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GMS Ashes Repatriation

Global Repatriation of Ashes or Cremated Remains

International Transport of Ashes: A Compassionate and Professional Service

 

Transporting ashes across international borders can be a sensitive and complex process. Whether a death has occurred abroad or a loved one’s final wish is to be laid to rest in another country, our role is to ensure those wishes are fulfilled with dignity and care.

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What Is Repatriation of Ashes?

 

Repatriation of ashes, also known as the transport of cremated remains, refers to the process of moving a loved one’s ashes from one country to another. This may be for burial, scattering, or safekeeping with family.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

We understand that international transport of ashes is not something most people are familiar with. Here are answers to some common questions:

  • Can I take ashes on a plane? – Yes

  • Can ashes be shipped internationally? – Yes

  • Can ashes be carried in hand luggage? – Yes

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Challenges and Considerations

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Flying with Ashes

 

While airlines do allow ashes to be transported either as cargo or in hand luggage, there are important guidelines to follow. The container must be made of a material that can be scanned by airport security - wood or biodegradable urns are recommended. Containers made of stone or metal may not pass security checks, and security personnel are not permitted to open them, even with consent.

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Shipping Ashes Internationally

 

Shipping ashes can be more complicated. Not all carriers offer this service, and regulations vary by country. Gormley Mortuary Support takes care of all legal and logistical requirements, ensuring compliance with international laws and finding the most cost-effective solution for you.

Courier services such as Royal Mail, FedEx, or DHL no longer accept cremated remains, and sending ashes as “undisclosed contents” is both risky and not recommended. These companies do not accept liability for lost items, which is why we never use them.

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Our Bespoke Door-to-Door Service

 

At Gormley Mortuary Support, we offer a dedicated, door-to-door service for the safe and respectful transport of ashes anywhere in the world. Unlike courier services, we personally manage every step of the journey.

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  • We know the name of the driver responsible for your loved one’s ashes from collection to delivery.

  • We collect at a time that suits you and deliver to funeral directors, crematoria, or directly to the family.

  • If a specific delivery time is required, we will arrange it.

  • Our service is tailored to meet your needs, offering peace of mind and personal attention at every stage.

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We are committed to providing a first-class service with compassion, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Request Quotation​

Please provide us with some information such as where the repatriation is to and from so we can provide a quotation to you. You can contact us using one of the following methods:

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