How to Choose the Right Size Urn for Your Loved One

How to Choose the Right Size Cremation Urn for Your Loved One

Everything you need to consider when selecting the correct cremation urn for a loved one.

The fragility of life is never more apparent than when we lose a loved one. In the aftermath of their passing, it is common for families to consider their final resting place and how they will honor their memory. Many choose cremation because of its practicality and the ability to keep their loved one close by in an urn.


Upon beginning to shop for urns, you'll notice various sizes available. How do you know which size is appropriate for your loved one? Here's everything you need to consider when selecting the correct urn for ashes.


Will the entire ashes be kept in the urn?

The first thing to consider is whether or not the entire ashes will be kept in the urn. Some families choose to scatter a portion of their loved one's ashes, keeping only a small amount in an urn. Others split the ashes among multiple urns for different family members to keep. And Urn jewelry is a popular option for those who want to keep a small portion of their loved one's ashes close to their hearts.


If that's the case, a smaller urn for loved one will suffice. However, if the family plans to keep all of the ashes in one urn, then a larger size may be necessary. Keepsakes and jewelry will also require smaller urns.


Companion urns

If the family chooses to keep their loved one's ashes together, they may consider a companion urn. These urns are larger and can hold the remains of two individuals. This is a common choice for spouses or siblings who wish to be laid to rest together.


How to determine the size of an urn

If you're unsure of the size needed, it's helpful to know that one pound of body weight results in about one cubic inch of ashes. So, if your loved one weighed 200 pounds, an urn with a minimum capacity of 200 cubic inches or larger would be suitable. Factors like bone density and the type of cremation can also affect the volume of ashes.


If you want to play it safe, choose a cremation urn slightly larger than the calculated size to ensure it can hold all of the ashes. Another option is to consult with the crematorium or funeral home for guidance on urn size.


What if you don't know the weight of your loved one?

If you don't know the exact weight of your loved one, you will need to estimate based on their height and body type. Using a standard weight chart, determine a range of potential weights for your loved one's height and choose an urn that falls within that range. Note that you can also ask the crematorium for assistance in estimating weight.


Size guide for Oaktree Memorials

If you're looking for an elegant, modern urn, Oaktree Memorials offers a wide range of sizes to suit any need. We have five sizes available for most of our models, from extra small to 2XL.


Extra Small

Suitable for pets, toddlers, or for keeping a small portion of ashes. It has a capacity of up to 20 cubic inches. As such, 20 pounds or less would be appropriate for this cremation urn size.


Small

Ideal for children and smaller teens, with a capacity of up to 64 cubic inches.


Medium

Many adult females and smaller males have their ashes placed in medium urns with a capacity of up to 120 cubic inches. They must have weighed 120lbs or less before cremation.


Large

This size is suitable for most male adults, with a capacity of up to 200 cubic inches or 200lbs.


Extra Large

Ideal for heavier people or couples, with a capacity of up to 270 cubic inches or 270lbs.


2XL

For larger individuals or couples, with a capacity of up to 330 cubic inches or 330lbs.


Choose a fitting memorial today.

When deciding on the right urn size for your loved one, consider their weight and whether or not the entire ashes will be kept in one urn. 


Trust Oaktree Memorials to deliver high-quality, beautifully crafted urns for your loved one's final resting place. Shop our urns to find the perfect fit for your cherished family member or friend.

1 comment

Bronnie E.Meadows
Bronnie E.Meadows

We have a 18 Pound poodle that is on her last days.
What size will I need and I would like a small dog paw print on Top of box.If I can love to have it made of cedar wood. and with Snickers engraved on top.
What will be the cost of a urm that you charged to make me one?
Thanks

Bronnie Meadows

818 Oak Heights Drive

Livingston,Tn.38570

931-403-3594

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FAQs

What are the shipping options for my memorial?

Oaktree offers free nationwide shipping on all urns and cremation jewelry items, with delivery typically taking 2-5 business days, including processing time. Need it sooner? Expedited shipping (overnight or 2-day) is available at checkout for an additional cost, and we will also prioritize processing for faster delivery. If you need international shipping, please contact us first to confirm availability and rates.

How long will it take for my engraved item to arrive?

Engraved urns and cremation necklaces require an additional 1-3 business days for personalization before shipping. If you need faster delivery, please contact us—we’ll do our best to expedite processing and accommodate your timeline. Expedited shipping options are also available at checkout to ensure your memorial arrives as soon as possible.

What do I do if I never received my order?

If your order hasn’t arrived within 10 business days, please contact us so we can track your shipment and resolve any issues. We’ll ensure your memorial reaches you as soon as possible.

What do I do if I received a defective order?

If your order arrives damaged or defective, contact us right away. We take pride in our high-quality craftsmanship and will work quickly to replace or repair your item at no additional cost.

Can I return my urn or cremation necklace? What is your return policy?

Oaktree offers a 100-day return and exchange policy for non-engraved items. Due to personalization, engraved urns are final sale and cannot be returned. For full details on how to start a return or exchange, visit our Returns & Exchanges page.

How do I make changes to an urn I’ve already ordered?

If you need to modify an order, contact us as soon as possible. If your urn is already engraved, we may not be able to make changes, but we’ll do our best to accommodate your request before processing.

How are your urns made? Where do the materials come from?

Oaktree’s urns are handcrafted in the USA and Europe using sustainable, locally sourced materials. Our artisans ensure each piece is beautifully designed and built to honor your loved one’s memory with care.

How do I choose the right urn size?

Each product page includes detailed dimensions, weight capacity, and cubic inches to help you select the right urn. As a general guide, 1 cubic inch holds 1 pound of pre-cremation weight. If you need help choosing, feel free to contact us.

Some urns are marked as “sold out.” When will they be available?

Our handmade urns may take a few weeks to restock. If you’re interested in a specific style, contact us for an estimated restock date, and we’ll notify you when it’s available.

Does Oaktree place the ashes into my urn?

Yes, we offer an optional ash transfer service for an additional fee. If you’d like us to handle this process, please contact us when placing your order. You’ll need to mail the ashes to us, and we’ll carefully transfer them into your selected urn.

How do I transfer ashes into my urn?

Cremated remains typically arrive in a sealed plastic bag inside a plastic container. To transfer them, simply place the sealed bag inside your urn. If needed, use a funnel for precise placement. If you have any concerns, our team is happy to assist.

How do I order an engraved urn?

To personalize your urn, select “Yes” under “Would you like your item engraved?” on the product page. If you’d like a custom design beyond standard engraving, contact us and we’ll explore options to create a unique tribute.

Can my urn be shipped directly to a funeral home?

Yes! During checkout, you can enter the funeral home’s address for direct shipping.

Can I customize my urn beyond engraving?

Yes! In addition to engraving, we offer custom design services, including unique finishes, symbols, or artwork. If you’d like to personalize your urn beyond standard options, contact us to discuss customization possibilities.

What materials are Oaktree urns made from?

Our urns are crafted from premium materials such as wood, ceramic, marble, metal, and biodegradable materials. We focus on sustainable sourcing and high-quality craftsmanship to create lasting memorials.

Do you offer keepsake urns or mini urns?

Yes, we offer keepsake urns and mini urns, which are smaller versions designed for sharing ashes among family members or keeping a small portion as a personal tribute.

Can I pre-order an urn for future use?

Absolutely! Many customers choose to pre-order an urn in advance. This ensures availability and allows for customization without time constraints. Contact us to arrange a pre-order.

Do you offer pet urns?

Yes, we provide a range of pet memorial urns designed to honor beloved pets. These are available in different materials and sizes to suit dogs, cats, and other pets.

How do I clean and maintain my urn?

Urns require gentle care to maintain their beauty. Use a soft cloth and mild cleaner for metal or ceramic urns. Avoid direct sunlight and moisture to preserve wood urns. Contact us for specific care instructions based on your urn’s material.

Can I travel with an urn? Are they TSA-approved?

Most Oaktree urns are TSA-compliant, making them safe for air travel. Choose a non-metal urn to ensure easy screening. We recommend carrying the urn in your carry-on bag and bringing the cremation certificate from the funeral home.

How do I track my order?

Once your order ships, we’ll send you a tracking number via email. You can use this to monitor the shipment status. If you don’t receive tracking details, contact us for assistance.

How do I contact Oaktree if my question isn’t answered here?

We’re happy to assist! Visit our Contact Us page to reach us via email, chat, or phone. Our compassionate team is ready to help.