Cremation tags (also known as cremation ID discs or crematory identification tags) are an essential tool for crematories in the cremation process — they’re even an essential tool for funeral homes that manage large case volumes on an annual basis.

If you’re a crematory operator or a removal tech, you’re in the right place. Read our guide for a solid overview of cremation tags.

What Are Cremation Tags?

Cremation tags are typically either metal or plastic tags that are secured to each decedent to help track their identity and location throughout their entire care process.

They typically include a barcode or a QR code that can be scanned to verify identity as each step in the preparation and disposition process is completed.

Does My Crematory Need Cremation Tags?

Yes! Cremation tags and a proper body tracking process at your facility will help ensure that every decedent is properly identified from first call to final disposition, and they help prevent accidental mix-ups.

Some states even require unique identification tagging systems for crematories. CANA offers additional insight into the regulations that crematories are required to follow.

Cremation tags are useful for several reasons. They help:

• Minimize a crematory’s risk for potential body or belonging mix-ups
• Offer more peace of mind to the families of the loved ones you’re caring for
• Provide additional visibility in your crematory’s operations
• Protect your reputation and build additional community trust for your crematory

What Types of Cremation Tags Are There?

As mentioned above, your crematory has a few different options when it comes to buying and utilizing cremation tags:

• Metal Cremation Tags: these tags are typically available in several grades of aluminum, brass, or stainless steel. They’re shaped either rectangular or circular. They’re usually laser-etched or engraved with custom digit codes, QR codes, or barcodes.
  • Not all metal cremation tags are cremation retort-proof, but some are. Sometimes, they can be secured to a decedent’s wrist or ankle with a metal band before final disposition. Other times, they must be secured after a final disposition.
    
• Plastic Cremation Tags: these tags are made from plastic and look similar to a medical bracelet. These are typically secured to a decedent’s cremated remains after the disposition has been completed.
• Sticky Labels or Notes: crematories will oftentimes also print off sticky labels to attach to every decedent. These are typically secured after the disposition has been completed.
  

How Much Do Cremation Tags Cost?

Cremation tags can cost anywhere between $0.50 per tag to $10 per tag. Costs vary based on the quality of the cremation tags that you purchase. It’s recommended that you invest in quality crematory tags that don’t present any risk of identification mix-ups.

Plastic cremation tags or sticky labels are generally more cost-effective, but open the door to more human error both before and after disposition.

When you’re planning your annual budget for your crematory, be sure to properly account for this business expense — regardless of which type of system you decide to proceed with.

How Do I Keep Track of Every Cremation Tag?

Pen and paper or a simple spreadsheet is an option to help you keep track of every unique cremation tag that your facility has used, but this can become time-consuming and tedious quickly.

There are also digital body tracking systems and cremation tag platforms available for both funeral homes and crematories.

Regardless of whatever process you choose to implement, be sure to create a system that holds your staff accountable, is easy to learn, and doesn’t add too much work to your already-busy schedule.

Get Started With KeepTrack™

At Gather, we’ve built an award-nominated body tracking and cremation tag system for funeral homes and crematories.

We offer both metal and plastic cremation tag options that help you streamline your chain of custody, properly identify every decedent in your care, and boost your reputation.

If you’re interested in learning more about how KeepTrack works, chat with our team by calling us directly at (888) 492-2697 or booking a 15-minute demo.