Mortuary Science Practice Exam

If a body is to be transported via common carrier, what must the family purchase?

1. An urn

2. A sound shipping container

3. A special casket

4. A transportation permit

The correct answer is: A sound shipping container

When transporting a body via common carrier, it is essential to use a sound shipping container, which is specifically designed for this purpose. Such containers are constructed to ensure the safety and integrity of the deceased during transit, providing the necessary protection against physical damage and environmental factors. They are often compliant with regulations set forth by shipping carriers, which may include specific requirements regarding materials, thickness, and sealing to prevent any potential issues during transportation. The other choices, while relevant to the process of handling remains, do not directly address the requirement for ensuring safe and compliant transportation. An urn is typically used for cremated remains and does not apply when the full body is transported. A special casket may be used for burial or viewing, but it is not necessarily mandated by the common carrier for transport purposes. A transportation permit, while important for legal and regulatory compliance, is more about authorized transfer rather than the physical shipping process itself. Therefore, the purchase of a sound shipping container is the critical requirement in this scenario.