Here are some of the most popular types of coffins and caskets for every price range: Burial shroud Willow – Willow coffins are great for creating a natural look that doesn't compromise on quality. Willow is known for being strong and beautiful. It's sustainably grown, making willow coffins an eco-friendly choice. They are also considered good value for money and are easy to personalise. There's no legal obligation to be buried or cremated in a coffin. If you wish, you could get buried in a shroud – a long piece of cloth that's wrapped around the body. A shroud can be made from materials including linen, silk, hemp, flax, and cotton. Did you find this information useful? Take a look at our handy guide on how to personalise a funeral and simple ways to turn a funeral into a celebration of life. Or use our My Perfect Send-Off tool for a simple, free way to record your funeral wishes. There are all kinds of coffins and caskets available. Popular choices include metal caskets, solid wood coffins, and bamboo coffins.

Most people buying a coffin are doing so for the first time. And, even if you have bought one before, all the different types and options can be overwhelming. Funeral directors generally mark-up the price of coffins. If you're looking to cut costs, you could buy your own and get it delivered to a funeral director. What are the types of coffins and caskets? Metal caskets – These caskets are made from solid metal and promise extreme quality and strength. They are often finished in a high gloss and feature elaborate detailing. This makes them a good choice for a luxurious ceremony. There are many types of coffin out there. It's worth weighing up the pros and cons of each to decide which one is best for you.Buying your coffin from a funeral director can be more expensive. Shopping for one independently could save you a quite a bit of money. How to carry a coffin Bamboo – Bamboo coffins are a 100% natural, eco-friendly option. They're ideal for a green funeral or a natural burial. Bamboo is extremely hard-wearing. In fact, it's used to build houses in some parts of Asia. So, you can rely on a bamboo coffin for strength and quality. The bamboo is hand-woven around a durable natural frame and is easily personalised. You could, for example, decorate the coffin with leaves or flowers for a botanical look. The funeral director will help you raise the coffin onto your shoulder when the service begins. When you walk, keep the coffin close and follow the director's movements. Caskets are rectangular, whereas coffins are wide at the top and narrower towards the feet. What to consider when choosing coffins

Pandanus coffins – Another environmentally-friendly option is a pandanus coffin. They are made by hand by weaving rattan with pandanus leaves. This gives them a natural look and means they decompose easily. For a funeral with a difference, why not break the mould with a custom-made picture coffin or a themed design? The price ranges given in this article are intended as a general guide based upon available online pricing from leading UK coffin suppliers. These prices were reviewed in May 2023.Woollen – If you'd like something more unconventional, woollen coffins are becoming a popular choice. Woollen coffins are made from cardboard, then upholstered with 100% wool. This creates a warm, cosy look which might seem more comforting than a traditional coffin, and is fully biodegradable. Veneered wood – Veneered wood coffins offer a quality look without the steep price tag. They are made with veneer panels and a real wood top. This offers a feeling of luxury and makes them a popular choice for a traditional funeral. You can customise a picture coffin to reflect your personality – making them a thoughtful way to celebrate someone's life. Comparing coffins The price of a coffin depends on the type of coffin, the material it's made of, and the workmanship needed to build it. This article outlines some of the main types of coffins, and how much you might expect them to cost according to online retailers. Prices will vary if purchasing a coffin through a funeral director. How much is a coffin?