Your Guide to Cardboard Coffins

When a loved one passes away there are often many decisions to be made. Whether you choose burial or cremation, one decision you’ll have to make will be about the type of coffin you use. With more and more people looking for ways to lighten their environmental footprint, it will come as no surprise that this trend has extended to coffins too. But that’s not the only reason why cardboard coffins are increasing in popularity.

What is a cardboard coffin?

Cardboard coffins are, as the name suggests, coffins made of cardboard.

Whilst you might worry about a cardboard coffin losing its structure if it were to get wet, there’s really no need to. The cardboard coffins used by Willed are made from premium-grade, triple layer fibreboard, making them sturdy and durable.

Whilst you might think cardboard coffins could be flimsy, in fact a standard size coffin has a weight rating of up to 240kg. In the case that the deceased weighs more than that or was particularly tall, a larger sized coffin is also available.

Cost of a cardboard coffin

Like most things, the price of cardboard coffins can vary.

With a quick search online, you are likely to find basic cardboard coffins ranging in price from $400 to $600. These are the types of coffins likely to be used in direct or unattended cremations.

If you want to display the coffin at a funeral service, you might like to customise it with printed designs or personalise it with photos. In that case, you are likely to spend somewhere between $2,000 and $5,000.

At Willed, a premium cardboard coffin is included with every cremation package.

Are cardboard coffins legal?

Given they are a newer product within the funeral industry, some funeral homes have been hesitant to allow the use of cardboard coffins. Rest assured though, they are indeed legally accepted for burial and cremation right across Australia.

At Willed, every cardboard coffin used meets Australian standards.

Benefits of cardboard coffins

Apart from being cheaper than traditional coffins, there are a range of benefits when using a cardboard coffin.

Firstly, cardboard coffins are more sustainable and eco-friendly. As they don’t contain any toxic resins, they cremate cleanly or biodegrade naturally.

Secondly, whereas traditional coffins can be one of the biggest expenses of a funeral, a cardboard coffin needn’t be.

Weighing just 6kg and assembled in minutes, cardboard coffins are also much lighter and easier to use than traditional caskets.

Wrap up

When it comes to honouring your loved one, choosing a cardboard coffin is no less respectful than a more elaborate coffin. Although a more simple choice, for many people, their final wish is to leave the world with the smallest possible eco-footprint and a cardboard coffin is the first step.

If you are dealing with the loss of a loved one or if you’d like to plan for the future, let the team at Willed help you. We offer a high quality, simple cremation service at an affordable price. Visit willed.com.au or phone us on 1300 945 533 to learn more.