Questions About the Cremation Process

What is cremation?

It is a process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame.  For more technical information about the cremation process, we encourage you to view information online at the National Funeral Directors Association.

How long does the actual cremation take?

It depends on the weight of the individual.  For an average size adult, cremation takes from two to three hours at normal operating temperature between 1,500 degrees F to 2,000 degrees F.

What happens after the cremation is complete?

All organic bone fragments as well as non-consumed metal items are "swept" into the front of the cremation chamber and into a stainless steel cooling pan. All non-consumed items, like metal from clothing, hip joints, and bridge work, are separated from the cremated remains.  Items such as dental gold and silver are non-recoverable and are commingled in with the cremated remains.  Remaining bone fragments are then processed in a machine to a consistent size and placed into a temporary or permanent urn, selected by the family.  Tri-State Cremation Society then returns the cremated remains vis USPS to the next of kin to the address designated on the Cremation Authorization Form.

Can the remains be picked up? 

At this time, all remains are delivered directly to next of kin via USPS.  We have found this procedure best in order to ensure remains are received by our families in a safe, timely manner.  If other arrangements are needed, please contact our office directly to discuss 302-764-1299 or 1-855-396-3700.

When are the cremated remains returned?

The cremated remains are returned to the next of kin designated on the Cremation Authorization form approximately 14 days after Tri-State has received the medical examiners permit authorizing the cremation.  Depending on the state, a permit may take up to 5 or more days to acquire.

What do the cremated remains look like?

Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light grey in color.  The remains of an average size adult usually weigh between four to eight pounds.

In what kind of container are the cremated remains returned?

You may supply your own urn, select an urn within our online arrangement process or choose our packages with choice of urn included.  If no urn is provided or selected, per state requirements the cremated remains are then placed in a basic acrylic container and returned to the next of kin at the designated address for no additional fees. 

Are all the cremated remains returned?

With the exception of minute and microscopic particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all of the cremated remains are returned to the family.

Is cremation a substitute for a funeral?

No, cremation is only part of the commemorative experience. In fact, cremation can actually increase your options when planning a funeral or memorial service. Cremation gives people the flexibility and time to search for types of tributes that reflect the life being honored.

What can be done with the cremated remains?

There are many options.  Commonly, cremated remains are placed in an urn and committed to an indoor or outdoor mausoleum or columbarium, interred in a family burial plot, or included in a special urn garden.  Remains can be kept at home, and also scattered on private property or at a place that was special to the person. Today, cremated remains can even become part of an ocean reef or made into diamonds.  Our staff will be happy to discuss these options with you if needed.

Concerns About Cremation

Are there any laws governing cremation?

Cremation regulations vary from state-to-state.  Tri-State Cremation Society of Delaware Valley serves most counties of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, & Delaware and is licensed to uphold all state regulations to the strictest of details.

Can two cremations be performed at once?

Never. Federal and State laws prohibit more than one cremation per chamber. Cremation chambers are also not of sufficient size to accommodate more than one adult. 

How can I be sure I receive the correct remains?

We own and operate our private crematory so your loved one never leaves our care.  We have developed the most rigorous set of operating policies and procedures in order to maximize our level of quality and minimize the potential for human error.  Positive identification of the deceased is assured throughout each stage of the cremation process. We only allow certified professionals to operate our cremation equipment.

 Urns, Caskets AND Embalming

Do I need an urn?

An urn is not required by law but you may provide an urn if you wish.  An urn may be desired if there is to be a memorial service or the cremated remains are to be interred in a cemetery.  If an urn is not provided nor selected in our online arrangement process, the cremated remains will be returned to the address provided on the Cremation Authorization Form in a temporary acrylic container.

Is a casket needed for cremation?

No, a casket is not required for cremation.  All that is required by state law is a rigid container which is cremated with the body and that is included in all packages Tri-State Cremation Society offers.

Is embalming required prior to cremation?

For our simple, low cost, direct cremations no.  Certain circumstances for other establishments, however, may require embalming.