Can You Send Cremation Ashes in the Post? UK & International Rules
Yes. In the UK, Royal Mail allows human or animal ashes in the mail up to 50g per item, provided they are sealed in a sift-proof container, protected inside strong outer packaging, and show the sender’s name and return address. Parcelforce Worldwide, DPD and Evri prohibit human remains or ashes, so choosing the correct service matters.
For families sending only a small sample to create memorial jewellery, this can be much simpler than transporting a full urn. If you are considering ashes and memorial jewellery, always check the maker’s inclusion instructions before posting anything.
Can You Post Human Ashes With Royal Mail?
The rule is clear, but it is easy to find conflicting advice online. Current Post Office guidance says human or animal ashes can be sent by mail up to 50g per item, with strict packaging requirements.
The cremation ashes must be securely closed inside a sift-proof container, tightly packed in strong outer packaging and cushioned to prevent damage. Your name and return address must also be clearly visible on the outside.
For international post, do not assume that a UK acceptance rule means the destination country will automatically accept the parcel. Customs and local requirements can vary, so check the rules for the receiving country before sending ashes overseas.
How Should You Package Cremation Ashes Safely?
Ashes should never be treated like an ordinary loose item in a parcel. The safest approach is to use a securely closed inner container, stop it moving inside the package and add enough cushioning to protect it throughout transit.
If you are sending a small amount for ashes into jewellery or another keepsake, follow the jeweller’s instructions as well as Royal Mail packaging guidance. Memories Made sends UK customers an inclusion kit after ordering, helping make the process clear before the jewellery is created.
You can explore the full memorial jewellery collection before sending anything, so you know which keepsake your loved one’s ashes, hair or other inclusions will be used within.
Can You Send Ashes With Parcelforce, DPD or Evri?
No. This is one of the most important details missing from a lot of older advice. Parcelforce Worldwide lists human remains, including ashes, as prohibited, while current Post Office guidance for its DPD and Evri services also prohibits human or animal remains or ashes.
In other words, “sending through the Post Office” does not mean every courier company or postal service sold there accepts cremated remains. Whether you are considering First Class, Second Class, Special Delivery or another option, check the latest restrictions for the actual carrier before handing over the parcel.
What if You Need to Transport a Full Urn or Take Ashes on a Plane?
A 50g postal limit is not intended for moving a full set of cremated remains. If you need to transport an entire urn for scattering, repatriation or another memorial purpose, speak to a specialist ashes courier, funeral director or transport provider. In some international situations, Air Freight may be an alternative when ordinary post or courier services cannot be used.
Travelling with human ashes by air can also be possible. GOV.UK says you do not need a permit to bring ashes into the UK, but you should tell the airline in advance and take the cremation certificate with you. When leaving another country, you may also need the death certificate, certificate of cremation or other local documentation.
Airport security may require a non-metallic urn or container that can be X-Rayed. Current traveller discussions also show why many families prefer hand luggage to checked luggage: in a recent UK-to-Ireland discussion, one traveller warned about checked baggage, asking, “If the bag gets lost...” while recommending keeping the ashes and paperwork close by.
Do You Need to Declare Ashes Inside Memorial Jewellery?
Cremation jewellery is very different from carrying an urn. Only a small amount of cremated remains is incorporated into a finished keepsake, so you are not transporting anything close to a full container of human ashes.
Some cremation jewellery uses a sealed or hidden compartment, while other designs visibly incorporate ashes into resin. If you are worried about airport security or customs when travelling internationally with silver or gold memorial jewellery, check with the airline or relevant authority before your journey.
For examples of keepsakes made using cremation ashes, browse our ashes rings. You can also read our frequently asked questions for more information about inclusions, ordering and the creation process.
What Is the Safest Way to Send Ashes for Jewellery?
The safest approach is usually to send only the amount requested. Use the supplied inclusion container where available, package it securely and choose a postal service that accepts ashes. There is no reason to send a full urn when only a small sample is required for a keepsake.
Because cremation ashes cannot simply be replaced, traceability matters. Memories Made records the creation process and returns unused inclusions with the finished keepsake, while our customer reviews show how other families have experienced the process.
Before posting, check the latest Royal Mail restrictions one final time. If you are sending cremation ashes internationally, also check the destination country’s customs requirements so the journey is as secure, legal and straightforward as possible.