Welcome to the Canadian Urns FAQ page. Here you'll find helpful answers to common questions about our handcrafted, Canadian-made cremation urns. Whether you're exploring sizing, storage, customization, or general inquiries, we’re here to guide you with clarity and compassion.

Urn Sizing & Types

What size urn do I need?
Urn capacity is measured in cubic inches. The general rule is 1 pound of healthy body weight equals 1 cubic inch of cremains. For example, a 150 lb person requires an urn of at least 150 cubic inches. Most Canadian Urns are 240+ cubic inches to allow for keepsakes. We also offer companion urns (400+ cubic inches) for two individuals or one plus-sized person.

At the other end of the scale we also produce small urns for infants and small children. These may range from 15 to 50 cubic inches.

What is a cubic inch?
One cubic inch equals approximately 16.4 milliliters. It’s the volume of a cube that measures 1 inch on each side.

How much do cremated ashes weigh?
On average, cremated remains weigh 4–6 pounds depending on body size and bone density. Male cremains average 6 lbs, female cremains average 4 lbs.

What types of urns do you offer?
We currently offer adult urns, companion urns, and miniature/pet urns. All are crafted from Canadian hardwoods and made in our Dunrobin, Ontario workshop.

What is a companion urn?
A companion urn holds the remains of two adults. These urns may include a removable divider and allow personalized engravings for both individuals.

What is a miniature urn?
Miniature urns are smaller keepsake vessels (33 cubic inches) often used for sharing ashes among family members or for pet and infant remains. These urns are also used for infants and very small children.

Storing & Handling Cremains

Can I keep the urn at home?
Yes. Many families choose to display urns at home or store them in churches or columbariums.

How do I access the urn's interior?
Our urns are secured with 4 screws. Remove the screws, insert the plastic bag of ashes, and reattach the base using the same holes for proper alignment.

How do I transfer ashes into the urn?

1. Place the entire container inside the urn (if it fits).

2. Transfer the sealed bag into the urn.

3. Pour ashes directly into the urn.

4. Transfer ashes into a new bag inside the urn.

Should I seal the urn?
Sealing is optional. The ashes are usually in a plastic bag, but you may apply a silicone bead before sealing the base for added protection.

Can ashes be divided?
Yes. If a religion permits cremation, it generally permits dividing ashes among urns or keepsakes.

Is a burial vault required?
Vaults are not legally required in most provinces, but some cemeteries may require them for maintenance and aesthetics.

How do cremains arrive from the funeral home?
Typically in a sealed plastic bag inside a cardboard or plastic container. The bag can be placed directly in the urn.

Can I include personal items in the urn?
Yes. Jewelry, photos, letters, or other mementos may be placed inside, as long as they fit.

Who fills the urn?
Most families do it themselves, but funeral homes will also assist upon request.

Customization

What can be engraved on the urn?
We offer full personalization with names, dates, quotes, and images like hearts, doves, or hobbies (e.g., golf clubs). All engraving is included in the price and previewed before carving.

Can I engrave a photograph?
Not currently, though we’re exploring laser options for future offerings.

Will engraving delay my order?
Usually not. Most engraving is completed within a day and does not impact shipping timelines.

What woods are used?
We use Canadian-sourced Black Walnut, Cherry, and White Oak. The inscription plates are crafted from Canadian Maple.

Can I request a custom urn?
Yes. We’re happy to discuss one-of-a-kind urns based on your vision. Contact us to explore custom sizes, woods, and design elements.

Are your urns 100% Canadian made?
Absolutely. All materials are sourced in Canada, and each urn is handcrafted in our Dunrobin, Ontario workshop.

General Questions

Do I have to buy an urn from a funeral home?
No. By law, funeral homes must accept third-party urns. You're free to choose a handcrafted Canadian urn that suits your needs.

Can I pre-purchase an urn?
Yes. Many people plan ahead to ensure their wishes are honored and to ease the burden on loved ones. Date plates can be engraved later. We also offer gift certificates that do not expire.

Do cremation ashes decompose?
Ashes do not decompose and may harm plant life if buried directly. Consider this if scattering or interring outdoors.

Are your urns suitable for airline travel?
Yes. Our wooden urns meet TSA guidelines and are x-ray friendly. Cremains will not be affected by security scanning.

How do I choose the right urn?
Choose based on personal significance, size needs, and custom elements. We’re happy to help guide you through the decision.

Is it legal to scatter ashes?
In most of Ontario, yes—but check your local municipality and obtain permission for private property or public spaces.

Do you sell gift cards?
Yes. Gift cards are available in $50, $100, and $250 amounts and never expire.

Can I contact you with questions?
Absolutely. We are a small, family-run business and welcome your calls or emails. We’re here to help with anything you need.

For further assistance or to speak with us directly, please visit our Contact Us page or email canadianurns@gmail.com.

Canadian Urns – Handcrafted with care in Dunrobin, Ontario. Proudly Canadian made.