They may be made from metal, wood, fiberglass, or plastic. Traditionally, caskets were sold only by funeral homes, but now cemeteries and third parties sell caskets, even on the Internet. Collect casket price lists from several funeral homes to compare the costs of a particular model. Under the federal Funeral Rule, a funeral home cannot charge you extra if you provide your own casket from an outside source. No casket is required if you choose direct cremation, immediate burial, or to donate the body to science.
Most cemeteries require the use of a grave liner or vault.
These outer burial containers surround the casket in the grave to prevent the ground from sinking as settling occurs over time. In some locations, both funeral homes and cemeteries sell vaults and liners. In some areas, it is possible, and less expensive, to purchase an outer burial container from a third party. You can collect outer burial container price lists from several providers to compare the costs of a particular model. Be sure you buy only what you planned.