Repatriation

Repatriation is a service undertaken by ourselves and other specialist companies who ensure that your loved one is brought back to this country as soon as is practically possible.

National regulations and certain conditions or restrictions can vary greatly in different countries and for this reason we will liaise between the Foreign Office, the Home Office, Foreign Embassies and Consulates, Coroners and other Government departments to ensure that all documentation relating to inward (or outward) repatriation is speedily completed.

The vast majority of overseas repatriations are by air. We will organise a flight and the next of kin and Funeral Director (if overseas) will be advised of the time of arrival of the coffin.

International regulations require all coffins crossing international frontiers to be zinc or lead lined and sealed. On arrival in the UK these coffins are unsuitable for cremation and either the lining must be removed or another coffin provided. Because travel insurance cover ceases once the coffin has been delivered to our premises, the lining removal or substitute coffin becomes the responsibility of the person ordering the funeral. Despite hessian wrapping and or an outer case, coffins often arrive scratched or damaged and these expenses will not be met by the Insurance company concerned.

Once it is definitely known that the remains have arrived in the UK, funeral arrangements can be made. It is advisable to allow four to five days to elapse between the arrival of the remains and the actual funeral because of the complex paperwork required by the local Coroner and Home Office Regulations.

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