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Outer Containers Explained

Outer Containers Explained

What is it? Why do we need it?

What is an outer container?
An outer burial container is exactly like it sounds: it's a box made of reinforced concrete, metal or a composite material set in the grave space before the burial.  Most outer containers used in our area are constructed so the casket or or urn is lowered into the container, and a cover is placed top. Metal vaults are constructed with a flat bottom with the sides and top as a one piece unit lowered to fit the bottom.

There are also two general categories: The first is called a burial vault, which is made of reinforced concrete, steel or a composite material which may also have a liner made of a composite or metal material. The top cover seals when placed on the frame of the box. The second is a grave liner, which is a box made of reinforced concrete that often has drainage ports and no seals.

In our area, most outer containers are concrete or composite burial vaults or concrete liners.  

Why do I need an outer container?
In most areas, including the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, outer containers are not required by law.  However most of the cemeteries in our area do require an outer burial container, especially for caskets.  The outer container protects the casket or urn from the weight of the cemetery's heavy equipment that may travel over grave spaces in order to open and close grave spaces as well as maintain the grounds.  Depending on the type of outer container, it may also help prevent water from entering the chamber and keep the ground surrounding the grave from settling too much.

How much do outer containers cost?
This will vary from cemetery to cemetery, funeral home to funeral home.  In general for research purposes only, grave liners may cost anywhere from $600.00 to $900.00, with burial vaults costing anywhere from around $1,200.00 and up.  All funeral homes are required by law to provide an Outer Container Price List with the descriptions and pricing, and cemeteries that offer outer containers should also have a price list disclosing costs.

The cemetery where our lot is located requires an outer container.  Where do we get one and what is the process?
Some cemeteries sell outer containers, so you may purchase one directly from the cemetery with the help of your funeral director.  Other cemeteries do not sell outer containers, so you would purchase one from the funeral home at the time you are planning the funeral .  Outer containers purchased from a cemetery will be installed by the cemetery personnel, while funeral homes usually partner with a local vault company where the outer container is constructed. The vault company will transport the outer container to the cemetery on a heavy duty truck with specialized equipment including booms/crane to complete the installation.






                          A basic burial vault, the "Classic," shown below above ground.                                                    Below illustrates the Doric Above ground seal system                                                                                    Some vaults offer full customization.
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