Repatriating a body to the UK

Melanie Walkling, International Operations Director at Rowland Brothers International, answers the questions that arise when you have to repatriate the body of a loved one who has died overseas back to the UK.

Repatriation Helpline
Rowland Brothers operate the repatriation helpline for the National Association of Funeral Directors.
UK: 0800 9173585
Int.: +4420 868423224

Will travel insurance pay for the repatriation?

If you have travel insurance, call the emergency telephone number as soon as possible. Explain what has happened and follow their instructions.

We don't have travel insurance - what should we do?

You will need advice and information to help you make a decision. Ask your Embassy or High Commission who can help you with information about international repatriation arrangements, local burial or cremation.

How long will the repatriation take?

Depending on the circumstances and location, repatriations can take from three to ten working days.

Local regulations will apply regardless of the nationality of the deceased.

This may include post mortem or retaining organs without the family's knowledge or consent.

What about personal effects?

If relatives or friends were travelling with the deceased, they should collect all valuables and luggage and bring them home.

If there are no travelling companions, next of kin should request an inventory of the property to select the items you want to receive, and ask for an estimate of transportation costs.

You may be asked to sign a disclaimer of responsibility for personal effects which are transported as unaccompanied manifested cargo.

Can we meet the flight at the airport?

Due to airport security issues, this is prohibited at many international airports.

Only the consignee will be permitted to collect the coffin from the designated collection area. Customs clearance can take several hours.

Can we see our loved one when he/she gets home?

Unfortunately there is no guarantee this will be possible as embalming procedures and standards vary. Seek your funeral director's advice about viewing after your loved one arrives home.

Will there be a death certificate?

A local death certificate may not be available immediately.

Sometimes a precise medical cause of death is not given.

Local documents may not be in English, but all available local documents should accompany the deceased.

When can we hold the funeral?

Wait until your loved one has arrived home before confirming a date for the funeral as flights may be delayed, cancelled or diverted. Ask your funeral director or local officials if there will be any delay before the funeral can take place.

Will we have to choose another coffin for the funeral?

Transportation coffins are often very simple, and will be zinc lined to meet international transportation requirements. Damage is possible during the flight.

Many families select another coffin for the funeral service. Ask your funeral director for advice.