Which professional is responsible for the approval of shipping cases for transportation of deceased bodies?

The funeral director is responsible for the approval of shipping cases for the transportation of deceased bodies. This role entails ensuring that the remains are prepared in compliance with legal and health regulations, as well as industry standards. The funeral director must assess the condition of the body and determine the appropriate shipping case that meets both safety and legal transport requirements.

In this capacity, the funeral director coordinates all necessary paperwork, including permits and shipping documentation, and ensures that any specific requirements dictated by the receiving jurisdiction are met. This not only involves compliance with local and state laws but also with best practices in the funeral service profession, which includes proper handling and respect for deceased individuals.

Other professionals listed, such as the local health authority and the transportation department, have specific roles related to health regulations and transportation services, respectively. Cemetery trustees typically manage cemetery operations and do not handle shipping logistics for deceased individuals. Therefore, their responsibilities do not overlap with the approval of shipping cases, which is a direct function of the funeral director.