Navigating the New USPS Regulations for Mailing Cremated Remains

Beginning March 1, 2025, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is updating its regulations for shipping cremated remains—which includes human and animal ashes, keepsakes, and jewelry containing ashes. As the only carrier authorized to ship cremated remains domestically, USPS has introduced new rules and requirements aimed at ensuring safer, more secure handling. Below, we outline the key changes and what they mean for those who need to mail cremated remains. We also want to clarify that at Cherished Emblems, we do not accept or ship cremated remains on behalf of our customers; we specialize in crafting and providing beautiful unique cremation jewelry for your loved ones’ memories.

1. USPS’s New “Cremated Remains Packaging Kits”

What Has Changed:
Previously, it was permissible to ship cremated remains in any sturdy box as long as it was clearly marked with Label 139 (“Cremated Remains”). Under the new rules, mailers must now use the official USPS Cremated Remains Packaging Kits. These free kits can be ordered from the Postal Store on USPS.com and must be used whenever you mail human or animal ashes, keepsakes, or jewelry that contains cremated remains.

Why the Change:

1. Improved Visibility: The standardized packaging and labeling make it easier for postal workers to identify and properly handle packages containing cremated remains, leading to more careful processing.
2. Enhanced Handling Methods: By making all cremated remains shipments uniform, USPS can implement consistent procedures to help keep these sensitive contents safe.

Important Note About Obtaining Kits:

• You cannot pick up the Cremated Remains Kits at your local post office. They must be ordered online or by phone through USPS.
• If you regularly ship cremated remains (for instance, if you are a funeral home or another type of professional service), you might want to keep a small supply of these kits on hand to avoid delays.

2. Updated Terminology for Cremated Remains

What’s New in the Wording:
USPS has shifted from saying “human or animal ashes” to “Human or animal cremated remains in any state (e.g., ashes, keepsakes, and jewelry).”

• This clarifies that any physical form of cremated remains—whether loose ashes or ashes incorporated into jewelry or keepsakes—must follow the updated shipping procedures.

Who This Affects:

• Funeral homes, crematories, memorial keepsake designers, and anyone who might ship cremated remains, including family members sending keepsakes between loved ones.
• If you or your business routinely mails cremation jewelry that already contains ashes, be sure to review and update your shipping policies to align with USPS’s new rules.

3. Best Practices for Packing and Shipping Cremated Remains

Although USPS’s new packaging kits will simplify the process, here are some additional guidelines to ensure secure shipping:

1. Double-Seal the Ashes

   • Place the ashes in a sealed plastic bag or container (provided by the crematory or funeral home).
   • Put this sealed container inside another sturdy plastic bag or a secondary container to guard against leakage.

2. Use Proper Cushioning

   • Fill the shipping box with sufficient cushioning material (e.g., bubble wrap, packing peanuts) to prevent movement or damage during transit.
   • Make sure the container with the ashes is held securely in place.

3. Correct Labeling

   • Ensure you apply the proper USPS labels (like Label 139) on all sides of the box if it’s not already pre-printed on the Cremated Remains Kit.
   • Clearly print both the sender and recipient addresses.

4. Request a Tracking Number

   • Always ship cremated remains via a trackable service such as Priority Mail Express, which is required by USPS for cremated remains.
   • Keep your tracking information safe in case you need to follow up on the shipment.

By following these steps, you’ll help ensure that your package arrives safely, securely, and in accordance with USPS guidelines.

4. Cherished Emblems’ Policy on Handling Cremated Remains

We understand the need for specialized memorials, but we want to emphasize that we do not accept or hold cremated remains. Our commitment is to provide high-quality, handcrafted jewelry designed to hold a small portion of ashes or another memorial piece (such as a lock of hair).

• We do not fill or seal the jewelry with cremated remains on behalf of our customers. Instead, we provide the pieces along with instructions for how you or your chosen professional can place ashes inside.

• If you need to ship your completed cremation jewelry (containing ashes) to a loved one, please familiarize yourself with the new USPS requirements or consult a professional for guidance.

5. Types of Cremation Jewelry Cherished Emblems Offers

We take pride in offering a diverse range of keepsakes that can honor your loved one’s memory in a beautifully discreet manner:

1. Cremation Pendants and Lockets

   • These classic pieces often include a small compartment accessible via a secure screw top or back panel.
   • Choose from a variety of shapes and designs—hearts, crosses, teardrops, or custom shapes.

2. Cremation Rings

   • A subtle and elegant way to carry a part of your loved one wherever you go.

3. Bracelets and Bangles

   • For those who prefer wrist jewelry, we offer styles that range from delicate chains to statement cuffs.
   • Like the pendants, bracelets often include a small hidden chamber for the ashes.

4. Keychains and Other Keepsakes

   • If you’re looking for a way to keep memories close in a non-jewelry form, keychains and keepsake urns can be ideal.
   • These items are designed to hold a minimal amount of remains securely.

Whether you prefer something understated or a design that stands out, our goal is to provide a memorial piece that resonates with you and lasts a lifetime.

6. Final Thoughts and Additional Resources

These new USPS regulations are intended to safeguard and streamline the process of shipping cremated remains, ensuring that these deeply sentimental items are handled with respect and care. If you or your business plans to ship cremated remains regularly, make sure you are fully aware of the updated guidelines and have the required USPS Cremated Remains Kits on hand.

For Further Reading:

• You can review the Cremated Remains Packaging Requirements Final Rule on the USPS website.
• If you have any questions about ordering Cremated Remains Kits or shipping cremated remains, contact your local USPS office or visit USPS.com.

How Cherished Emblems Can Help

At Cherished Emblems, our passion lies in creating keepsake jewelry that offers comfort and a beautiful way to remember loved ones. While we can provide guidance on how to place ashes in our jewelry, we do not handle any cremated remains or ship them on your behalf. We encourage you to follow USPS’s latest regulations or consult with a trusted funeral service professional to ensure the process is completed respectfully and in compliance with the law.

If you have any questions about our cremation jewelry selection, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you choose the perfect piece to keep your loved one’s memory close to your heart.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check with the United States Postal Service for the most up-to-date rules and regulations on shipping cremated remains.