Why is international shipping challenging?

1. Customs & Regulations
Proper documentation and meeting each country's requirements is essential for your clients to reach their destination with their loved one's remains or cremains on their first trip. Here are just a few examples of typical international shipping challenges

• Documentation. Every country requires all appropriate documentation be in order to their degree of satisfaction. Some countries require more documentation than others do. For example, the Chinese consulate must give a gate of entry approval. Australia requires a quarantine letter. A state apostile is a special document required by many countries.
• Time. We are in a time-sensitive business. Red-tape can quickly tie-up your progress. Different countries have different time elements for approval. Consulate hours and days of operation greatly vary. Every mishap can cost you valuable time.
• Language. Your documents may need to be translated to the language of the country of destination.
• Logistics. Airlines can't ship without all and proper documentation. Each country's requirements vary. For example, airlines can't ship remains/cremains to France without the approval from the local French magistrate or cemetery where the deceased is to be sent.
• Transportation. When shipments require in-country flights abroad, such as in Europe or the Far East, many smaller passenger planes can't accommodate the size of typical American containers. All airlines have restrictions on how remains are shipped.

2. Differences in Culture & Religion
Many countries have cultural and religious traditions that differ from the US. If these aren't followed appropriately, it will result in additional and unnecessary costs to you and your client.

• Viewing. In France or Sweden local health officers may not allow the caskets to be opened during services. Therefore, the coffins must have a glass top.
• Caskets. Requirements vary greatly. Whether it is size, outer box or casket material, Bergen Funeral Service knows the answer.

3. Other Challenges
The challenges involved in international shipment often vary. The following are additional examples.

• Time Change. Depending upon where the remains are to be shipped, the time zones may vary. Any communication with the country of destination is made that much more complex when 9am your time is 9:00pm their time, they are closed and have no answering service nor email.
• Travel. Some countries have very different travel conditions, ranging from rough mountainous terrain to arid desert conditions. These factors have to be taken into consideration when shipping, including knowing local travel resources.
• Climates. Based upon the climate, timeliness getting to and from the right jetport can prove extremely important.

Our advice? Don't learn the hard way! Do it right the first time. Use a service that specializes in international shipments.