What Is The Right Time To Buy A Casket?

The Right Time To Buy A Casket

Typically, the right time to buy a casket is immediately following the death of a loved one. This is particularly true in case of a loss that was unexpected. However, it is sometimes possible — and perhaps even advisable — to buy a casket before a loved one passes on. For instance, in case a close member in your family or a friend who relies on you is battling a terminal illness or is undergoing end-of-life care, it may be a good idea to buy a casket online or in-store before they pass on. This way, they will have time to let you know about their preferences or choices, if any. 

Apart from the above scenarios, buying a casket in advance is also becoming increasingly common for personal use. Many people are choosing to pre-purchase a casket before they pass on. This is very similar to how you may prepare a will and take care of estate planning when you are healthy and of sound mind. You can also choose to buy a casket online if you are pre-planning and making arrangements for your own funeral. 

When To Buy A Casket If Your Loved One Has Already Passed On?

If the person for whom you are planning a funeral has already passed on, you will have to buy a casket at short notice. The ceremony will typically be held within a week or two from the date of their demise. So, this gives you around 10 days at most to choose a casket and make the purchase. It is best not to put off this important task until later, because a last-minute purchase may lead to various unexpected complications. Also, the sooner you choose a casket, the better you can plan the ceremony. 

If you are buying a casket for a loved one after their demise, here are some tips that can help you make a suitable purchase. 

The first thing you need to do is draw up a budget for the ceremony. Allocate a certain percentage of the budget for various aspects of the funeral. This will give you a better idea of the price range within which you can shop for caskets.  

It is not necessary to make the purchase from a funeral home. You can choose to buy a casket online too. Legally, funeral homes cannot insist on having you purchase a casket from them, and they cannot levy additional charges for handling a casket you purchased elsewhere. 

If you decide to buy a casket online, there are several options to choose from. You have wooden caskets, metal caskets and eco caskets too. At Titan Casket, we even offer specialty caskets and urns. Check out the different models available and decide on what your loved one may have preferred. 

When To Buy A Casket In Case Of An Advance Purchase? 

Buying a casket in advance is an entirely personal choice. If you are pre-purchasing a casket for yourself or for someone you love, there is no specific timeline within which you absolutely need to make the purchase. The only exception to this may be if your loved one is suffering from a terminal illness. In that case, you will have to purchase the casket well in advance, while they are still around and able to make the purchase decisions or choices. This is perfectly legal in all the 50 US states, and you need not worry about any issues on that front. 

If you are making an advance purchase, the following tips can make it easier to choose a suitable casket for yourself or your loved one.

Identify your needs and preferences. Do you want a lightweight casket or a traditional wooden model? Do you prefer biodegradable materials? Figure out these particulars before buying a casket in advance. 

Let your family or friends know about the purchase. This way, in case something unexpected happens, they know that you already have a casket that’s ready and paid for. They may have trouble understanding that you’ve bought a casket so early, but it is essential to have this talk. 

If you are unable to find a casket you like, take a break and come back to this process a month or two later. It’s best not to rush the process, because you will only end up spending on a casket you’re not happy with. 

Cremation Vs Burial When To Buy A Casket?

Generally, you need to buy a casket when you are planning a burial ceremony for someone who has passed away. Burial caskets are used for this purpose, and they are made from heavy materials like wood or metal. However, you may also choose to buy a casket when you are hosting a cremation ceremony for your loved one. For this purpose, there are special cremation caskets that are lighter than burial caskets. So, the bottom line is that you can opt to buy a casket online no matter what kind of service is being held.