Coffin vs Casket – When planning a funeral, one of the key decisions families face is choosing between a coffin and a casket. While both serve the same purpose, there are clear differences in their design, materials, appearance, and cost. In Australia, coffins are the more familiar choice, recognised for their traditional tapered shape. Caskets, on the other hand, offer a more rectangular and refined presentation, often used in services that include a viewing. Prices for both options can vary significantly depending on the materials used, the level of craftsmanship, and any customisation involved. Whether you are considering a simple eco-friendly option, a handcrafted timber piece, or a more formal style, understanding the differences between coffins and caskets can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your family’s wishes, values, and budget.
Coffin vs Casket Comparison Table
| Feature | Coffin | Casket |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Tapered – wider at the shoulders and narrower at the head and feet | Rectangular – uniform shape on all sides |
| Lid | Usually a simple flat or slightly raised lid | Often features a split/double lid for viewings |
| Material | Commonly made from MDF, veneer, solid timber, or cardboard | Made from MDF with veneer, solid hardwood, metal, or eco materials |
| Use in Australia | Most commonly used and widely recognised | Growing in popularity, especially for formal farewells |
| Cost Range (Standard) |
Budget coffins: $300 – $800 Traditional: $1,400 – $4,000 Premium: $5,000 – $15,000+ |
Basic casket: From $2,000 Mid to high-end: $2,500 – $10,000+ |
| Customisation | Available – themes, colours, engravings, photos | Available – personalised finishes, designs, team logos, etc. |
| Eco-Friendly Options | Cardboard or wicker coffins are biodegradable | Some caskets made from eco materials are available |
| Suitability | Often chosen for traditional services or cremations | Preferred for services with viewings or above-ground burials |
| Imported or Local | Available in both local and imported options | Commonly imported (especially metal), but local options also exist |
| Funeral Service Preference | Suited for direct cremation and traditional funerals | Favoured for formal and visually refined farewells |
What is a Coffin?
A coffin is what most Australians are familiar with. It’s shaped to follow the natural contours of the human body, meaning it’s wider around the shoulders and gradually tapers at the head and foot ends.
Coffins typically have a simple, flat lid, although some may feature a slightly raised or shaped design. They are commonly made from materials such as Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF), veneer, or solid timber, depending on preference and budget.
This traditional shape and design are often chosen for its familiarity and respectful presentation during funerals.
What is a Casket?
A casket is rectangular in shape and often features a split lid, allowing the top half to be opened for viewings. Caskets are more commonly used in the United States, but they are becoming increasingly popular in Australia, particularly among families seeking a more polished or formal farewell. They are also a preferred choice for above-ground burials.
Caskets are typically made from timber veneer over Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF), but they can also be constructed from solid metal, hardwood, or even eco-friendly materials. The design and finish of a casket tend to be more refined, which makes them a suitable option for those wanting a traditional and elegant presentation.
Casket Coffin Prices
Coffin Prices
Budget coffins typically start from around $300 to $800. These are usually made from cardboard or particle board and are commonly used for direct cremations or eco-friendly funerals. At Dwyer Family Funerals, for example, our price for a direct cremation coffin starts at $200, which is below the national average.
Traditional coffins, often used in funeral services, are usually made from MDF with a wood veneer finish. These generally range between $1,500 and $4,000. Our starting price is $1,400, slightly below the Australian average.
Premium coffins, crafted from solid timbers such as mahogany or oak, can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, especially if custom design features are included. There’s a wide variation in pricing between providers, with family-owned funeral homes often offering more cost-effective options.
Wicker coffins are part of a growing trend toward natural and biodegradable funerals. Made from woven materials like willow, bamboo, seagrass, or banana leaf, they are eco-friendly and ideal for natural burials or green cemeteries. Most wicker coffins are hand-woven, giving them a unique, artisanal quality. Prices typically range from around $1,200 to $3,000, depending on the material and design.
Keep in mind, the coffin is often one of the most significant costs within a funeral service, so understanding the options and pricing can help in making the right choice for your family and budget.
Casket Prices
A basic casket in Australia typically starts at around $2,000. As you move into the mid to high-end range, prices increase significantly depending on features such as plush interiors, split lids, polished finishes, and metal construction. These premium models can cost upwards of $10,000.
The average cost of a casket in Australia generally sits around the mid-$2,000 range, though this can vary depending on where it is purchased and the style chosen.
At Dwyer Family Funerals, we always aim to provide affordable and respectful options. Based on our experience, around 95 percent of the families who choose our services select a casket in the price range of $1,500 to $1,700. This reflects our commitment to offering quality without unnecessary expense.
Ultimately, the choice of casket comes down to personal preference, budget, and the type of farewell being planned.
Another factor that can affect the overall price of a coffin or casket is customisation. Personalised features such as engravings, specific colours, or themed designs can increase the cost. These custom options are becoming increasingly popular, as many families want something that reflects the personality and passions of their loved one.
For example, you might choose a horse-themed design, a floral pattern, a favourite football team, or even add personal photographs to the outside of the coffin. These are bespoke, made-to-order designs that can create a truly meaningful farewell.
While custom-made options are tailored to suit individual preferences, it does not always mean they are overly expensive. Your funeral director usually has connections with a range of suppliers across Australia who can provide custom designs at reasonable prices.
Whether you choose a coffin or a casket, the most important thing is that it honours the wishes of your loved one and fits within your budget. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or even compare options. Your funeral director is there to guide you and help ensure your choice is right for your family’s needs.
Locally Made and Imported Coffins and Caskets
Some coffins and caskets, particularly metal ones, are imported, most commonly from the United States. At Dwyer Family Funerals, we offer a wide range that includes both locally made and imported options. This means we can cater to different personal preferences and budgets.
It’s always worth asking your funeral director about where the coffin or casket is made and what choices are available. Planning ahead can also make a significant difference. If you’re considering prepaying for a coffin or casket at today’s price, it could save you and your family thousands of dollars in the future.
Preparing in advance not only brings peace of mind but also helps to relieve financial and emotional stress down the track.
Casket or Coffin
If you’re planning a funeral that includes a viewing, a casket with a split or double lid is usually the more appropriate choice. However, if you’re organising a direct cremation without a formal service, a cardboard coffin is a practical and affordable option.
The decision often comes down to personal choice, cultural traditions, and the type of service being held. Some people prefer the traditional shape of a coffin, while others are drawn to the refined appearance of a casket. At the end of the day, what matters most is that the choice reflects the wishes of your loved one and suits your family’s values and budget. Your funeral director can help guide you through the options and answer any questions you may have.