Repatriation of the Deceased: Organization and Support

What Is Repatriation of the Deceased

The process of returning the body of a deceased person to their homeland for burial is an important and responsible procedure. Repatriation of the deceased involves a set of measures ensuring the transportation of the body in compliance with all sanitary, ethical, and legal norms. The main objective is the safe delivery of "Cargo 200" to the selected destination, without posing any risk to others and in accordance with international standards.

Legal Basis and Standards

International Agreements

The repatriation of a body is carried out strictly within the framework of international agreements signed by participating countries. These documents regulate the procedure for processing documentation, requirements for airtight containers, and standards for transporting the deceased. It is important to note that the transport of a deceased person poses no health risk when established sanitary norms are followed and the coffin or urn is properly sealed.

European and National Regulations

According to European directives, transportation of deceased bodies must be carried out only in specialized vehicles. Such hearse vehicles meet the requirements for airtightness, sanitary safety, and technical equipment. In addition, each case requires detailed documentation, including a death certificate and sanitary-epidemiological (SES) certificates.

Transportation Options

Air Transport

Transporting the body by plane is considered the fastest and most practical method. However, this procedure requires advance preparation of an airtight sealed coffin with a zinc liner, an embalming certificate, and an export permit issued by the relevant consulate. This method also requires an escort and timely delivery of the body to the airport cargo terminal, necessitating well-coordinated work from the entire service team.

Rail Transport

Transportation of the deceased by train is permitted when a special cargo carriage is available and all required documents are in order. In the case of rail transport, a certificate confirming no foreign items inside the coffin and a document certifying airtight sealing are mandatory. This method is often chosen for domestic transportation over medium distances.

Road Transport

Hearse vehicles offer the most versatile solution, especially for distances up to 2,000 km. They do not require strict adherence to schedules and can be used to transport both bodies and urns with ashes. This method does not require complex air or rail waybills, but sanitary clearance and a complete funeral kit are mandatory.

Sea and River Transport

For specific routes without direct land connections, ships are used. Sea and river transport are rarely employed but in some cases become the only viable option. In such cases, the standard set of documents is supplemented by transport certificates obtained at the departure port, as well as additional route approvals with consular authorities.

Specifics of the Repatriation Procedure

Each transportation requires strict compliance with regulations. The container must contain an airtight sealed coffin or urn that has undergone sanitary treatment. The packaging must be labeled and accompanied by an inventory of transported items. In international repatriation, all documents must be translated and apostilled. The procedure includes body preparation, choice of transportation method, documentation, and coordination with the consulate of the destination country.

Required Documents

The following documents are required to arrange repatriation:

• Death certificate
• Sanitary-epidemiological (SES) certificate
• Certificate of airtight sealing
• Certificate confirming absence of foreign objects
• Consular permit
• Transport waybill

All these documents must be notarized, translated, and apostilled. Their absence may delay or prevent transportation. Additionally, in the case of air transport, accurate information about the weight and dimensions of the coffin is essential, as it affects cost calculation and logistical planning.

Funeral Accessories and Kits

The company offers funeral accessory kits including a lacquered coffin, silk or satin lining, pillow, blanket, and slippers. Additional items such as a wreath, nameplate, and cross can also be included. Each kit is selected based on the family's preferences and complies with sanitary and transportation standards.

Reception and Burial Arrangement

Upon arrival of the "Cargo 200" in the homeland, a reception is organized: paperwork is processed, transportation is provided, and the body is transferred to a morgue or cemetery. A power of attorney and cargo documents are required to ensure smooth access and execution of all procedures. Escort is provided around the clock, including the issuance of necessary acts and coordination with funeral services.

Professional Approach

The repatriation process requires high precision, attention to detail, and expertise. Only qualified specialists can arrange the transportation of the deceased with full consideration of all legal and logistical nuances. We handle documentation, transport booking, reception at the destination, and transfer to the morgue. Work is performed according to an agreed algorithm, with strict adherence to timelines and procedures.

Conclusion

Repatriation of the deceased is a complex, responsible, and multifaceted process. Its successful execution is only possible through the coordinated efforts of professionals. Arranging the transportation of a body or ashes requires a complete set of documents, selection of transport, coordination with the morgue, and consular approvals. By entrusting the process to an experienced service, you ensure a respectful return of your loved one to their homeland and dignified handling of all necessary procedures.