Losing a loved one is always challenging, and having to fly across the ocean and several countries to retrieve or deliver that person’s ashes can be a challenge on a completely different level. During a difficult time of loss, one more stress is added to your life. We understand our clients’ substantial emotional stress. We know how important it is to fulfill the deceased’s wish to be buried where he/she wished to be buried. We also understand relatives who want to have the opportunity to visit the graves of their loved ones regularly and, therefore, asked us to bring ashes from another country to the United States.
International travel with crematory remains is a complex process that demands additional effort and meticulous documentation. Each country and airline has distinct policies, making it essential to be well-prepared. While many airlines allow domestic transport of cremated remains within the United States, international travel differs. Do not rely on Google or other people’s experiences: policies can change with world conditions.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and foreign transportation authorities have a specific procedure for screening crematory remains. Their officers routinely conduct these types of screenings throughout all national airports. If the officer cannot determine that the container does not contain a prohibited item, the remains will not be permitted. This process is in place to ensure the safety and security of all passengers, including those traveling with crematory remains. Therefore, in case of any omissions, the passenger will not be allowed on the flight.
Proper documentation is the most critical part of this process. Every country has its laws and regulations for the transportation of cremated remains. Examples of documentation that you must provide us include the Death Certificate and Certificate of Cremation, Certificate of Cause of Death, Certificate that there are no foreign objects in the urn with ashes (it is critical because cremated remains are one of the many sensitive items that could be exploited by someone wanting to conceal prohibited items), and other documentation, depends of a specific situation. All international documents must be apostilled and translated to the corresponding language. Remember, the US Transportation Security Administration or any foreign transportation and customs authorities will not open containers with cremated remains, even if the passenger permits them. Therefore, the ashes must be sealed appropriately, accompanied by impeccable documentation, and, most importantly, by someone with experience transporting such delicate carry-ons. We understand the process of transporting cremated remains and the inheritance process. We pride ourselves on offering quality, reliable service to deal with these delicate and painful issues. Don’t hesitate to contact us at karina.duvall@gmail.com for help transporting ashes overseas from/to the United States or from/to any destinations, including Russia and Ukraine. We also take care of inheritance cases in such jurisdictions.