What services are not included in a direct cremation?

Most funeral homes and crematories define “direct cremation” as a basic service in which the body of the deceased is cremated immediately after death, and the ashes are then returned directly to the family without any additional services. The body is typically not embalmed, and is cremated in a simple container instead of an expensive casket. Direct cremation does not include a viewing, visitation, or wake, or other funeral merchandise or memorial services that will typically add to the cost of the cremation. Direct cremation is the most inexpensive cremation option due to its simplicity.