Mississippi Valley Cremation · Serving the Quad Cities and surrounding communities
CREMATION PROCESS TIMELINE
We are sorry for your loss. Understanding what happens next can bring peace of mind during a difficult time. Here is a clear overview of each step in our process.
Why the process takes time
We must receive the signed authorizations, death certification and disposition permit before cremation can take place. The timing of certification and permits depends on doctors, coroners, medical examiners and government offices. We work promptly on your family’s behalf, but these steps can affect the overall timeline.
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First 24–48 hours
Your loved one comes into our care
After we receive the call from the place of death, we arrange the transfer to our funeral home. We generally arrive within 30–60 minutes, depending on location and when your loved one is ready for transfer.
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First 24–48 hours
Complete the online arrangements
At mvcremation.com, select the “A Loved One Has Died” Arrange Now box on the homepage to complete the online forms and payment.
After you submit the initial form, we email the cremation authorization and contract for electronic signature. You can sign on a phone, tablet or computer. If you do not have access to one, please call us to make other arrangements.
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First 24–48 hours
We prepare the death certificate
Once we have the required information from the informant or next of kin, we file the death certificate in the state where your loved one died. We may need details such as their Social Security number, parents’ names, birthplace and education.
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Around business days 3–4
Certification and permit
The doctor, coroner or medical examiner signs the death certificate. We then receive the required cremation permit. Certification is handled by the certifier, so the timing of this step can vary. The disposition permit typically takes 2–3 business days and sometimes longer.
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Around business days 4–5
Cremation and preparation
After all authorizations and permits are received, cremation can take place. The cremation itself generally takes 2–4 hours, followed by a processing period of 24–48 hours. The cremated remains are then returned to our office and carefully placed in the selected urn.
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Around business days 7–8
Pickup or shipment
We contact you when everything is complete and coordinate the return of your loved one’s cremated remains and documents. We can arrange pickup or shipment throughout the continental United States, whichever is most convenient for your family. Shipping is available at an additional charge.
Your peace of mind is our priority
Questions along the way?
We are here to help you understand what comes next.
