Understanding exactly what happens during the cremation process can bring meaningful comfort to families facing a loss. Trusted Cremations in Schaumburg, Illinois, believes in full transparency — here is a clear, step-by-step explanation of how cremation works from your first call to the return of your loved one’s remains.
Step 1: The First Call
Contact Trusted Cremations at (847) 404-2016 — available 24/7. Our staff gathers basic information and dispatches our care team.
Step 2: Transfer and Transportation
Our care team arrives at the place of death — home, hospital, hospice, or care facility — and transports your loved one to our Schaumburg facility. Transportation within 50 miles is included in the package price.
Step 3: Identification and Documentation
A durable metal identification tag is placed with your loved one and remains with them throughout the entire process — through cremation and with the returned remains. Our staff handles all documentation: death certificate preparation and filing, cremation authorization forms signed by the legal next of kin, and all Illinois-required permits.
Step 4: Shelter and Care
Your loved one is sheltered in our temperature-controlled facility until all permits and authorizations are in place. Illinois law requires all documentation be complete before cremation can proceed.
Step 5: The Cremation
The cremation chamber (retort) is preheated to approximately 1,400–1,800°F. The process typically takes two to three hours. For families choosing our Flameless Cremation Package ($1,700), water-based alkaline hydrolysis is used instead — a gentler, greener option.
Step 6: Processing the Remains
After cooling, metal items such as surgical implants are separated and responsibly disposed of. The remaining bone material is carefully processed into a fine, uniform powder.
Step 7: Return of Remains
Cremated remains are placed in a wooden urn and returned with ten (10) certified death certificate copies. Most families receive remains within 7–14 days of the date of death.
Is the Process Safe and Regulated?
Yes. Cremation in Illinois is regulated by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Trusted Cremations is fully licensed and follows strict chain-of-custody protocols and FTC Funeral Rule compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is more than one person ever cremated at the same time?
No. Illinois law prohibits the cremation of more than one person at a time in a single chamber.
Can I be present during the cremation?
Yes. We offer a witnessing service ($450). Up to 50 attendees may be present during a 30-minute window.
Questions? Contact Trusted Cremations
Call (847) 404-2016 any time. 1821 Walden Office Square, Suite #400, Schaumburg, IL 60173.