When a loved one has requested burial, but immediate burial isn’t possible, families may feel overwhelmed about what to do next. Delays can happen for various reasons, such as legal requirements, financial constraints, weather conditions, or waiting for family members to arrive. Fortunately, there are several options available to respectfully care for your loved one until burial can take place.
Temporary Preservation Methods
If burial must be postponed, the body needs to be properly preserved. Each method has different costs and time limitations. Here are the most common preservation techniques:
Refrigeration
Refrigeration is a common and cost-effective way to temporarily store a body. Many funeral homes and medical facilities have refrigeration units for short-term preservation.
- Duration: 2–3 weeks (varies by condition and facility)
- Cost: $50–$150 per day, or a flat fee of $350–$1,000 for extended storage
- Notes: This is often the most affordable and environmentally friendly option for short-term delays.
Embalming
Embalming is a preservation technique that slows decomposition by using chemical treatments. It is commonly used when burial is delayed or when a public viewing is planned.
- Duration: 1–2 weeks without additional treatments, but can be extended with rehydration treatments
- Cost: $500–$1,500 depending on the provider and type of embalming
- Notes: Some funeral homes charge extra for long-term preservation or touch-ups if burial is significantly delayed.
Dry Ice or Tech-Free Preservation
For those who prefer a natural approach or want to keep the body at home for a brief period, dry ice can help slow decomposition.
- Duration: 24–72 hours before needing replenishment
- Cost: $50–$200 for dry ice replenishment, depending on availability
- Notes: This method requires frequent monitoring and replacement of dry ice to maintain preservation.
Delayed Burial Arrangements
When a burial must be postponed, families may need to arrange for temporary body storage. The following options provide short- or long-term solutions:
Temporary Storage at a Funeral Home
Many funeral homes offer storage services while families finalize burial arrangements.
- Duration: Varies, but most funeral homes offer storage for 1–4 weeks
- Cost: $100–$300 per week, or included in embalming or refrigeration fees
- Notes: Storage costs vary by location and the level of services provided.
Holding the Body in a Mortuary or Hospital Facility
In some cases, a hospital morgue or county mortuary may provide short-term storage.
- Duration: Usually up to 2 weeks, but can be longer in government-run facilities
- Cost: $0–$500, depending on whether it is a public or private facility
- Notes: Availability depends on the location and the circumstances of death.
Seasonal Burial Delays (Cold Climates)
In colder climates, burial may not be possible during winter due to frozen ground. Cemeteries often provide storage until burial can take place.
- Duration: Several months, typically from late fall to spring in northern regions
- Cost: $0–$1,000 for cemetery storage until burial
- Notes: Some cemeteries provide this service at no extra charge, while others charge storage fees.
Alternative Interim Options
If a traditional burial cannot happen soon, families may consider alternative interim options before final burial.
Cremation with Later Burial
Some families choose cremation as an interim step, allowing them to later bury the ashes in a cemetery or family plot.
- Duration: Indefinite (ashes do not degrade)
- Cost: $800–$2,500 for cremation, plus any burial costs
- Notes: This option provides flexibility while still respecting the deceased’s wish for burial.
Temporary Entombment in a Mausoleum
A mausoleum provides a respectful, above-ground storage option until burial can take place.
- Duration: Varies, can be weeks or even years
- Cost: $500–$5,000, depending on the location and duration
- Notes: Some cemeteries allow temporary entombment if the final burial site isn’t ready or family members need time to plan the ceremony.
Shipping the Body to Another Location
If the burial site is in another city or country, transporting the body may be necessary.
- Duration: Immediate transport required
- Cost: $1,500–$5,000 for domestic transport; $5,000–$15,000 for international transport
- Notes: A funeral home that specializes in body transportation can ensure proper handling and preservation.
Financial Considerations for Delayed Burial
Delays in burial can increase costs, as funeral homes may charge for extended storage, embalming, or transportation. Families struggling with costs may explore the following options:
- Government or charity assistance – Some state, provincial, or local programs (U.S resource). can help with burial costs.
- Prepaid burial plans – If the deceased had a prepaid burial plan, it may cover storage fees.
- Crowdfunding or community support – Online fundraisers can help with unexpected burial expenses. Learn more.
