There are several important considerations for anyone involved in planning a funeral or burial setup, and caskets will typically be high on this list. One of the most common questions here: How much does a casket weigh? The answer actually depends on a few factors.

At McDougal Funeral Home, we're here to offer caring and compassionate funeral planning and assistance services around Salt Lake City, Taylorsville and West Valley City, including a full range of caskets, headstones, burial vaults and other required products or services. Here are some of the key factors that will play a role in how much a given casket weighs, plus what you should be thinking about in each area during any kind of funeral or burial planning.

Casket Material

As you may have expected, likely the single largest factor in determining the weight of a casket is the material it's constructed from. The three most common materials used for caskets are metal, wood and fiberglass; let's take a look at each.

• Metal Caskets: These are typically your heaviest options on the market, often weighing in at over 300 pounds. This is especially true for solid bronze or copper models. Even stainless steel caskets are usually well over 200 pounds.
• Wood Caskets: These come in several varieties and weights, but will generally be lighter than metal. Hardwood caskets may still reach 300 pounds, but some softwoods or composite wood products will be significantly lighter.
• Fiberglass Caskets: The lightest option on the market is usually a fiberglass casket, which can be under 100 pounds in many cases. However, these are often more expensive than other options and may not have the same level of durability or strength.

There are other options here, such as wicker or plywood caskets, but these are less common and will vary in weight based on the specific materials used.

Casket Size

Another key factor here is simply the size of the casket. Two general categories exist for casket size:

• Standard size: Generally 28.5 inches wide and just over 80 inches long, these caskets are meant to accommodate people up to around 6'6 (possibly with some knee bend). These are typically suitable for those weighing up to 300 pounds.
• Oversized caskets: For those who are taller or have a larger build, oversized caskets offer additional width and length. These can accommodate people over 6'6 as well as those weighing over 300 pounds.

Obviously, the larger the casket, the heavier it will be overall.

Inner Materials

While this won't usually be as large a factor as outer materials, it's still important to consider the weight of inner materials like linings and padding. These can add anywhere from 10 to 30 pounds depending on the specific casket.

Memorial Websites

Creating memorial websites has become a popular way to celebrate and remember loved ones. These websites serve as digital spaces where family and friends can share memories, photos, and messages of condolence. They provide a lasting tribute that can be visited and updated over time.

Accessories

Any additional accessories or decorative features may also add weight to a casket. This could include handles, decorative corners or even personalized engravings. It's important to factor in these elements when considering the weight of a casket.

Contents

Finally, the weight of the contents inside a casket can also play a role in its overall weight. This could include personal belongings, flowers or other items that may be placed inside during a funeral service.

When considering how much a casket weighs and what options might fit your needs best, don't hesitate to consult with our experienced team at McDougal Funeral Home. We'll work with you to find an option that meets your budget and needs while also providing a dignified final resting place for your loved one. Contact us today to learn more.