Essential Equipment for Dignified Remains Management
Morgue storage trays are specialized platforms designed to hold, transport, and store human remains in morgue facilities, funeral homes, and medical examiners' offices. Here's what you need to know:
| Morgue Storage Tray Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Common Materials | Stainless steel, fiberglass, plastic, archival board |
| Standard Dimensions | 78-82" length × 23-32" width × 1.5-3.6" height |
| Weight Capacity | 300-750 lbs depending on material and gauge |
| Price Range | $9.45 (archival) to $605+ (stainless steel) |
| Key Features | Hand slots, drain holes, marine edges, reinforced corners |
Morgue storage trays serve as the foundation of proper remains handling systems, providing a secure platform that maintains dignity while facilitating essential workflows in mortuary operations. These specialized trays aren't just simple platforms – they're engineered to integrate with refrigeration units, storage racks, and lifting systems while meeting strict hygiene and safety requirements.
Unlike ordinary stretchers or gurneys, these trays are designed specifically for the unique needs of postmortem care, with features like fluid containment edges, compatibility with cold storage, and materials that withstand rigorous sanitation protocols.
I'm Mortuary Cooler, a national-level supplier of morgue equipment including specialized morgue storage trays designed for funeral homes across America. With decades of experience designing and manufacturing mortuary cooling and storage systems, I've helped hundreds of facilities select the right tray solutions for their specific operational needs.
Find more about Morgue Storage Tray:
Morgue Storage Tray Basics: Definition & Core Functions
When it comes to dignified remains handling, the morgue storage tray is truly the unsung hero of the mortuary world. These aren't just simple platforms – they're carefully engineered solutions that support the entire workflow of postmortem care.
A morgue storage tray serves as the foundation for respectful remains management. Think of it as home base for the deceased from intake through final preparation. These specialized trays create a secure, stable platform that maintains dignity while meeting strict practical requirements.
The heart of any morgue storage tray lies in its five essential functions. First, it provides crucial preservation support, creating a stable platform during refrigeration that helps maintain the integrity of remains. Second, it enables safe transportation between different areas of your facility – from intake to storage to preparation rooms – all while minimizing handling.
Third, and particularly important for sanitation, these trays offer hygienic containment through features like marine edges and strategic drain holes that manage fluids and reduce cross-contamination risks. Fourth, they're designed for seamless workflow integration with your refrigeration units, storage racks, and lifting devices. Finally, they ensure regulatory compliance with health department and OSHA requirements through materials that withstand rigorous sanitization protocols.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've seen how the right tray transforms a facility's operations – creating efficiency while maintaining the highest standards of respect and care.
Stainless Steel Morgue Storage Tray Overview
When durability meets dignity, you get the stainless steel morgue storage tray – the gold standard in most professional facilities. We craft ours from premium 14-18 gauge stainless steel (remember, lower gauge numbers mean thicker, stronger material).
These workhorses offer impressive weight capacity, ranging from 300 pounds for our standard 23-inch wide trays (18 gauge) to a robust 500 pounds for our 30-inch models (14 gauge). The Type 304 stainless steel with #4 finish provides excellent resistance to cleaning chemicals and bodily fluids – something you'll appreciate during years of service.
With proper maintenance, expect 10+ years of reliable use. The non-porous surface allows for thorough disinfection between cases, while smoothly finished inside corners and rolled edges make cleaning easier and handling safer for your staff.
As one of our medical examiner customers in Dallas told us: "We've been using the same set of stainless trays for over eight years now. They've held up to thousands of cases and still look almost new after proper cleaning."
Fiberglass Morgue Storage Tray Overview
For specialized applications, our fiberglass morgue storage trays offer distinct advantages that many facilities find invaluable.
The standout benefit? Complete X-ray compatibility. Unlike metal alternatives, fiberglass allows for radiographic examination without transferring remains – preserving dignity and saving precious time. They're also significantly lighter than stainless steel (typically 40-60% lighter) while still supporting impressive loads up to 500 pounds.
The thoughtfully designed ribbed bases promote efficient drainage and fluid management, while the material maintains structural integrity in both refrigerated and room temperature environments. For budget-conscious facilities, they generally cost less than comparable stainless models without sacrificing essential functionality.
A forensic technician customer from Atlanta shared: "The X-ray compatibility of our fiberglass trays has been a game-changer for our workflow. We can perform preliminary radiographic examinations without disturbing the remains, which preserves evidence integrity and saves significant time."
Material Comparison: Stainless Steel vs Fiberglass vs Plastic vs Archival Board
Choosing the right morgue storage tray material is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your facility. Each material offers distinct advantages that can significantly impact your daily operations, budget, and long-term satisfaction.
Let's explore what makes each option unique and which might be the perfect fit for your specific needs. For an even deeper dive into selection criteria, check out our In-Depth Guide to Choosing the Best Cooler Trays.
Stainless Steel Morgue Storage Tray
When it comes to durability and professional standards, nothing beats stainless steel. These morgue storage trays are the workhorses of busy facilities.
Made from 14-18 gauge Type 304 stainless steel with a smooth #4 finish, these trays feature thoughtful design elements like marine edges that contain fluids and prevent spills. The hand slots are precisely positioned for balanced lifting, while seamless welds eliminate crevices where contaminants might hide.
One funeral director from Columbia shared with me, "The stainless trays we ordered from American Mortuary Coolers still look brand new after five years of daily use. Worth every penny for the peace of mind alone."
The benefits are substantial – exceptional durability that often exceeds 10 years, impressive weight capacity between 300-500 pounds (standard models), and best chemical resistance. These trays can even withstand autoclave sterilization when needed.
The only downsides? They're heavier (typically 30-45 pounds empty), can feel cold to the touch in refrigerated environments, and represent a higher initial investment starting around $605. They're also not compatible with X-ray procedures – something to consider if radiographic examination is part of your workflow.
Fiberglass & Plastic Morgue Storage Tray
For facilities looking to balance durability with lighter weight and X-ray compatibility, our fiberglass and high-impact plastic morgue storage trays offer compelling advantages.
Fiberglass trays are crafted from reinforced polyester resin with a smooth gelcoat finish, while our plastic options use high-density polyethylene or polypropylene. Both feature clever drainage ribs that channel fluids toward drain holes and molded hand grips that make transportation safer and more comfortable.
"The lightweight nature of these trays has literally saved our backs," a Chicago medical examiner told me recently. "And being able to perform X-rays without transferring remains has streamlined our intake process considerably."
At 15-25 pounds empty, these trays are significantly lighter than their stainless counterparts while still supporting up to 500 pounds. They're also warmer to the touch in cold environments and resist dents and dings that might damage metal trays. With prices typically between $300-450, they represent a middle-ground investment with a respectable 5-8 year lifespan.
The main limitations? They can't withstand autoclave sterilization, may absorb stains over time, and offer fewer customization options than stainless steel models.
Archival Skeletal Remains Tray
For specialized applications – particularly in museums, universities, and forensic anthropology labs – archival morgue storage trays provide unique benefits focused on preservation rather than clinical utility.
These lightweight trays (under 2 pounds) are constructed from acid-free, lignin-free E-flute corrugated board with a neutral-to-alkaline pH of 8.0-9.5. The metal-edged sides add structural integrity, while the buffered material prevents degradation of skeletal remains over decades of storage.
A professor from a northeastern university who uses our products shared, "These archival trays have been ideal for our forensic anthropology program. They provide organized, acid-free storage for our teaching collection while maintaining proper preservation standards."
The most budget-friendly option by far (starting around $9.45 per tray), these archival trays also boast environmental friendliness and P.A.T. certification. Many labs appreciate that they're easily customizable for specific skeletal elements and stackable for efficient storage.
Skeletal remains storage trays represent the standard in this category, with complete skeletal remains storage kits available for around $152.89.
Of course, these specialized trays have clear limitations – they're only suitable for dry skeletal remains (no fluid management), have lower weight capacity (typically under 50 pounds), and require climate-controlled storage. They're definitely not intended for clinical or autopsy environments.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we're happy to discuss which material makes the most sense for your specific facility. The right choice ultimately depends on your budget, daily workflow, and long-term storage needs – and we're here to help you steer those considerations with care.
Sizing & Capacity Guide: Dimensions, Weight Ratings & Equipment Compatibility
Finding the perfect morgue storage tray isn't just about material—size matters tremendously. The right dimensions ensure your trays work seamlessly with your existing equipment while meeting your facility's unique needs.
Most facilities find their sweet spot with standard dimensions: 78-82 inches long, 23-32 inches wide, and 1.5-3.6 inches high. These measurements accommodate most adult remains while fitting nicely into standard refrigeration units and storage racks.
Weight capacity varies dramatically depending on what your trays are made from. A standard 18-gauge stainless steel tray at 23 inches wide typically handles around 300 pounds, while beefier 14-gauge models at 30 inches can support a full 500 pounds. Our bariatric options go even further—supporting up to 750 pounds for specialized needs.
One funeral director from Pittsburgh shared a cautionary tale with us: "We rushed our order without measuring our existing racks first. Had to return everything and start over. Trust me—measure twice, order once!" It's advice we've passed along to hundreds of customers since.
Integrating Trays with Racks and Coolers
Your morgue storage trays need to play nice with your entire storage system. Different rack styles have specific requirements:
Roller racks need trays with flat, reinforced bottoms and come in both side-loading and end-loading styles. Cantilever racks support trays from the sides, so your trays need adequate rigidity to prevent sagging.
Most commercial refrigeration units accommodate standard tray dimensions, but it's always worth double-checking compatibility before placing an order. Similarly, any lift systems—whether hydraulic, electric, or manual—must be rated to handle the combined weight of both the tray and remains.
The racks themselves represent a significant investment in your facility infrastructure. Basic mortuary storage rack systems typically run $955-$999.95, while premium multi-tier systems can reach $4,381.95 for high-capacity models.
Want to dive deeper into rack options? Our guide on Cold Storage 101: Morgue Freezer Racks Explained covers everything you need to know.
Bariatric Morgue Storage Tray Considerations
America's changing demographics mean many facilities now require specialized bariatric options. These extra-wide trays (typically 30-32 inches compared to standard 23-27 inches) feature reinforced construction, usually from heavy 14-gauge stainless steel with additional structural supports underneath.
These specialized trays can handle 750 pounds or more but may require specialized racks and wider refrigeration units. While they typically cost 25-40% more than standard trays, they're increasingly seen as essential equipment.
A medical examiner from Dallas told us, "Having at least two bariatric trays has become non-negotiable for our facility. It's both about showing respect for everyone in our care and protecting our staff from injury risk." It's a sentiment we hear more often every year.
For facilities looking to make the most of limited space, check out our practical guide on Optimizing Body Cooler Storage Efficiency.
Custom Features, Safety, and Hygiene Protocols
When it comes to morgue storage trays, the details really do matter. Today's modern trays aren't just basic platforms – they include thoughtful features designed with both dignity and practicality in mind.
Optional Features
The beauty of today's morgue storage trays is how they can be customized to fit your facility's specific needs. Most trays come with ergonomic hand slots that give staff a secure grip during transport, though some facilities prefer smooth edges for certain applications.
Drain holes with removable plugs are a popular option, typically positioned at one end of the tray to help manage fluids. As one pathologist from our Los Angeles location shared with us: "We specifically ordered trays with drain holes for our autopsy room, but preferred trays without them for general storage to minimize leakage risks in our refrigeration units."
The marine lips or raised edges around the perimeter are another thoughtful feature, containing fluids within the tray with heights ranging from half an inch to two inches. For facilities that conduct radiographic examinations, X-ray slide guides on fiberglass and plastic models allow imaging without transferring remains – a real time-saver.
Don't overlook the importance of reinforced edges and corners that prevent warping under weight, or the ribbed platforms that promote drainage and reduce direct surface contact with remains – small details that make a big difference in daily operations.
Cleaning & Maintenance Checklist
Keeping your morgue storage trays properly sanitized isn't just about infection control – it also extends the life of your equipment. We recommend establishing a regular maintenance schedule:
After each use, start with removing visible debris using disposable towels. Apply an EPA-registered disinfectant appropriate for your tray material, allowing proper contact time according to the manufacturer's instructions. Rinse thoroughly if required and let the tray air dry completely before using it again.
Monthly, take time to inspect welds and seams for integrity, check hand slots for any sharp edges or wear, examine drain plugs to ensure they're functioning properly, and verify the tray's structural integrity.
Once a year, conduct load testing to confirm weight capacity remains within specifications, evaluate overall condition, review compatibility with your current storage systems, and update your inventory and replacement schedule.
One of our New York clients shared a brilliant tip: "We implement a color-coded system in our facility. Green tags indicate freshly sanitized trays ready for use, while red tags mark trays awaiting cleaning. This simple system has eliminated confusion and improved our infection control practices."
Safety & Respectful Handling Best Practices
Handling morgue storage trays properly ensures both staff safety and maintains dignity for the deceased – two priorities that should never be compromised.
When it comes to ergonomic considerations, always use proper lifting techniques and involve two staff members for transporting loaded trays whenever possible. Consider mechanical assistance like lifts or trolleys for heavier loads, and always ensure pathways are clear before beginning transport.
Identification and tracking systems prevent mix-ups and maintain proper chain of custody. Implement consistent labeling protocols, secure identification to both the remains and the tray, and maintain thorough documentation. Larger facilities might benefit from barcode or RFID systems for tracking.
Infection control remains paramount – always wear appropriate PPE when handling trays, treat all fluids as potentially infectious, follow established decontamination protocols between uses, and store clean trays in designated areas separate from soiled equipment.
Finally, respectful practices should guide every interaction. Cover remains during transport in public areas, minimize unnecessary transfers between trays, handle equipment quietly and with dignity, and always maintain an appropriate demeanor around the deceased.
For more detailed guidance on safe handling procedures, check out our Detailed Guide to Body Storage Racks.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we understand that the equipment you choose reflects your commitment to dignified care. That's why we're always available to discuss custom features that might benefit your specific facility needs.
Pricing, Suppliers & Selection Checklist (with FAQs)
Let's talk money – because while quality matters, we all have budgets to consider when shopping for morgue storage trays. Finding that sweet spot between affordability and functionality is key to making a smart investment for your facility.
How Much Does a Morgue Storage Tray Cost?
The price range for morgue storage trays is surprisingly wide – from under $10 for basic archival options to well over $1,000 for specialized bariatric models. Let me break this down into practical categories:
On the budget-friendly end, archival board trays start at just $9.45, making them perfect for skeletal remains or educational settings. Moving up, basic plastic trays typically run $250-$350, while economy stainless steel models fall in the $450-$550 range.
For mid-range options that balance quality and cost, consider standard stainless steel trays at $605-$700 or fiberglass models with X-ray capability for $350-$450. Many of our customers find these hit the sweet spot for everyday use.
Premium options include heavy-gauge stainless steel ($700-$900) and bariatric models ($800-$1,100) designed for exceptional durability and higher weight capacities.
Don't forget to factor in potential savings through quantity discounts – we typically offer 10-15% off when you order five or more trays. However, shipping can add $50-$200 depending on your location, and any customization might add another $50-$150 per tray.
As one of our funeral director clients from Tennessee put it: "We initially balked at the higher price tags, but after wearing out cheaper trays every few years, we realized the premium models actually saved us money in the long run. It's truly a case of 'buy once, cry once.'"
Leading Manufacturers & Custom Orders
When it comes to quality morgue storage trays, American Mortuary Coolers has established a solid reputation in the industry. We're proud to be a leading manufacturer of high-quality mortuary equipment designed specifically for the needs of modern facilities.
What sets us apart is our focus on customization. Have an unusual space constraint? Need a specific combination of features? We can help. Our custom options include:
Custom dimensions custom to your unique storage systems – because we know not every facility follows standard measurements. We can adjust the material gauge to find your ideal balance between weight, strength, and budget. We can also configure drain holes, hand slots, and other features exactly where you need them.
Some facilities even request branding with their name or logo, while others appreciate color-coded options for plastic and fiberglass trays to indicate special handling protocols.
Based in Tennessee, we ship directly to facilities across all 48 contiguous states. Our regional representatives in major cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Los Angeles ensure you get personalized service regardless of your location.
A medical examiner from Colorado recently shared: "When our decade-old cold storage system needed compatible trays that aren't made anymore, American Mortuary Coolers designed custom replacements that fit perfectly. Their willingness to solve our specific problem saved us from having to replace the entire system."
Frequently Asked Questions about Morgue Storage Trays
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a stainless steel morgue tray?
With proper care, stainless steel morgue storage trays typically serve faithfully for 10-15 years of regular use. We've even had customers report 20+ years from premium models with careful handling. The initial investment pays dividends through years of reliable service.
Q: Are drain holes necessary?
This depends entirely on your specific workflow. Drain holes are invaluable for autopsy applications and situations where managing fluids is priority one. However, many facilities prefer solid trays for general cold storage to prevent potential leakage inside refrigeration units. There's no universal right answer – it's about what works for your particular needs.
Q: How do I ensure my new trays will fit my existing rack system?
This is where a tape measure becomes your best friend! Measure your current rack system carefully, noting the clear width between supports, maximum length accommodation, vertical clearance between tiers, and the type of load-bearing mechanism (rollers, cantilever supports, etc.). Share these specifics with us, and we'll ensure your new trays slide in perfectly on day one.
Q: What cleaning agents are safe to use on different tray materials?
Material-appropriate cleaning is crucial for longevity. For stainless steel, most EPA-registered disinfectants work well, though it's best to avoid long-term use of chloride-containing products. Fiberglass plays nicely with phenolic disinfectants or quaternary ammonium compounds but can be damaged by abrasive cleaners. Plastic trays generally handle quaternary ammonium compounds well but may deteriorate with phenolics. Archival board should only be gently dusted as it's not designed for wet cleaning.
Q: Do morgue trays meet OSHA and CDC requirements?
Quality morgue storage trays from reputable manufacturers like us are specifically designed to meet OSHA requirements for safe handling and CDC guidelines for infection control. We're happy to provide documentation of compliance for your facility's records – just ask!
Q: Can I retrofit drain holes to existing trays?
For stainless steel trays, qualified fabricators can add retrofit drain holes, though this modification may affect the warranty. Unfortunately, plastic and fiberglass trays generally can't be modified after manufacturing without compromising their structural integrity. If your needs have changed, it's usually better to invest in new trays with the features you now require.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect morgue storage tray isn't just about picking a piece of equipment – it's about finding a solution that honors the deceased while supporting your team's daily workflow. After exploring all the options, you're now equipped to make an informed decision that balances practicality, dignity, and budget.
Let's recap what matters most when selecting your facility's trays:
First and foremost, material choice significantly impacts how your trays will perform over time. Stainless steel remains the gold standard for durability and sanitation, though it comes with a higher price tag. Fiberglass and plastic offer that valuable X-ray compatibility many facilities need, along with being easier on staff backs during transport. For those specialized anthropology collections, archival board trays provide the perfect preservation environment.
Sizing and compatibility can make or break your equipment investment. There's nothing more frustrating than receiving new trays only to find they don't quite fit your existing racks or coolers. Taking careful measurements before ordering saves headaches and unnecessary shipping costs later.
The features you select should reflect your specific workflows. Those drain holes might be essential for your autopsy room but potentially problematic in general cold storage. Hand slots positioned just right can prevent staff strain during transfers, while reinforced edges protect your investment from inevitable bumps along the way.
When considering costs, think beyond the initial price tag to the total investment over time. That premium stainless steel tray might seem expensive today, but when it's still serving your facility a decade from now while the budget options have been replaced multiple times, the math often favors quality.
Above all, safety and compliance must drive your decision. The right trays support proper infection control protocols, ergonomic handling, and meet all regulatory requirements that govern your facility.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we've guided hundreds of funeral homes, medical examiners' offices, and pathology departments through this exact decision process. We understand that every facility has unique needs – that's why we don't just sell products; we provide solutions custom to your specific situation.
Our Tennessee manufacturing facility allows us to create custom configurations when standard options won't quite work, and our nationwide network of representatives ensures you'll have personalized support regardless of your location. From initial consultation through delivery and beyond, we're committed to ensuring you have exactly the equipment your facility needs.
Want to explore our complete range of mortuary solutions? Visit our More on our morgue cooler & tray systems resource page to find how we can support your facility's mission of providing dignified care with practical equipment designed for real-world use.