Remains should be processed by the crematory to reduce all fragments to fine particles. Crematories return the cremated remains in a metal, plastic, or cardboard container that is perfectly adequate for burial, shipping, or placing in a columbarium. The family may prefer an aesthetic or other appropriate receptacle. Many full-service mortuaries cooperate with memorial societies to provide society members with a range of funeral options. However, if there is no memorial society in your area, you may find some of the direct cremation firms considerably less expensive than their competition.
Most religions permit cremation.
Since Vatican II Council in 1964, the Code of Canon Law allows Roman Catholics a choice between burial and cremation. The Greek and Jewish Orthodox faiths oppose cremation, as do some others.