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Choosing a Coffin | Chinese, Western and Eco-Friendly Cardboard Coffins
Coffins fall broadly into three types. First decide on cremation or burial, then check the materials, dimensions and load capacity, and finally compare each cost.
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Three steps for picking a coffin
The price of the coffin is the most fluctuating item in the entire funeral, ranging from a few thousand to over a million. But choosing the right one is not based on expensiveness, but based on whether conforms to the regulations, whether it is enough size, and whether it is suitable for the ceremony . We recommend that families follow the following three steps:
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Step 1: Decide on Cremation or Burial
Currently, more than 90% of deaths in Hong Kong are cremated. When choosing for cremation, you must comply with the FEHD Cremation Coffin Code (size, materials, decorations); when choosing for burial, you must consider the wood thickness and corrosion resistance, but you must also remember that public cemeteries must be exhumed after six years . The direction is undecided, you can first read for the complete process of the posthumous affairs .
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Step 2: Select the shape according to religion and ritual
Taoism, Buddhism and traditional folk ceremonies often use Chinese-style coffins; if the deceased is a Catholic or Christian, the family members often choose Western-style coffins. For details of the ceremony, please see for various religious ceremonies and One-stop service Taoism. Buddhist ritual .
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Step 3: Check size, load-bearing and quotation details
Confirm whether the height/width/length is within the acceptable range of the crematorium, whether the load-bearing capacity is sufficient, and whether the quotation includes coffin mounting, body of the deceased transportation, encoffining and hearse. List items item by item, whichever comes first.
Coffins can be roughly divided into three types
Chinese coffin
Chinese coffins are classified by shape into Dou Ban, Hang Toi, Baat Dai and Lotus styles. They are usually made of nanmu, beech, fir or mixed timber. Prices vary considerably by wood type, with the least expensive costing a few thousand Hong Kong dollars. Burial may call for a higher specification; coffins made from premium timber such as Longchuan fir can cost over a million Hong Kong dollars.
Chinese-style coffins are mostly used in conjunction with Taoist chanting, Buddhist chanting and traditional folk ceremonies. They are thicker in appearance, with a larger head and smaller tail, and a raised cover. Some families will choose the shape based on the deceased's zodiac sign or the master's opinion on choosing a date, while others use a fixed style to show the same lineage.
Western coffin
Western coffins are usually made of mixed timber, teak or oak, with copper coffins also available. Mixed timber is generally used for cremation and is less expensive; teak, oak and copper are generally used for burial. Decoration varies widely, from carved patterns to fitted handles. Prices range from HK$6,000 to more than HK$1 million. Families of Catholic or Protestant Christian deceased people usually choose Western coffins.
Common names in the industry include " square box " (a rectangular style with straight four sides, the most common) and " olive box " (narrow at both ends, wider in the middle, and shaped like an olive kernel). The Consumer Council's set price survey also uses these two styles as the main comparison targets. Note that is equipped with a metal hand pump, which must be removed before entering the furnace .
cardboard coffin (environmentally friendly coffin)
In foreign countries, there are coffin companies that make coffins from paper and paint them with beautiful patterns. Don’t underestimate the fact that they are made of paper. These cardboard coffin materials made of environmentally friendly paper can bear a weight of more than 250 kilograms. There are also companies in China that produce environmentally friendly cardboard coffin materials, manufacturing Chinese and Western-style cardboard coffin materials. However, Hong Kong coffin shops generally do not have cardboard coffin in stock, so if you want to buy it, you have to special order .
Environmentally friendly coffins in Hong Kong are mainly made of thick honeycomb cardboard, recycled paper or plant fibres (such as rice husks, sugarcane bagasse, corn stalks, coconut shells, etc.). FEHD has specification requirements for environmentally friendly coffins provided by licensed undertakers, see the next section for details. The appearance of environmentally friendly coffins can be similar to that of Western-style wooden coffins, which are equally solemn and decent, and release less pollutants during cremation.
Cremation Coffin Code and Legal Requirements
Taking the cremation time of each session in Hong Kong public crematoriums as an example, is an average of 2.5 hours . The government has strict controls on the exhaust gas emitted by crematoriums to prevent air pollution. An unsuitable coffin and/or its contents will affect the operation of the cremator and may pollute the air.
FEHD recommended size limit
- Height Not more than 710 mm (approximately 28 inches)
- Width Not more than 760 mm (approximately 30 inches)
- Length Not greater than 1,980 mm (approximately 78 inches)
IMPORTANT: The above are generally recommended upper limits for FEHD, while actual size limits vary with individual crematoriums and should be checked first. Please check with the crematorium or licensed undertaker you booked before ordering, especially for extra-large sizes. The six government crematoriums are Cape Collinson, Diamond Hill, Kwai Chung, Fu Shan, Wo Hop Shek and Cheung Chau.
Materials and accessories regulations
In order to avoid polluting the environment, citizens and funeral professionals are requested to: when choosing coffins:
- The surface of the coffin should not be inlaid with metal ornaments or accessories made of plastic materials (such as polyvinyl chloride, PVC) ;
- Metal or plastic objects and valuable burial goods should not be placed inside the coffin;
- Before the coffin enters the cremator, all metal or plastic decorations on the surface must be removed ;
- The coffin must display the deceased’s name.
If necessary, FEHD can remove all surface decorations (including metal or plastic decorations) on the coffin before cremating the coffin in accordance with the restrictions on cremated coffins in the " Cremation and Gardens of Remembrance Regulation " ( Chapter 132M ). All removed decorations will be destroyed/disposed of.
Chapter 132M: Cremation not accepted under three circumstances
According to the Cremation and Gardens of Memorials Regulations (Chapter 132M), if the coffin containing the remains contains the following conditions, the remains will not be accepted for cremation in the government crematorium :
- Contains metal devices that are not considered by the Director of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) to be suitable for cremation;
- The bottom is equipped with horizontal bars or wedges ;
- Contains any sawdust, charcoal, bitumen, tar, raw cotton, metal or other articles or substances which in the opinion of the Director are unfit for burning in a crematorium.
FEHD specifications for environmentally friendly coffins
FEHD requires the environmentally friendly coffins provided by licensed undertakers to meet certain specifications:
- The main structure of the coffin must be made of cardboard or similar paper materials and does not contain chloride, plastic, metal and other substances or materials ( except steel screws and U-shaped nails );
- The coffin is impermeable both inside and outside ;
- water-soluble non-toxic paint and materials must be used to facilitate combustion;
- The load-bearing capacity shall not be less than 150 kg and will not be significantly deformed due to the load .
Purchase reminder: Research by the Consumer Council found that the claimed load-bearing capacity of environmentally friendly coffins on the market ranges from approximately 114 kg to 200 kg . Among them , the claimed load-bearing capacity of some service providers is lower than the 150 kg required by FEHD . Before placing an order, please ask the supplier to state in writing the main material, load-bearing capacity, and compliance with FEHD specifications. Do not rely solely on verbal promises.
We are happy to provide free professional advice (852) 82099774 Mr Wu, and we can instantly check whether your favorite style meets all the above requirements.
Coffin price compared with the market
Coffin prices vary greatly, mainly due to wood grade, thickness, workmanship, size , and whether the quote is accompanied by other services. The following is the reference range of market public information:
Eco-Friendly Coffins Are Not Necessarily Cheaper than Wooden Coffins
A Consumer Council survey found little overall price difference between eco-coffins and Western-style coffins. Of 12 providers, six offered eco-coffins at HK$400–5,700 less than mixed-wood box coffins, while three charged the same price. The main reason to choose an eco-coffin is therefore often environmental concern or a wish for green burial, rather than savings alone.
The reality of low usage
Figures provided by FEHD to the Consumer Council show that among the total number of cremations from 2012 to 2021, the number of cases using environmentally friendly coffins only accounted for 1.1% to 4.55% . The Consumer Council analyzed that the reasons include insufficient price incentives, limited promotion by the industry (only a few licensed undertakers introduce environmentally friendly coffins on their website), and some citizens believe that environmentally friendly coffins are "cardboard coffin" and are not very accepting of them. The Consumer Council has also suggested that the government provide incentives, such as giving a discount on cremation fees .
Price comparison tips: When asking for price, be sure to distinguish between the "coffin itself price" and the "package price." The package price may include the auditorium, transportation of the body of the deceased, burial, and hearse, but may not include government cremation fees (adults $1,220, children $650) . Tim Fat Funeral adopts One list, one clear view, one price, full service , will never charge for miscellaneous expenses , you can request each item to be listed in writing before making a decision.
Considerations for coffins for burial
If you choose to bury the coffin, the requirements for the coffin may be higher. Generally, wood with thicker body, higher density and better corrosion resistance is selected, such as Chinese-style nanmu, beech, or Western-style teak, oak or even copper coffin.
However, there is one thing that many family members overlook: Hong Kong public cemeteries implement a six-year exhumation system . Exhumation of remains (commonly known as "exhumation") is required after burial in a public cemetery for six years. The family must fill out FEHB 148 to apply for a "Permit to Remove / Exhume Remains" (fee $120), and arrange for a masonry contractor registered by FEHD to be carried out under the supervision of FEHD staff. In other words, coffins in public cemeteries are not kept for a long time, and an excessive budget may not meet actual needs.
Cemeteries in private cemeteries are divided into two categories: permanent and subject to periodic exhumation . Please inquire directly with the individual cemetery management agency for fees and arrangements. Before ordering a coffin, make sure the burial site belongs to the first category and decide on the wood grade first. The current charges for burial in public cemeteries are $3,190 for adults and $2,605 for children; burial urn (exhumed remains burial) or additional burial is $6,305 for each exhumed remains or ashes. For the complete burial, exhumation, burial urn and relocation process, please see exhumation. cemetery and columbarium niche / cemetery .
Burial objects: What can and cannot be included?
Families often want to place the deceased's beloved possessions in the coffin. This is understandable, but there are practical limitations to cremation. The principle is so simple: It can be burned, it can be burned cleanly, it does not contain metal or plastic, and it is not expensive .
Practical reminder: It is usually recommended that family members take back jade, hand rings, wedding rings, etc. before burial as a souvenir, or replace them with paper offerings , which not only complies with regulations but also retains the sincerity. For the style of paper offerings, please refer to paper offerings ; for the matching of burial clothing and burial quilt, see burial clothing . Medical implants (such as pacemakers) must be disposed of before burial. Please inform us in advance.
The coordination of body shape, mortuary and auditorium
The coffin doesn’t just have to be picked up, it also needs to be “passed through” – from the mortuary, hearse, auditorium to crematorium, each section has actual space restrictions.
- A larger body: FEHD recommends a maximum coffin size of 710 mm high × 760 mm wide × 1,980 mm long, but accepted dimensions and weight limits vary slightly between crematoria. For an oversized coffin, consult the undertaker and crematorium before booking the cremation to confirm a workable arrangement.
- Auditorium and mourning hall layout : The size of the coffin will affect the mourning hall space, the placement of floral tribute stands and the movement of people visiting the deceased. See funeral parlour for setting up the mourning hall location.
- Hospital-based funerals and farewell ceremonies Case : The hospital farewell room has a small space, so it is advisable to use a standard-sized wooden square box or an environmentally friendly coffin for the smoothest process.
- Laborers and coffin-carrying : The heavier the wood, the more laborers required, which directly affects the labor cost. Copper coffins and thick teak coffins are heavy and must be arranged in advance.
- Hearse : For extra large coffins, the size of the hearse compartment must be confirmed, and a separate vehicle will be allocated if necessary.
For the overall service items (body of the deceased transportation, burial, make-up, funeral service, hearse, tour bus), please refer to Service Scope and Materials List .
Coffin Requirements for Transporting a Body Abroad
If the body of the deceased is to be transported to the mainland or overseas for burial, the coffin specifications will be much more complicated. In addition to applying for a " Permit to Remove the Corpse from Hong Kong " ( Form 9 ) from the Death Registration Office of the Immigration Department, the receiving government, airlines or land ports have different regulations on the sealing method, antiseptic treatment and outer packaging of the coffin, which are not unified standards .
Therefore, must confirm the destination, mode of transportation (air, land or sea) and the specific requirements of the carrier before ordering a coffin , and then decide on the specifications of the coffin to avoid being rejected or having to be reprocessed upon arrival. When a body of the deceased enters Hong Kong, a licensed undertaker or funeral parlour must apply for a "Human Corpse Import Licence" (Application Form DH2437) from the Port Health Division of the Department of Health.
For a complete set of entry and exit procedures for the body of the deceased, exhumed remains and ashes, including documents, air tickets and consulate interview arrangements, please see Entry and Exit Processing for the body of the deceased .
Ten questions you must ask before placing an order
- What are the coffin’s exact height, width and length in millimetres? Are they within the limits of the booked crematorium?
- What is the body material ? (Phoebe/Beech/Fir/Miscellaneous wood/Teak/Oak/Copper/Cardboard)
- For an eco-coffin, what is its load capacity? Can it support the FEHD-required 150 kg without significant deformation? Can this be confirmed in writing?
- Are there metal or PVC ornaments or hand pumps on the surface? Does it need to be dismantled before entering the furnace?
- Does the coffin have crosspieces or wedges fitted to its base? These are grounds for refusal of cremation under Cap. 132M.
- Does the quotation include coffin decoration (lining, pillow, quilt)?
- Does the quotation include body of the deceased transportation, encoffining, make-up, and hearse ?
- Does the quote include government cremation fee ($1,220 for adults, $650 for children)?
- If a special order is needed, such as an eco-coffin or oversized coffin, how long will it take? Are there extra charges?
- Is there a written list itemized? Are there any "miscellaneous payment on behalf of" surcharges?
Tim Fat Funeral is FEHD licensed undertaker , located in G/F, 26 Baker Street, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong . We provide a truly one-stop funeral service, One list, one clear, one price, a full set of services, and no miscellaneous fees will be charged . Welcome to call or visit us with the above ten questions: 82099774 (24 hours).
Supporting arrangements
Items decided together with the coffin
Burial supplies
The style of burial clothing must be coordinated with the colour of the interior of the coffin, and the material must also meet the requirements of the cremation. It is recommended to select them at the same time.
sacrifice
Metal or precious burial offerings can be replaced by paper offerings, which is both in compliance with regulations and still retains the spirit of the deceased.
Venue
The size of the coffin directly affects the space of the mourning hall, the placement of floral tribute stands and the movement of people paying respects to the deceased, and should be confirmed simultaneously.
ceremony
Taoism, Buddhism, Catholicism, Christianity and non-religious farewell ceremonies all have their own customary coffin shapes.
buried
Ashes placement after cremation, burial in the cemetery, or green burial ashes will in turn affect coffin selection.
Starting from 8800
In conjunction with the SWD burial grant, a coffin and basic supplies that meet the specifications are provided, making it solemn and appropriate.
Coffin FAQ
Here are 20 of the most frequently asked questions by family members. For funeral customs, seven first and last seven, funeral return gifts condolence money, etc., please see for the full version of FAQ ; for the overall process, please see Posthumous Procedure Guide .
What types of coffin are available in Hong Kong, and how do they differ?
Three main categories: Chinese coffins (Dou Ban, Hang Toi, Baat Dai and Lotus; nanmu, beech, fir or mixed timber), Western coffins (rectangular and olive-shaped; mixed timber, teak, oak or copper), and eco-friendly / cardboard coffins (honeycomb cardboard, recycled paper or plant fibre). First decide on cremation or burial, then check the material, dimensions and load capacity.
What are the size restrictions for cremation coffins?
FEHD recommends avoiding the use of coffins larger than 710 mm (28 inches) high / 760 mm (30 inches) wide / 1,980 mm (78 inches) long . The actual size limit varies with individual crematoriums and should be verified before ordering.
Can there be metal or plastic decorations on the surface of the coffin?
Not appropriate. Do not put metal ornaments or PVC and other plastic accessories on the surface; All metal or plastic ornaments on the surface must be removed before entering the furnace . FEHD can be cremated with all surface decorations removed in accordance with Chapter 132M . The removed decorations will be destroyed or discarded .
What are the statutory provisions in Chapter 132M?
The Cremation and Gardens of Remembrance Regulation states that remains will not be accepted for cremation in a government crematorium if the coffin (a) contains metal fittings that the Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene considers unsuitable for cremation; (b) has crosspieces or wedges underneath; or (c) contains sawdust, charcoal, pitch, tar, raw cotton, metal or other items or substances that the Director considers unsuitable for burning.
Why does the Government regulate so many details of coffins?
The government has strict controls on the exhaust gases emitted by crematoriums. Improper coffins and internal items will affect the operation of the cremator and may pollute the air . The average cremation time in Hong Kong public crematoria is 2.5 hours . Improper materials will slow down combustion and increase emissions.
Should the deceased’s name be written on the coffin?
Want. Coffins used for cremation must list the name of the deceased to ensure correct identification and to comply with the crematorium verification procedures. This is handled by a licensed undertaker.
Can an eco-friendly cardboard coffin safely support the weight?
Yes. FEHD requires environmentally friendly coffins to have a load-bearing capacity of not less than 150 kilograms and not to be significantly deformed due to load. However, the Consumer Council found that the claimed load-bearing capacity on the market ranges from about 114 kg to 200 kg , and some service providers claim the load-bearing capacity is less than 150 kg , so it must be stated in writing.
What are the material specifications for environmentally friendly coffins?
The main structure must be made of cardboard or similar paper materials , free of chlorides, plastics and metals ( except steel screws and U-shaped nails ); Water-impermeable both inside and outside ; must be painted with water-soluble non-toxic paint ; The load-bearing capacity is not less than 150 kg.
Are eco-friendly coffins always cheaper?
Not necessarily. Consumer Council survey: The package price of environmentally friendly coffins is about $3,000–$30,000, and the price of “square boxes” of miscellaneous wood is about $3,000–$35,000; among 12 service providers 6 environmentally friendly coffins are flatter than square boxes $400–$5,700 , 3 rooms with the same price . Insufficient price incentives are one of the main reasons for low usage.
How many people in Hong Kong use environmentally friendly coffins?
On the low side. FEHD figures show that of the total number of cremations from 2012 to 2021, environmentally friendly coffins accounted for only 1.1% to 4.55% . The Consumer Council has suggested that the government provide incentives such as discounts on cremation fees .
How to choose between Chinese coffins and Western coffins?
Mainly look at religion. Taoism, Buddhism and traditional folk ceremonies mostly use Chinese style; Catholic or Christian family members mostly choose Western style . Also look at the burial method: Western-style miscellaneous wood is mostly used for cremation and is cheaper Teak, oak, and copper coffins are mostly used for burial .
What should I pay attention to when using a coffin for burial?
You can choose thicker and rot-resistant wood, but you must remember that public cemeteries must be exhumed after six years. Coffins are not stored for a long time, and excessive budget may not be practical. Private cemeteries are divided into two types: permanent and periodic exhumation. Determine the nature of the burial site before ordering a coffin .
What is the approximate price range for coffins?
Chinese-style coffins start at around a few thousand dollars, while premium timber such as Longchuan fir can cost over a million dollars. Western-style coffins range from around $6,000 to over a million dollars. Consumer Council package-price references are $3,000–$34,000 for eco-friendly coffins, $4,000–$34,000 for mixed-wood tapered coffins, and $3,000–$35,000 for mixed-wood rectangular coffins. Some packages include rental of a specified funeral parlour room or hall.
Can funerary objects be placed in the coffin?
should be minimized. It is not appropriate to place metal or plastic objects and valuable funerary objects ; Chapter 132M also states that the remains containing sawdust, charcoal, asphalt, asphalt, raw cotton, metal, etc. will not be accepted for cremation. It is recommended to take back the gold and jade articles as souvenirs and use paper offerings instead .
What if the deceased had a pacemaker?
Medical implants are metal devices and must be disposed of before burial . The crematorium and undertaker must be truthfully informed when booking the cremation time. Please be sure to inform us in advance so that arrangements can be made.
What if the deceased needs a larger coffin?
Accepted dimensions and weight limits vary slightly between crematoria. Confirm the size, load capacity and suitable cremator with the undertaker and crematorium before booking, to avoid problems on the funeral day.
When will the coffin be ordered? How soon will it arrive?
Generally, it can be implemented after the death is registered, the burial method is determined, and the location of the mourning hall is set up. Many longevity stores in Hong Kong stock Chinese and Western-style coffins; however, environmentally friendly cardboard coffin is generally out of stock. To special order , you need to reserve a long time.
Should we choose coffins, burial clothing, and paper offerings at the same time?
It’s best to consider them together. The style of the burial clothing and quilts must be coordinated with the interior of the coffin, The scale of paper offerings must also match the ceremony specifications; if an incense-free columbarium or memorial garden is used, the burning paper offerings must also be adjusted.
The body of the deceased is to be transported out of Hong Kong. Are there any special requirements for the coffin?
In addition to a Permit for Removal of Dead Body from Hong Kong (Form 9), the destination, airline or land border crossing may have its own requirements for sealing, embalming and outer packaging. There is no single universal standard. Confirm these requirements before ordering a coffin. See Repatriation of Remains.
What are the consequences if the coffin does not comply with regulations?
Under Cap. 132M, FEHD may remove all external fittings before cremation; removed items will be destroyed or discarded. In serious cases, the coffin and remains may not be accepted for cremation at a government crematorium. The family must make alternative arrangements, potentially affecting the booked session. Changing a booking requires FEHB 264, and fees already paid are non-refundable.
Free professional advice
As for the coffin, many family members have to make an immediate decision at their heaviest and saddest moment. We suggest not to decide based on price or style alone. At the very least, you should ask clearly what the size, material, and load-bearing capacity are included in the quotation . We can list these four things in writing on the spot.
Tim Fat Funeral is a FEHD licensed undertaker. The store is located in G/F, 26 Baker Street, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong . It is at the core of the traditional longevity shop street in Hung Hom. It serves Hung Hom, To Kwa Wan, Kowloon City, Ho Man Tin, Whampoa, Yau Tsim Mong and Wong Tai Sin. It also undertakes cases from all districts in Hong Kong and cross-border cases. Mr Wu answers calls 24 hours a day.
Quick tour of related pages
The codes, legal provisions and specifications for cremation coffins quoted on this page are compiled from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) "Code for Cremation Coffins", the "Cremation and Gardens of Remembrance Regulation" (Chapter 132M of the Laws of Hong Kong), FEHD's specification requirements for licensed undertakers' environmentally friendly coffins, and the Consumer Council's Funeral Service Charges Survey and Environmentally Friendly Coffins Research. The price is a market reference range, and government regulations and market conditions may be revised from time to time. For actual information, please refer to the latest official announcement and written quotation, or call us for free enquiry.
