Buying a Cremation Urn Online

Purchasing an urn is a deeply personal decision. Whether you're planning ahead or honoring the memory of a loved one, the right urn reflects dignity, remembrance, and care. Thankfully, buying a cremation urn online offers both convenience and a wide variety of styles to suit every need and budget. But with so many options, where do you even start?

Here’s a thoughtful, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Start with the Purpose

Understanding how the urn will be used helps narrow your choices. In particular, consider how the urn will be used in the long term.

• Will the urn be displayed at home? If so, consider decorative urns made of ceramic, wood, or metal.
• Will you display the urn in a niche? Funeral homes and columbarium niches usually have specific size requirements. Be sure you know the height and width that will work.
• The urn will be buried. Look for burial-ready urns that meet cemetery requirements. If the cemetery requires a vault, there may be size requirements.
• The ashes will be scattered. Lightweight urns or biodegradable options are best. There are many beautiful urns specifically designed for scattering. There are choices for water scattering as well as scattering on land.
• Will you keep some ashes as a memento? Smaller urns allow multiple family members to hold a portion of the ashes, making it easier for them to share the memory. There is also cremation jewelry, as well as artistic versions that incorporate a small amount of remains.

Determine the Size You Need

Urns are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Be sure to know what size works for your needs.

• Standard adult: Holds approximately 200 cubic inches of ashes (1 lb of body weight ≈ 1 cubic inch)
• Companion: Designed for two sets of remains
• Keepsake: Holds a small portion of ashes. These are often decorative and come in a variety of styles and shapes.

For more information on selecting the proper size urn, visit our “What Size Urn Should I Buy?” post.

Choose a Style That Honors Your Loved One’s Spirit

You'll be surprised by the stunning range of designs that are available when you buy a cremation urn online. Here are some basics about what is available:

• Traditional: Brass, marble, or rosewood urns with engraved and painted details.
• Modern: Sleek metals, minimalist ceramics, or glass urns.
• Biodegradable: Eco-friendly urns for water or natural burials.
• Scattering: Designed with the specific purpose of scattering over land or water.
• Customized: Add names, dates, quotes, or images. You'll also find photo urns, 3D engraved, and hand-crafted artisan designs.

Shop Trusted Retailers

Stick to well-reviewed sites that specialize in funeral and memorial products. We are proud to say that we are among those sites. When shopping, look for:

• Clear return/refund policies 
• Secure payment options 
• Detailed product descriptions and sizing charts 
• Responsive customer service 

Compare Prices Thoughtfully

Prices vary widely based on material, design, and size. When purchasing a cremation urn online, be sure to consider the shipping costs as well.

• Simple urns: $50–$150 
• Mid-range decorative: $150–$300 
• Custom/artisan: $300–$1,000+ 

Pro Tip: Don’t feel pressured to spend more than you're comfortable with. A meaningful urn isn’t about cost—it’s about connection.

Confirm Delivery Time

If you're on a deadline for a memorial service, double-check shipping options before you buy. Some retailers offer expedited delivery, while custom items may take several weeks to arrive, and engraving will add to the delivery time.

Final Thoughts on Buying a Cremation Urn Online

Buying an urn online is about more than logistics. It’s about crafting a moment of remembrance that truly reflects a life. By shopping thoughtfully and with heart, you can honor your loved one's life in a way that feels right for you and your family.

>>More on Buying a Cremation Urn