Cremation Timeline: A Guide by Quantock Funeral Directors

Navigating the journey from the passing of a loved one to their final farewell can be a delicate and time-sensitive process. At Quantock Funeral Directors, we understand the importance of providing clarity and support during this challenging time. In this guide, we outline the typical timeline involved in cremations, shedding light on the key steps and considerations.

Initial Contact and Transfer

Upon the first call to Quantock Funeral Directors, our dedicated team springs into action, aiming to bring the deceased into our care promptly, typically within an hour. However, if the deceased is resting at a hospital, the process may take a few days as we await the necessary paperwork from the medical professionals before they will allow the person to be released.

Await Paperwork and Documentation

One of the crucial aspects of the timeline revolves around paperwork and documentation. If the deceased passed away at home or in a nursing home, we must wait for the necessary paperwork from the doctors, which can take approximately 7-10 days. Additionally, the availability of the death certificate depends on when the family registers the death, a process that may take 10-14 days depending on the registrar's workload.

Booking the Funeral and Cremation

With the essential paperwork in hand, we proceed to book the funeral and cremation. Availability at the crematorium becomes a factor, aligning with the family's wishes and preferences. While dates for the following week are often accessible, flexibility is key to securing a preferred time or day. In some cases, families may need to wait for the week after or even longer for a specific schedule.

The Average Timeline

Overall, the journey from the time of death to the day of the cremation typically spans around 20 days. However, this timeframe can vary depending on various factors such as paperwork processing, crematorium availability, and family preferences. While expedited arrangements are possible under favourable conditions, longer durations may occur during peak periods or due to administrative processes.



At Quantock Funeral Directors, we prioritise providing compassionate support and guidance at every step of the cremation process. Our experienced team is committed to easing the burden on families and ensuring a respectful and dignified farewell for their loved ones.

For more information or assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to help during this challenging time.