Frequently Asked Questions

Eco-Friendly Caskets

What is the purpose of the privacy shield?

Since the willow and seagrass caskets are essentially woven baskets, the fabric privacy shield prevents visual access to the interior of the casket.

Do the bamboo caskets come with a privacy shield?

No. The weave of this casket is such that visual access to the casket is limited by the construction of the casket.

Do the caskets seal?

The caskets do not seal but will securely contain the body of the deceased. The lining of each casket features a leak-resistant interior lining that will temporarily contain any minor leakage of fluids. The bamboo casket includes a biodegradable eco-friendly plastic lining that will temporarily contain any minor leakage of fluids. This lining will break down in the ground when the casket is buried.

How long will it take the caskets to biodegrade in the earth?

This depends on the type of soil and the depth at which the casket is buried. Generally if the casket is buried in a relatively shallow grave with healthy (not too dry or too moist) earth it will break down in 12 to 24 months.

How strong are the caskets?

These caskets are extremely durable. They are weight tested to 350 lbs and feature strawboard bases and rope handles that support the entire weight of the body and casket. Remember that many furniture items are produced from wicker (willow), and hot air balloon baskets are also made from willow. Bamboo is also extremely tough and durable: in Asia it’s used in scaffolding for the construction of large multi-story buildings.

Do the caskets have any metal or plastic components?

No.

Biodegradable Urns

How long will water burial urns take to sink?

In tests it has been found that water biodegradable urns will sink between three and five minutes after being placed in the water. The time it takes for the urn to sink may vary significantly depending in local weather and water conditions and the weight of the cremated remains.

How long will the urn take to break down in water?

Within 24 hours of being placed in the water, the Journey Earthurns and Shell Deep Water Bio Urns will not be recognizable. Depending on local water conditions it can take between 30 and 90 days to completely degrade. Please note that these are organic products that biodegrade naturally over time.

How long will the urn take to break down when buried in the ground?

It can take several months depending on local conditions. Generally the more moisture in the soil, the quicker the urn will biodegrade.

Can I travel with the urn?

Yes. All of Passages urns are very durable and travel well. Since the tragic events of September 11th, 2001, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has implemented procedures that require urns that are to be carried into the cabin of a commercial aircraft to be x-rayed by security screeners. If security screeners are unable to view the contents of the urn during the x-ray process, the urn must be checked as baggage. To avoid uncomfortable situations, all of Passages International’s urns are constructed to clearly allow security screeners to view the contents of the urn. That said, the TSA can change its rules and regulations at any time.

What is included with each Earthurn?

Included with each urn is a biodegradable plastic bag and tie. These bags are NOT packed inside the urn, rather they can be located in the box that the urns are shipped in. (Occationally the bags will fall to the bottom of the box during shipping) The bags are EPA approved and will dissolve in 60 seconds when placed in warm or cold water.

Will the urn biodegrade before I have time to bury or scatter?

No. Passages biodegradable urns are engineered to be durable and will not begin to biodegrade until they are placed in “the elements” (earth or water). This allows families to wait until they are ready to scatter or bury the cremated remains.

How to close The Shell urn?

To close the urn, squeeze a bead of biodegradable glue (comes with the urn) around the edge of the opening and place the lid in the opening. Apply light pressure for two to three minutes or until the glue is dry. Wipe away any excess glue with a clean, damp cloth.

How to place the Memento or Shell urn onto water?

For water burial, place the urn onto the water surface with the top facing up (top has fewer holes). The Urns are designed and engineered to briefly float and gracefully sink.

Blooming Remembrances and Mini Cards

Can the bookmarks and mini cards be printed in color?

Upon special request we are able to print the bookmarks and mini cards in color. Please note that the pricing on all our pricesheets is for black and white prints only.

Can both sides of the bookmarks and mini cards be personalized?

Only the front of the cards and bookmarks can be personalized.

How do we know the Remembrances will bloom?

Passages purchases high-quality seeds that are routinely tested. In these tests, germination rates of over 80% have been recorded. However, these products are natural and there are no guarantees that flowers will bloom from individual ornaments. There are many factors that determine whether a seed germinates. An ornament may not grow because it is not watered consistently or effectively, is not exposed to enough light, or is not placed in a temperate environment.

Shipping/Delivery

How will my order be shipped?

Unless otherwise directed, Passages International Inc. will ship all orders via UPS Ground. Most UPS Ground shipments will be received at their final destination within 5-7 business days. Expedited shipping is available, up to and including Overnight Service.

How much is shipping?

Most urn orders that are shipped via UPS Ground will cost between $12-15 per package. Overnight shipping can cost in excess of $100 depending on the product and where it is being shipped to. Standard delivery (4-5 business days) is included on all adult caskets (not including discounted caskets). Expedited casket delivery is available for an additional fee ($125 for two day to many locations).

What is the Return Policy?

Passages staff inspect every item prior to it leaving our facility. It is for this reason that Passages stands behind it’s products 100%. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase we will gladly take the product back and credit your account up to the full purchase price of the item (assuming that we receive it back undamaged). If you receive a product that is damaged or defective, we will replace at no charge to you.