The largest cost variable in funeral prices is usually the merchandise selected. In most cases
(but not always) this variable will be determined by the price of the casket selected.
While no one likes to think about buying one, caskets in reality are like any other retail product. Unlike the "coffins" of old, caskets now come in all colors imaginable and are made from countless different woods and metals. Like other retail products, a casket can be as expensive or inexpensive as one may choose.
Purchasing a casket today can be as simple as sitting at your kitchen table with the "click of a mouse" on your home computer. Many chain retail stores are now offering caskets as well. As this trend continues to grow, it will certainly continue to affect casket prices as more third party retailers begin to sell caskets and other funeral merchandise.
Most funeral facilities have long recognized the impact of increased competition and funeral merchandise sales. Over the past few years funeral homes and other funeral providers have become very competitive in casket pricing with these third party casket vendors. For this reason, I suggest you talk with your funeral facility of choice before making a casket purchase elsewhere. You could be surprised and you lose nothing by weighing all of your options before you decide.
As with other major retail product purchases, careful consideration should be given before selecting and purchasing a casket. These considerations should offer an excellent opportunity for substantial savings in purchasing a casket and in the total funeral costs.
