At Cairn Ceramics, we understand the sensitive nature of handling cremated remains. We've designed our shipping process to ensure the safety and dignity your memorial deserves.

SHIPPING & HANDLING OPTIONS
When you place your order, you'll select one of two remains handling methods:

Self Collection and Direct Shipping

• • Your memorial price includes the complete journey from start to finish:
  • Collection Kit delivery to your address (5–7 days via standard shipping)
  • Priority Mail Express return shipping (prepaid label and official USPS Cremated Remains shipping box included)
  • Finished memorial delivery to your door (with tracking and signature confirmation)

Important: Until the Collection Kit is scanned and officially accepted by USPS, the package remains in your care and responsibility. We recommend handing the package directly to a USPS retail clerk and obtaining a receipt confirming acceptance. Once the package has been scanned and accepted by USPS, custody and responsibility transfer to USPS for transit. Tracking and insurance coverage begin at that time.

Trusted Partner Handling

When working with a funeral home, cremation provider, or death doula, Cairn Ceramics coordinates all shipping logistics.

• • Collection Kit ships directly to your chosen provider
  • Your provider manages collection and return shipment to Cairn Ceramics
  • Finished memorial delivers to you or your provider — your choice

In this arrangement, responsibility for the Collection Kit remains with the handling provider until the package is scanned and accepted by USPS. Once scanned, USPS assumes custody during transit.

Please note: Your provider may charge separate service fees for collection, packaging, or shipping assistance. These arrangements are handled directly between you and your provider.

TIMELINE

• Collection Kit arrival: 5-7 business days after order placement
• Return transit (Self Collection): 1-2 business days 
• Memorial creation: 4-6 weeks from receipt of materials
• Finished memorial delivery: 3-5 business days

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
At this time, we only ship within the United States due to regulatory requirements for transporting cremated remains.

RETURNS & DAMAGES
Due to the handmade and personalized nature of our work, returns, exchanges, and refunds are not available.

Damaged or incorrect item? Please inspect your order upon arrival and contact us right away if your piece is damaged or if you received the wrong item. 

To begin the replacement process, email us at hello@cairnceramics.com with a time-stamped photo of the damaged item and its packaging. We will coordinate a replacement piece for you at no additional charge.

QUESTIONS?
If you have questions about shipping or would like to discuss your specific situation, please contact us at hello@cairnceramics.com or 503-680-8899. We're here to help make this process as seamless as possible during a difficult time.