Traditional Cremation and Direct Cremation - A Comparison

There are many difficult decisions to be made when considering the burial arrangements of your loved one. Many questions may arise regarding the ceremony, at Urns For Angels we care deeply about providing support and answers to these questions.

In this article, we will be explaining the distinctions between these two types of cremations to assist you in your decision.

Traditional Cremation

Cremations that follow the traditional method have a longer time between death and cremation. In this method, the deceased will be transported to a funeral home and will undergo the usual preparations, such as embalming and dressing for the funeral service.

A memorial service with a private viewing for friends and family as well as witnesses to the cremation will be held. Later, the ashes will be given to the family. Different options could be included or offered for an extra fee such as a rental casket, flowers, etc. 

The average cost of the traditional cremation ceremony is £3300, though this may vary depending on the options mentioned above, and can reach up to £4000.

Direct Cremation

The direct cremation method, on the other hand, requires less time between death and cremation, as the body is directly taken from the morgue or hospital to the crematorium. The body is cremated without any preparation. Direct cremation focuses only on transportation, cremation and the vessel for your loved one’s ashes.

It is done with the same dignity as the traditional method, but in this way you can say goodbye to your loved one in your own way, allowing you to schedule a more personal memorial service beyond the cremation itself, without pressure or restrictions.

If you want a smaller ceremony for personal reasons or according to the wishes of your loved one, then you should consider this method.

The average cost of a direct cremation is £1550, though this may vary depending on the location.

*Source : RoyalLondon.com 's 2020 Funeral Cost report.

The Cost Differences

As in the traditional cremation method, the deceased undergo the usual preparations, it can be costly and take more time. Direct cremation is a more affordable option, with less time being taken to get to the cremation process as it will not have any preparations such as embalming and dressing. The high standard and quality of the traditional method are not compromised in direct cremation.