10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Cremation Urn Online

Losing a loved one is never easy, and finding the right cremation urn can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re shopping online. With so many choices and price points, it’s hard to know where to begin or whom to trust. Asking the right questions can help you choose an urn that honors your loved one beautifully and is made to last.

Whether you’re searching for cremation urns online, wondering where to buy cremation urns, or considering a handmade urn, here are ten essential questions to guide your decision.

1. What Size Cremation Urn Do I Need?

Urns come in different sizes, measured in cubic inches — one cubic inch for every pound of body weight.

• Standard adult urn: about 200 cubic inches

• Pet urn: 25–100 cubic inches

• Keepsake urn: a smaller option for sharing remains among family

Before buying online, make sure the urn’s size is clearly listed in the product description.

2. What Material Is the Urn Made From?

Cremation urns can be made from wood, metal, ceramic, glass, or biodegradable materials. Each has a unique look and feel.

• Wooden urns (like the ones I make at Boyce Studio) are warm, natural, and often handcrafted.

• Metal urns are durable and traditional.

• Ceramic or glass urns offer artistic appeal but can be fragile.

Knowing the material helps you understand both the aesthetic and longevity of the urn.

3. Is It Handmade or Mass-Produced?

This is one of the most important questions to ask. Handmade urns are crafted with care, attention, and intention — each piece slightly unique.
Mass-produced urns, on the other hand, are often imported and made with cheaper materials.

Handmade vs. Factory-Made Urns:

Choosing a handmade urn supports small makers and ensures your loved one’s memorial is one of a kind.

4. Can the Urn Be Personalized?

Many families want an urn that reflects the person’s spirit — through engraving, laser etching, or custom wood choice. Ask if the maker offers personalization options.
At Boyce Studio, for instance, each wooden cremation urn can be etched with a name, date, or design that makes it truly personal.

5. Is the Seller Transparent About Their Process?

A trustworthy online shop will show how and where their urns are made. Look for photos, behind-the-scenes videos, or an About page that introduces the maker. Transparency builds trust and helps you feel confident in your purchase.

6. What Is the Return or Exchange Policy?

Even in times of grief, practical matters count. Check the store’s return or exchange policy before buying. Reputable sellers of cremation urns online will offer clear information about what to do if something arrives damaged or isn’t the right fit.

7. How Long Will Shipping Take?

If you need the urn for a memorial service, make sure the timeline works for you. Handmade urns may take a little longer to create, but the craftsmanship is worth the wait.

Look for ready-to-ship options if you need something quickly — many artisans keep a small inventory on hand for just that reason.

8. Are Reviews or Testimonials Available?

Read what other customers have said. Genuine reviews can reveal how the urn looks in person, how it was packaged, and how responsive the maker was. A small maker with consistent, thoughtful feedback is often more reliable than a large retailer with generic reviews.

9. Does the Urn Fit Your Loved One’s Style or Story?

This might not be a “technical” question, but it’s an important one. Does the urn feel right? The wood grain, the color, the form — all of it should reflect the person you’re honoring.

Think of it as creating a lasting tribute rather than buying a product.

10. Are You Supporting a Maker You Believe In?

When you buy directly from an artist or small business, you’re not just purchasing an urn — you’re supporting someone who truly cares about the meaning behind their work.

At Boyce Studio, every urn is made by hand in California from rescued and sustainable wood, turning materials that might have gone to waste into something enduring and full of life.

Final Thoughts

Buying a cremation urn online doesn’t have to be impersonal or confusing. By asking the right questions, you can find a memorial that feels authentic, beautiful, and aligned with your values.

If you’re looking for handmade wooden cremation urns that celebrate craftsmanship and connection to nature, explore my Ready-to-Ship Collection or reach out for a custom design. Every piece is made with care — a small act of love, built to last.