Glossary · Price Lists & Providers
Alternative Container
Every cremation needs a container. An alternative container is a simple, unfinished one, usually cardboard or fiberboard, used in place of a casket. Funeral homes must offer one for direct cremation.
Varies by provider
What it can be called, and cost
- 1Different names on different lists“Cremation container,” “basic cremation receptacle,” and “alternative cremation container” all mean the same thing.McDougal Funeral Home lists a Basic Cremation Receptacle at $250 (effective April 1, 2026). Memorial Mortuaries lists alternative containers from $495 (effective July 5, 2026).
- 2Included or extraSome direct cremation prices include it. Others price it separately.Jenkins-Soffe lists direct cremation at $1,625 with a family-provided container and $2,160 with its basic alternative container (effective November 1, 2022).
- 3Cardboard or rigidA sturdier container costs more.Utah Simple Cremations charges $995 with cardboard and $1,250 with a rigid container (checkout, August 17, 2026).
Ask“Is the container included in the direct cremation price?”
Sources
- Wayfinder survey of Salt Lake County funeral home price lists and phone quotes, collected August 11 to September 19, 2026.
- Federal Trade Commission, “Shopping for Funeral Services” (the Funeral Rule).
Last reviewed September 26, 2026. Prices change; check the provider’s current price list.