All About Mortuary Body Trays: Compare Top Options
Essential Equipment for Dignified Care
Mortuary body trays are specialized platforms designed for the transport, storage, and handling of deceased individuals in funeral homes, hospitals, and medical examiner facilities.
Quick Guide to Mortuary Body Trays
| Feature | Common Specifications |
|---|---|
| Materials | 18-gauge stainless steel, 304L steel, high-impact polystyrene |
| Standard Sizes | 23", 27", and 30" widths with 78" length |
| Weight Capacity | 300-500 lbs (standard), up to 750 lbs (bariatric) |
| Key Features | Marine edges, drain holes, hand slots, roller compatibility |
| Types | Flat, curved, deep-drawn, with/without casters |
| Price Range | $605+ for standard stainless steel models |
Mortuary body trays serve as the foundation of efficient mortuary operations, providing a secure and hygienic platform for deceased individuals throughout the preparation process. These essential tools are designed with both functionality and respect in mind, ensuring dignified handling while meeting practical needs of funeral professionals.
Modern trays feature innovative designs that improve workflow efficiency while maintaining the highest standards of sanitation. From stainless steel options with marine edges to contain fluids, to lightweight polystyrene alternatives for mausoleums, today's market offers solutions for every mortuary setting.
I'm Mortuary Cooler, a national-level mortuary cooler supplier with extensive experience helping funeral directors select the right mortuary body trays for their specific facility needs and budget constraints.
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Essential Overview of Mortuary Body Trays
Mortuary body trays form the backbone of funeral care operations, providing a dignified platform for transporting, storing, and preparing those who have passed on. What began as simple wooden boards has evolved into carefully engineered solutions that honor the deceased while making the caregiver's work more efficient and respectful.
Think of these trays as the unsung heroes of mortuary science – they're the stable, sanitary foundation that supports the deceased from arrival through preparation and beyond. They seamlessly connect with coolers, racks, and preparation tables throughout the funeral home.
The evolution of mortuary body trays mirrors the advancement of mortuary science itself. Today's options balance practical functionality with the solemn duty of caring for those who have passed with the utmost respect and dignity.
Primary Function & Role in Mortuaries
When you work in a funeral home, you quickly learn that mortuary body trays do far more than just carry the deceased. These specialized platforms become essential partners in your daily workflow:
They provide rock-solid stability inside refrigeration units, keeping the deceased properly positioned and preventing any shifting during storage. They make transfers between different areas of your facility clean and dignified, reducing the need for direct handling. During preparation procedures, these trays offer a proper work surface with smart features that contain fluids where they belong.
Perhaps most importantly, well-designed trays preserve dignity by minimizing direct contact during transfers while incorporating features that help control infection risks – something that matters deeply to both families and staff.
As one funeral director with over 30 years in the profession told us, "A quality body tray is the foundation of efficient mortuary operations. Everything else builds from there." We couldn't agree more.
Common Materials & Construction
The materials used in mortuary body trays aren't chosen by accident – they're carefully selected to balance several crucial factors: durability, ease of cleaning, weight, and budget considerations.
Stainless Steel (304L) remains the gold standard for quality trays. These workhorses offer exceptional durability and resist corrosion even with frequent cleaning. Standard models typically use 18-gauge thickness, while medium-duty applications call for 16-gauge, and heavy-duty or bariatric needs require robust 14-gauge construction.
What sets premium stainless trays apart are their thoughtful construction details – ground and polished welds create seamless surfaces that prevent fluid retention and make thorough cleaning easier. Companies like NorMors AS have become specialists in perfecting these manufacturing techniques.
For mausoleum applications and budget-conscious facilities, High-Impact Polystyrene offers compelling advantages. These trays weigh significantly less than their metal counterparts, making them easier on staff during transfers. They'll never rust or corrode, cost less than metal alternatives, and can be recycled when their service life ends. Many feature grooved bottom patterns that prevent warping over time.
Some specialized applications call for Aluminum construction when you need something lighter than steel but more durable than plastic.
In our experience, construction quality makes all the difference – smoothly finished rolled corners, reinforced edges, and precision welding separate the premium products that will serve you for years from basic options that might disappoint.
Standard Sizes & Capacities
Mortuary body trays come in standardized dimensions that ensure they'll work perfectly with industry-standard coolers, racks and other equipment in your facility. The most common specifications include:
Standard Widths of 23 inches (58.4 cm), 27 inches (68.6 cm), and 30 inches (76.2 cm) accommodate different body types and facility needs. Most trays have a Standard Length of approximately 78 inches (198 cm), though some models extend to 84.5 inches (214.6 cm) for taller individuals.
The carrying capacity directly relates to the width and material thickness:
| Tray Width | Material Gauge | Weight Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 23" | 18-gauge steel | 300 lbs |
| 27" | 16-gauge steel | 400 lbs |
| 30" | 14-gauge steel | 500 lbs |
| 30"+ | Reinforced steel | Up to 750 lbs (bariatric) |
With the growing need for equipment suitable for larger individuals, specialized bariatric models now accommodate up to 750 pounds. These heavy-duty options feature additional reinforcement and thicker materials to ensure both safety and structural integrity when you need it most.
Types, Designs & Compatibility of Mortuary Body Trays
The world of mortuary body trays is surprisingly diverse, with each design serving specific needs in the funeral care journey. Whether you're setting up a new facility or upgrading your current equipment, understanding these variations helps ensure you select the right tools for your unique situation.
Sliding & Flat Tray Options for Coolers
When it comes to cooler storage, the right tray makes all the difference between smooth operations and daily frustrations. Sliding trays work hand-in-hand with roller rack systems, creating that satisfying glide that saves backs and time.
Flat body trays remain the workhorses of most facilities. Their completely flat surface provides maximum stability while their raised marine edges contain any fluids. We've found these versatile trays adapt to almost any situation, making them ideal for facilities that handle diverse needs.
For those seeking improved stability, deep-drawn trays feature a gentle depression in the center that naturally cradles the deceased. This subtle design element prevents shifting during transport while improving fluid containment – a small detail that makes a significant difference in daily operations.
Some facilities prefer curved trays with their gentle concave shape that naturally centers the body. The curve isn't just about positioning – it also improves drainage and adds structural strength without additional weight.
As we often remind our customers at American Mortuary Coolers, compatibility between trays and roller systems isn't optional – it's essential. Mismatched equipment leads to sticking, binding, and premature wear. For more detailed information on selecting the right combination, check out our guide on cooler trays.
Trays with Casters & Hand Slots for Transport
Moving between rooms shouldn't require transferring to a separate trolley. That's where transport-focused mortuary body trays shine.
Caster-equipped trays transform a static storage platform into a mobile workstation. The standard 100mm polypropylene wheels roll smoothly across most surfaces, while locking mechanisms provide stability when needed. We've seen how these trays reduce strain on staff – particularly in older facilities with uneven floors or tight corridors.
Many funeral directors tell us that hand slots are a game-changer for their teams. These ergonomically designed openings provide secure grip points for manual lifting, typically positioned at the head, foot, and sides. They're reinforced to maintain structural integrity and sized to accommodate gloved hands – a thoughtful detail that matters during daily use.
"The caster trays have revolutionized our workflow," shared one funeral director with us recently. "We've reduced staff injuries and improved efficiency dramatically." This sentiment echoes what we hear from clients across our service regions in the Southeast and Midwest.
In our experience, the combination of hand slots and casters provides the most versatile solution, especially in older buildings where doorways and corridors present daily challenges for staff.
Specialized Bariatric & Oversized Mortuary Body Trays
Today's funeral professionals face changing demographics that require specialized equipment. Mortuary body trays designed for larger individuals have become increasingly important in providing dignified care for all.
Bariatric trays are engineering marvels, built with extra-wide dimensions (typically 30+ inches) and reinforced construction using 14-gauge or heavier steel. These robust platforms handle weight capacities up to 750 pounds thanks to additional support ribs and structural elements. Many feature extra hand slots to facilitate team lifting – an important safety consideration for your staff.
For long-term storage needs, oversized mausoleum trays offer specialized solutions. According to Trigard's Mausoleum Trays specifications, these options feature generous dimensions of 85" × 30.75" overall (with interior dimensions of 84.25" × 29.75"). Their high-impact polystyrene construction balances durability with lighter weight, while nesting capability allows for efficient storage when not in use.
We've noticed increasing demand for these specialized options across our service areas, particularly in regions like Dallas TX and Chicago IL. Funeral homes are recognizing that using standard trays for bariatric needs creates unnecessary risks for staff while potentially compromising the dignity of the deceased – two compromises no professional wants to make.
Hygiene, Safety & Workflow Improvements
When it comes to mortuary body trays, the details really do matter. Modern designs aren't just about function – they're thoughtfully engineered to create safer workspaces, maintain proper hygiene, and show respect for the deceased through every step of the process.
Easy-Clean Features & Regulatory Standards
Let's face it – keeping things clean in a mortuary environment is non-negotiable. Today's mortuary body trays make this essential task much easier with smart design features.
The marine edge design is a game-changer for containment. These raised edges (typically ½" to ¾" high) create a gentle barrier around the perimeter of the tray, keeping fluids contained rather than spilling onto floors or other surfaces. The smooth, rounded corners aren't just safer for staff – they eliminate hiding spots where contaminants could linger.
Drainage solutions have come a long way too. Many trays now feature strategically placed drain holes with removable plugs at the foot end. This simple addition allows for controlled drainage that connects seamlessly with standard plumbing systems, making thorough cleaning so much more manageable.
"Switching to marine-edge trays completely transformed our sanitation protocols," shared one medical examiner we worked with. "Our staff feels safer, and we know we're maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness."
The surface finishing on quality trays deserves special attention. Ground and polished welds eliminate the tiny crevices where bacteria could collect, while satin finishes on stainless steel models not only reduce glare but also hide the inevitable minor scratches that develop over years of use.
Of course, all these features align with critical regulatory standards, including OSHA bloodborne pathogen requirements and CDC guidelines for handling the deceased. When facilities invest in properly designed mortuary body trays, they're not just buying equipment – they're creating a foundation for regulatory compliance.
Seamless Integration with Racks, Trolleys & Coolers
The true magic of well-designed mortuary body trays happens when they work in harmony with your other equipment. Think of them as the cornerstone of a well-orchestrated system.
Multi-directional roller racks represent the cutting edge of mortuary storage. These thoughtfully engineered systems allow trays to be loaded from multiple sides, typically featuring five nylon roller wheels per side for smooth movement. The inclusion of bumpers and tie bars ensures structural integrity even with daily use. For many of our clients, the ability to customize these systems to fit specific floor plans has been invaluable.
Lift compatibility is another area where modern trays shine. Whether you're using battery-powered mortuary lifts, scissor lifts for vertical transfers, or specialized hydraulic systems for bariatric cases, today's trays are designed to integrate seamlessly with these tools. This compatibility dramatically reduces the physical strain on staff – something your team will appreciate day after day.
The transition between storage and preparation areas becomes nearly effortless with trays that transfer directly to embalming stations or dissecting tables. This system-wide approach minimizes the need to move the deceased between surfaces, maintaining dignity while improving workflow efficiency.
For more insights on compatible rack systems that work beautifully with mortuary body trays, check out our guide on Rack and Roll: Top Mortuary Body Racks for Your Needs.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've seen how this holistic approach transforms daily operations for our clients from New York to Los Angeles. When we design custom solutions, we're not just thinking about individual pieces of equipment – we're envisioning how everything works together to create a respectful, efficient environment for both the deceased and those who care for them.
Purchasing, Customization & Maintenance Tips
Let's face it - choosing the right mortuary body trays isn't exactly a typical shopping experience. It's an important investment that requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure you're getting equipment that truly meets your needs.
How to Choose the Right Tray for Your Facility
When helping funeral homes select mortuary body trays, I've found that starting with a thoughtful assessment of your daily operations makes all the difference.
Begin by taking a realistic look at your capacity needs. How many cases do you typically handle each month? What about during your busiest periods? The demographics of your community matter too - if you serve an area with higher obesity rates, having at least one bariatric tray is essential rather than optional. And while we hope it never happens, having equipment that can handle mass casualty situations provides peace of mind.
Your physical space will significantly impact which trays work best. I've seen beautiful new equipment purchased only to find it won't fit through certain doorways or elevator spaces. Take measurements of your entire workflow path, including any tight corners or transitions between rooms. Pay special attention to your cooler dimensions and existing rack systems - compatibility here is non-negotiable.
When it comes to budget considerations, the cheapest option rarely offers the best value. Higher-gauge stainless steel trays cost more initially but often last twice as long as economy models. Many of our clients at American Mortuary Coolers find that ordering multiple standard trays at once provides meaningful quantity discounts that help stretch their budget. Don't forget to factor in shipping costs - these can be substantial for heavy stainless steel models, especially to remote locations.
For a deeper look at available options that might work for your specific facility, resources like JD HEALTHCARE's PARMED PRODUCTS offer valuable insights into current market offerings.
Cleaning Protocols & Longevity
Taking proper care of your mortuary body trays isn't just about maintaining a professional appearance - it's about infection control, staff safety, and maximizing your investment.
The golden rule for cleaning stainless steel trays is using neutral pH cleaners. Harsh chemicals might seem more effective for disinfection, but they can actually damage the protective surface of the steel, leading to premature corrosion issues. I always recommend avoiding abrasive scrubbing pads too - they create micro-scratches that become hiding places for bacteria and starting points for corrosion.
For thorough sanitization, nothing beats periodic steam cleaning. The combination of heat and moisture penetrates into seams and corners that might be missed during routine cleaning. Just be sure to thoroughly dry all surfaces afterward, as standing moisture is stainless steel's enemy.
Regular maintenance checks should become part of your routine. Pay special attention to welds and seams, particularly on older equipment. For trays with casters, a little lubricant on the wheels every few months keeps them rolling smoothly. And don't forget to check drain plugs - they can harden or crack over time, compromising fluid containment.
With proper care, you can expect stainless steel trays to serve your facility for 10-15 years, while polystyrene options typically last 5-7 years with regular use. I've seen smart funeral directors budget for replacing a few trays each year rather than facing the capital expense of replacing an entire fleet at once. And there's wisdom in keeping older-but-still-functional trays as backups for unexpected busy periods.
Shipping, Storage & Leading Brands
The logistics of acquiring mortuary body trays deserves more attention than it often receives. These aren't items you can simply order with two-day shipping!
Most rigid stainless steel trays ship via LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight, which requires planning for delivery. Someone will need to be present to receive the shipment, and you'll want clear access to your facility for the delivery truck. Flat-pack cremation trays and nestable polystyrene options ship more economically and can be a good choice for facilities with limited receiving capabilities.
When your trays aren't in active use, thoughtful storage solutions prevent damage and maximize space. Wall-mounted racks keep trays accessible without consuming valuable floor space. Whatever storage system you choose, make sure trays are protected from environmental factors like extreme temperature fluctuations or chemical exposure that could damage materials over time.
Several manufacturers have established solid reputations in the industry. Trigard has become known for their innovative polystyrene mausoleum trays, while PMT Scientific specializes in customizable stainless steel options. HYGECO offers comprehensive systems with multiple complementary designs, and here at American Mortuary Coolers, we focus on providing integrated solutions where all components work seamlessly together.
For facilities across the country, from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Coast, we handle the logistics of coordinating shipping to ensure your equipment arrives in perfect condition, ready to serve your community with dignity and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mortuary Body Trays
What material offers the best balance of hygiene and durability?
When it comes to mortuary body trays, finding that sweet spot between cleanliness and longevity is crucial for any funeral home or medical examiner's office. In our experience working with hundreds of facilities across the country, 304L stainless steel consistently rises to the top as the gold standard.
This hospital-grade stainless doesn't just resist corrosion when regularly exposed to bodily fluids and cleaning chemicals – it excels at it. Its non-porous surface means bacteria have nowhere to hide, while its inherent strength ensures you'll get years of reliable service before replacement becomes necessary.
Budget is always a consideration, of course. For facilities watching their pennies, 18-gauge stainless will serve you well for standard cases up to about 300 pounds. If your community demographics suggest you'll regularly handle larger individuals, stepping up to 16-gauge or 14-gauge makes good sense – you'll pay a bit more upfront but avoid premature replacement costs.
For our mausoleum clients, high-impact polystyrene trays have become increasingly popular. They're substantially lighter (your staff's backs will thank you!), completely corrosion-proof, and more budget-friendly when fluid containment isn't your primary concern.
How do I maintain marine-edge trays to prevent corrosion?
Even the best mortuary body trays need proper care to reach their full lifespan potential. Marine-edge designs, with their fluid-containing perimeter, require special attention to prevent corrosion from shortening their useful life.
After each use, give the entire tray a thorough rinse with warm water. Pay special attention to those corners and the channel created by the marine edge – that's where residue loves to hide. Using the wrong cleaning products is one of the most common mistakes we see when visiting facilities. Stick with pH-neutral detergents specifically made for stainless steel and avoid anything containing chlorine, abrasives, or highly acidic/alkaline ingredients.
Complete drying is absolutely crucial – we can't emphasize this enough. Standing moisture is corrosion's best friend, particularly in the channel formed by the marine edge, around drain holes, and in corners and seams. A quick wipe-down isn't enough; take the extra minute to ensure everything is bone dry.
Monthly inspection of welds and seams can catch small issues before they become big problems. And for trays with drain holes, regularly check that the plugs still seal properly and keep drainage channels clear of debris that might trap moisture.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've found that facilities with documented cleaning protocols tend to get significantly longer life from their equipment. A simple checklist can ensure consistent care across all staff members, regardless of experience level.
Are castered trays safe for use inside walk-in coolers?
This question comes up frequently as facilities try to streamline their workflows. The short answer is yes, castered mortuary body trays can be used inside walk-in coolers – but with some important precautions.
Safety must come first. Always engage those wheel locks once the tray is positioned where you want it. Ensure your cooler floor stays level and obstacle-free – even small debris can cause unexpected movement. Double-check that your cooler door opening can comfortably accommodate the width of castered trays, which tend to be slightly wider than standard models. And verify that both the tray and cooler shelving have compatible weight ratings.
There are some practical considerations to keep in mind. Castered trays typically stand taller than standard sliding models, which might reduce your vertical storage capacity. The temperature fluctuations inside coolers can affect wheel materials and locking mechanisms over time. And let's be honest – more movement inside the cooler increases the risk of bumping into other equipment.
For most of our clients, we recommend a hybrid approach: use castered trays primarily for transport and preparation, while relying on sliding trays for long-term storage within rack systems. This gives you the best of both worlds – maximum storage efficiency plus workflow flexibility.
One funeral director in Nashville told us, "We tried going all-casters, but ended up with a mix. The transport convenience is great, but for our cooler space, the sliding trays just make more sense for maximizing capacity."
Your facility's specific needs should drive your equipment choices. Our team at American Mortuary Coolers is always happy to discuss your particular situation and help you find the perfect balance for your operation.
Conclusion
Mortuary body trays are far more than simple platforms—they are essential tools that enable the dignified care of the deceased while protecting the health and safety of mortuary professionals. From their varied designs to specialized features, these trays form the foundation of efficient mortuary operations.
The evolution of tray design reflects the funeral industry's commitment to continuous improvement in both technical functionality and respectful handling. Features like marine edges, ergonomic hand slots, and compatibility with integrated rack systems demonstrate how thoughtful engineering improves the important work of funeral service professionals.
For facilities considering equipment upgrades or replacements, the investment in quality mortuary body trays yields returns in operational efficiency, staff safety, and the ability to provide dignified care regardless of circumstances. Customization options ensure that facilities of any size can optimize their workflow with equipment custom to their specific needs.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we understand that selecting the right equipment is about more than specifications—it's about supporting the important work you do every day. From our headquarters in Tennessee to our service regions across the contiguous 48 states, we're committed to providing durable, custom solutions that improve your ability to serve families with dignity and care.
For more information about complete mortuary solutions, including compatible coolers, racks, and accessories, visit More info about our one-stop cooler solutions.