Enaa Mari
Saying goodbye to your loved ones is never easy, and giving them a decent sendoff is usually the first step. Certain times, the dust doesn’t settle until you have to choose a casket, making it a challenging part of the process.
Since you are making this purchase at a difficult time, the decision can be a bit overwhelming. This is a time when you are vulnerable, grieving, and most likely working under time constraints. Ideally, not the best conditions for you to make a purchase decision.
We understand how tough the experience can be, and that’s why we’ve created a list of steps you can take to avoid the pitfall of overspending or picking a casket that isn’t a good fit for your loved one. Here’s what you need to keep in mind when buying caskets online, click here to see more about caskets.
1. The Type Of Casket
There are many different types of caskets, each with its unique set of features and finishing. The materials that make up a casket will dictate the cost but expect to find mostly wood and metal caskets.
Metal Caskets
Metal caskets are usually made out of bronze, copper, stainless steel, and carbon steel.
Caskets made of bronze and copper are the most durable. They will oxidize over time, but they last for a long time. They also tend to be the most expensive variant of metal caskets. Stainless steel and carbon steel caskets are more affordable, and you can select the thickness of the steel.
Wood Caskets
Wood caskets are the most common in the market and are made out of wood materials such as pine, willow, and poplar. Softwoods are more budget-friendly compared to caskets made from hardwoods like mahogany, cherry, or walnut.
If you want the hardwood look at a fraction of the price, you can go for a wood veneer finish.
2. Shape and Dimensions Of The Casket
Many caskets come in varying shapes. Some have rounded corners; some have square corners. Others have contoured sides. Some caskets come with customized corners. It is a tasteful way to pay tribute to something the deceased was fond of, such as a beloved sports team or a favorite hobby.
When it comes to dimensions, the length of a casket is not the issue most of the time but the width. Standard casket sizes vary with the model, and people are generally quite bad at estimating dimensions. When buying a casket online, you should always request specific dimensions.
If the deceased is larger than the average person, you may want to consider purchasing an “oversized” casket.
3. Price Of The Casket
Caskets can cost a few thousand to tens of thousands, depending on the materials, size, and extra features. But setting a budget helps you narrow down your options to get something in line with your pocket.
The good thing with buying caskets online is that you can shop around with ease, checking different sites and comparing the prices to get one that fits your budget and preferences. Online vendors offer much more comprehensive selections of caskets compared to funeral homes.
Additionally, try and find out about delivery times and extra charges for shipping or transportation. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Any reputable vendor who sells caskets online must be transparent and comfortable with questions.
You should not feel pressured to make a purchase or have to settle for something you don’t want.
4. Extra Features And Modifications
When you have identified a model you like, you should also consider extra features such as the interior and potential engravings.
You can opt for a simple crepe interior or a luxurious velvet interior. There are many materials to choose from, including satin, linen, and velour. When it comes to engravings, some coffins come with elaborate carvings and embroidered head panels. They are beautiful to look at and a fitting way to send off the deceased.
All the same, remember to keep your budget in mind. Customizing a casket with special modifications comes with extra charges.
Send Your Loved One-off With Style and Dignity
You don’t have to go to a funeral home just to buy a casket, as you can just do it online from retail vendors. Online vendors are cheaper, and they will save you the time you would have spent having to go through several funeral homes just to find an ideal casket.
Be sure to buy a casket online and give your loved one the befitting sendoff they deserve.
