Casket vs. Coffin: Twelve Things to Know About These Important Memorial Products

By: Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services
Sunday, March 13, 2022

Funeral planning involves many details, including the choice of a coffin or a casket. Although coffins and caskets may look the same to the untrained eye, they are vastly different.

Please read on to learn about the evolution of caskets in the U.S. and the major distinctions between these two types of burial containers.

The History of Caskets

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the funerary trade rose quickly in popularity. The introduction of the casket, a rectangular box for viewing and burial, was created in order to ease the mourning process. The display of the departed within the casket is much like a bed and embalming practices give the appearance of sleep. Today, caskets are far more popular and widely available than coffins.

Six Key Characteristics of Caskets

  • Caskets are rectangular and the lid is usually dome-shaped and split into two sections set on hinges. This allows for the top section to be opened to reveal the head and upper torso of the departed during the visitation and memorial service or funeral.
  • Two long rails extend along the sides to assist with lifting and transportation by pallbearers.
  • The interior is usually lined with elegant, plush cloth.
  • Caskets come in an endless variety of sizes, designs, colors, and materials to suit the personality of the departed and the available budget.
  • Caskets tend to be made from higher quality materials and have more intricate, expensive details.
  • They can be purchased through funeral homes as well as major retailers like Walmart and Costco.

Six Key Characteristics of Coffins

  • Coffins may initially appear rectangular, but they extend out where the shoulders of the departed rest, creating an elongated hexagonal shape.
  • The top and bottom where the feet and head lay are tapered, with the top edge wider than the bottom one. This design is called "anthropoid”, which means it is formed in the shape of a human body.
  • Coffins have a flat lid that can be lifted off completely for viewings.
  • Coffins have handles on the sides instead of rails.
  • They are usually crafted from MDF (medium-density fiberboard), although they may be made from iron, fiberglass, or steel.
  • Coffins are not generally offered by funeral homes, but they can be purchased online or hand-crafted. It is important to consult with the cemetery in advance to ensure they will be able to accommodate a coffin burial.

If you have questions about caskets or coffins, or if you wish to make funeral arrangements for a loved one, please reach out to us anytime. It is always our pleasure to serve you.

About Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services: As a leading African American-owned and operated funeral and cremation organization, Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services has provided a ministry of care to thousands of grieving families. We promise to provide our highest level of distinguished service and respect to families who entrust us to honor their loved ones. With two convenient locations serving North and West Philadelphia, it is always our pleasure to be of service. For more information about our funeral, cremation, memorial, and repast services, please visit batchelorbrothers.com.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

Helpful Coping Strategies for Returning to Work After a Loved One Passes

When returning to work after a loved one's passing, expect to encounter a complex blend of emotions. Grief is a deeply personal journey, and it's important to remember that there is no right or wr...

Selecting the Day and Time of the Funeral: Eight Tips You Need to Know

Honoring the memory of a departed loved one begins with the careful selection of the day and time of the funeral. When you’re dealing with crushing grief, planning a funeral or memorial service ca...

Little-Known Signs of Dehydration: Eight Surprising Clues You Need More Water

Beyond the familiar signs of dehydration, there's a world of lesser-known indicators. As we grow older, our bodies become more vulnerable to certain challenges, especially during hot weather. One ...

What are the Benefits of Planning Your Own Funeral?

Planning your funeral helps alleviate the emotional burden on surviving loved ones during a challenging time. Contemplating your farewell might seem like a distant and sobering thought. However, a...

Eight Guidelines that Will Help You Make the Best Funeral Decisions for Your Departed Loved One

The path to healing begins with sound funeral decisions, which allow you to express your love and respect while commemorating the unique journey of your departed loved one. Honoring the legacy of ...

The Signs of Dementia Go Beyond Memory Loss. These Six Symptoms Might Surprise You.

Although it affects millions of people worldwide, the signs of dementia are often undetected or misunderstood. While most people associate dementia with memory loss, there are a number of lesser-k...

What to Bring to a Funeral or Celebration of Life: Six Tips from the Experts

Have you ever wondered what items are appropriate to bring to a funeral or celebration of life? When you attend a funeral, memorial service, or celebration of life, it provides an opportunity to e...

Seven Essential Funeral Tips for Parents to Ease Your Child's Journey Through Loss

Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional experience for adults and children alike. These funeral tips for parents can ease the grief journey. At Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services, we understand ...

Understanding Veteran Funeral Services and Benefits: Six Facts You Should Know

If you are seeking to gain an understanding of veteran funeral services and the benefits available, we’re here to help. Members of the armed forces make great sacrifices to protect the freedoms we...

Food Poisoning Spikes in the Summer. Avoid These Eight Surprising Culprits.

Bacteria multiply more quickly when it’s warmer, causing the incidence of food poisoning to rise dramatically. Soaring temperatures and perishable food aren’t a good combination but you’ll find pl...