Many families who cannot attend a burial at sea choose to mail their loved one’s cremated remains to Sea Services for an unattended scattering. This process is safe, secure, and regulated — but it must be done properly to ensure dignity, protection, and compliance with postal requirements.
Here’s a clear step-by-step guide.
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is the only carrier legally authorized to ship cremated remains. All packages must be sent via Priority Mail Express, which includes tracking and expedited delivery.
UPS and FedEx do not allow cremated remains. Always use USPS.
USPS provides Label 139: Cremated Remains free of charge. This must be applied clearly to the outside of the package so postal workers handle it appropriately.
You can request Label 139 at your local post office or order it online through USPS.
Cremated remains must first be placed in a sealed, durable inner container (often the original plastic or cardboard container provided by the crematory).
Place the inner container inside a strong outer box (such as a USPS Priority Mail Express box). Add padding (bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or crumpled paper) around the inner container to prevent shifting.
The outer box must be taped securely on all seams.
Please include:
Any special instructions (flowers, notes, or personalization requests).
✔ Use USPS Priority Mail Express
✔ Apply Label 139: Cremated Remains to package
✔ Seal ashes in a leak-proof inner container
✔ Place inner container inside sturdy padded outer box
✔ Add family contact info + Sea Services authorization form
✔ Tape all seams securely before mailing
Mail cremated remains to the official Sea Services mailing address, which we provide upon booking. USPS Priority Express typically delivers in 1–2 business days.
Once received, our team will confirm with you and schedule the unattended sea scattering within a 30-day window (weather permitting).
Mailing cremated remains may feel daunting, but when prepared properly, it is safe, respectful, and fully legal. At Sea Services, we guide you through each step and handle your loved one’s ashes with the utmost care and professionalism.
Every unattended service includes a Certificate of Burial at Sea with GPS coordinates, and all details are reported to the EPA’s official portal for compliance.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you plan a dignified and meaningful sea burial for your loved one.
Inquire now