How Long Do You Wait for a Human Cremation?

Human cremation usually takes between three and four hours to complete, depending on the few factors explained below. The cremated remains are then cooled, processed, and separated from any metals—potentially adding an additional one to two hours.

Factors Impacting the Duration of Human Cremation

There are many factors that can have an impact on how long the cremation process will take:

• Height and weight We are all aware that each person is unique and different from one another. The taller or heavier a person is, the longer the cremation will take and the larger urn size you'll need.
• Type of cremation container Cremation containers are combustible and help the cremation process get started. Each crematory uses a different cremation container, and, depending on the type or material, it can impact how quickly the cremation gets going.
• Temperature of the cremation chamber Temperatures within cremation chambers range from 1,400 - 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on the temperature used by that crematory, it can impact the speed of the cremation.
• Time of day Yes, even the time of day that the cremation takes place can have an impact! If your loved one is due to be cremated in the morning, the cremation chamber may not be warmed up yet, and this can result in the process taking a little longer than if the chamber was still warm from previous cremations.

How Long After Cremation Will You Receive Ashes?

Once the cremation process is complete, the cremated ashes are returned to the family a day or two later. In some cases, the ashes can be collected on the same day as the cremation if there is an urgent need for them, such as traveling overseas. The ashes will be given in a plastic or cardboard container or in an urn if chosen by the family prior to the cremation.