Transporting Ashes to Africa | What You Need to Know

Arranging transport of your urn to Africa

Transport of your loved one’s remains is arranged by you to ensure clarity and control throughout the process.

You choose how the urn is sent to us in Africa, based on what feels most appropriate for your situation. Some families prefer to use USPS, while others choose a professional international repatriation service.

Both options are acceptable, provided the urn and documentation meet carrier requirements. Links to our preferred service providers are supplied below.

Once the urn has arrived with us, all arrangements in Africa are handled on your behalf.

USPS Priority Mail Express International service

When using USPS to send cremated remains internationally, certain conditions apply.

USPS allows cremated remains to be mailed internationally using Priority Mail Express International.

The urn must be fully sealed and siftproof, meaning it cannot allow any contents to escape. The urn is then placed inside a strong outer container, with sufficient cushioning to prevent movement during transit.

The contents must be correctly declared on the required customs documentation.

These requirements are set by USPS and are intended to ensure safe, compliant transport. This will be the most cost-effective solution but requires you to arrange the box and complete the required documentation.

Full-service Repatriation Providers

Some families choose to work with professional funeral transport service providers when arranging international transport of cremated remains. These services specialise in cross-border handling and manage the process end to end.

They assist with documentation, customs requirements, carrier coordination, and tracking, reducing uncertainty during transit. Guidance on packaging and compliance is included, with support available if questions arise along the way.

This option suits families who prefer a managed process with additional oversight and support throughout transport.