Funeral supplies developed as a distinct American industry in the 19th century. In those early days, funeral supplies were mostly limited to coffins and caskets made by just a few well-known manufacturers. Today, however, casket manufacturers in the United States number in the thousands. The term "funeral supplies" refers to a wide array of products ranging from burial garments to biodegradable urns.

Funeral directors have the challenge to find quality funeral supplies and accurate funeral supplies information from reputable sources. Part of their job is to purchase the separate items that are now synonymous with funeral services. Becoming aware of online sources for funeral supplies simplifies your purchase ordering:

1. Order standard and personalized stationary from wholesale funeral supplies providers.

2. Locate top of the line caskets made by the most recognized funeral supplies manufacturers.

3. Find a funeral supplies provider who offers a large selection of artistically designed chapel equipment.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check funeral supplies product catalogs for personalized prayer and acknowledgement cards

Personalized stationary adds just the right finishing touches to the funeral production.

I recommend: Funeral Supply Outlet Wholesale has an extensive stationary funeral supplies list of products for any provider in the United States. The company will also match any of its competitors' prices. Michigan based Hilton Funeral Supply has been selling high quality printed items since 1990, many of which are also available in laminated form.

Order well-crafted caskets from an industry leader in the funeral supplies market

Don't skimp on quality when ordering the single most noticeable item at any funeral.

I recommend: Family-owned Heartland Casket, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has been providing premium caskets at affordable prices to funeral directors for more than 25 years. Its online catalog displays a wide selection of wood, metal and cloth-covered caskets. For more than 70 years, Henry Schwab has been setting industry standards by consistently offering funeral supplies of exceptional quality backed by customer service you can depend on.

Browse online catalogs from funeral supplies manufacturers to select the perfect chapel equipment

The right chapel equipment lets you set an appropriate mood for the funeral.

I recommend: Vischer Funeral Supplies, serving the funeral industry for more than 20 years, offers chapel equipment with classic, colonial, provincial and Queen Anne designs. Since 1962, Michigan- based Holland Supply has manufactured a complete line of chapel supplies and equipment. Get more information on Holland's devotional chapel sets by speaking with an experienced customer representative.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure any funeral supplies company you deal with is a member of the Casket & Funeral Association of America.
• •  As you contact each manufacturer and supplier, create your own funeral supplies directory that identifies each company's particular business focus.