations and burials, much of the financial outlay will go on the fees charged by the funeral director, who is in charge of organising and overseeing the whole process. While funeral directors are generally caring and sympathetic individuals who want to do the best they can for you and your family, it’s important to remember that not all will charge the same price for their services. With that in mind, we encourage funeral planners to shop around with several funeral directors before choosing the right one. Use the location search on our website to receive a list of funeral directors local to you, making the funeral director search and enquiry process much easier.
Storage and transportation
In most cases, the funeral (be it cremation or burial) will take place one or two weeks after death; in special circumstances (be they religious or judicial), there may be an extra delay. This can all contribute to inflated prices of storing your loved one in a controlled and responsible setting. Meanwhile, the hire of a hearse or other vehicle to transport the body, as well as appointed pall bearers, can also increase the costs.
Final resting place of the ashes
When you choose to scatter, bury or keep your ashes, the receptacle in which they are stored will also add expense to the total price – but it won’t cost as much as a traditional headstone.
When budgeting for the cremation of a loved one (or for your own future cremation), it’s important to keep all of these factors in mind and come up with a practical yet appropriate approach that suits you. For free, impartial advice on how best to proceed, get in touch with us today on 01983 754 387.