How to Move a Grave to Another Cemetery: Step-by-Step Guide

When a loved one is buried far from family, or a cemetery becomes overcrowded or disrupted, families sometimes consider moving the grave to a new location. While relocating human remains may sound unusual, it’s more common and achievable than many people realize.

Moving a grave is a deeply personal decision. Here’s what to know about navigating the process thoughtfully and legally.

Can a Grave Be Moved?

First things first: can you legally move a grave? Yes, but the process must follow state, local, and cemetery regulations. Because relocating a grave involves exhuming human remains, it requires careful planning, approvals, and professional assistance.

Reasons Families May Move a Grave

• Relocating the Family: Bringing the deceased closer to where the family now lives.
• Reuniting Loved Ones: Placing the deceased in a shared family plot
• Avoiding Cemetery Overcrowding or Closure: Choosing a site with long-term care and access
• Correcting Historical Records: Moving a lost or misidentified grave
• Connecting Generations: Relocating the grave to be near newly discovered ancestors

How Much Does It Cost to Move a Grave?

Several factors influence the total cost of relocating a grave, which typically ranges from $8,000 to $20,000:

• Distance of the Move: Costs rise for out-of-state or international transfers due to added transportation and coordination.
• Cemetery and Permit Fees: These expenses include exhumation, grave preparation, new plot purchase, vault, memorial marker, and required legal permits.
• Funeral Director Services: Most states and countries require a licensed funeral director to manage paperwork, coordinate logistics, and oversee the transfer.
• Transportation Arrangements: These costs include a hearse or long-distance carrier to move the remains respectfully.
• New Burial Expenses: Costs of reinterment and a replacement casket, if needed, at the receiving cemetery.

Step-by-Step: How to Move a Grave

1. Contact a Funeral Home 

Start by contacting a funeral director or cemetery offering grave relocation services. Most states legally require a licensed professional to oversee parts of the process. A knowledgeable guide can simplify a complex process and ensure a respectful, lawful transfer. 

A funeral director can: 

• Explain your legal responsibilities
• Coordinate with both the current and future cemeteries
• Help obtain permits and schedule transportation

2. Apply for an Exhumation Permit

You (or the funeral director) must receive permission before any grave can be disturbed. This typically involves applying for an exhumation license from the local or state health department. You will need to provide proof that you have legal authority or next-of-kin status to move the deceased’s remains. And finally, you will need consent from the cemetery or plot owner. If the burial site is affiliated with a church or religious group, you might need permission from clergy or the institution.

3. Plan for Transportation and Reburial

Before exhumation, secure a transportation plan and confirm that the receiving cemetery is ready. This includes:

• Confirming grave plot availability at the new location.
• Booking a hearse or carrier through the funeral home.
• Ensuring new burial arrangements (headstone, vault, etc.) are ready.

4. Exhume the Body

Once approvals are in place, the cemetery where the grave currently resides will handle the exhumation. Depending on state law, a health official or funeral director may need to be present. In winter months, you may need to wait until the ground is no longer frozen to exhume the body. 

You can decide whether to attend the exhumation. Some families choose to be present for closure, while others leave it to professionals.

5. Transport to the New Cemetery

The body is transported using appropriate vehicles, typically a hearse. If a new casket is required due to damage or cemetery regulations, the funeral home handles this before the burial.

Specialized transport services are used for long-distance or cross-country moves. The funeral home coordinates logistics, timing, and any necessary paperwork. Depending on state laws and the distance traveled, an escort vehicle may be required to accompany the transport for safety and legal compliance.

6. Reburial at the New Site

The final step is placing the remains in the new plot. This typically includes:

• A new burial vault or liner (depending on local rules)
• A new or transferred headstone or grave marker
• An optional graveside service or memorial event for loved ones

Moving Cremated Remains to Another Cemetery 

Moving interred cremated remains is usually simpler than relocating a full-body burial, but still requires permission. If the ashes are buried or placed in a niche, you'll need approval from the cemetery and possibly a disinterment permit. A funeral home or cremation provider can assist with removing the urn, securing legal documents, and arranging transport to the new location. Depending on local regulations, some cemeteries may also require a new urn vault or container for reburial.

Meaningful Alternatives to Moving a Grave

Consider these thoughtful alternatives if moving a grave proves too costly or complex. These options can honor your loved one without disturbing their original resting place:

• Install a symbolic headstone or marker at a family plot, even if the body remains elsewhere.
• Create a permanent tribute listing family members at a home, park, or religious site.
• Set up an online obituary with photos and memories, accessible from anywhere. (Click here to set up a free online obituary on Afterall, no matter where your loved one is interred.)
• Plan a memorial or celebration of life that includes streaming for out-of-area family and friends. 
• Plant a memorial tree in their honor.
• Personalize a garden stone or plaque to display in your home or garden. 

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