What Funeral Home Equipment Do You Really Need? (Quick Answer)
If you’re searching for funeral home equipment, here are the essentials most funeral directors should prioritize:
| Equipment Type | Must-Have Examples |
|---|---|
| Removal & Transfer | Mortuary cots, stretchers, church trucks |
| Prep-Room | Embalming tables, body lifts, PortiBoy machines |
| Refrigeration & Storage | Mortuary coolers, roller racks, body trays |
| Chapel, Cemetery & Vehicles | Casket lifts, bier pins, vase blocks, tents |
| Cremation & Memorial | Cremation urns, keepsake jewelry, eco urns |
| Protective/Sanitary Supplies | Body bags, PPE, unionalls, disinfectants |
Look for dependable brands, right-size for your facility, strong warranties, and U.S. craftsmanship to ensure reliability and efficiency.
Outfitting your funeral home with the right equipment isn’t just about tools—it’s about professionalism, safety, and serving families with care. Today’s best suppliers, like Ferno, MOBI, Vischer, and Lynch, offer everything from bariatric-capable stretchers to custom coolers, modern lifts, and eco-friendly memorial options. The right choices help your staff work safely, boost operational speed, and ensure families experience your highest level of service.
I’m Mortuary Cooler, a national mortuary cooler and funeral home equipment supplier. With years of experience helping funeral directors find reliable, American-made solutions, I understand how the right funeral home equipment transforms your workflow from day one. Now, let’s break down each essential category and explore top product picks for your needs.
Simple funeral home equipment glossary:
Essential Funeral Home Equipment Categories
Running a successful funeral home means having the right tools for every step of the process. While each funeral home has unique needs, there are core categories of funeral home equipment that form the backbone of any professional operation. Let's explore what you really need to serve families with dignity and keep your staff safe.
Removal & Transfer Funeral Home Equipment
Your first impression with families often happens during the removal process, so having reliable transfer equipment isn't just about functionality—it's about respect and professionalism.
Mortuary cots and stretchers are your workhorses here. The Ferno 24-MiniMAXX and MOBI F1200 Multi-Level Bariatric Cot have become gold standards in the industry, and for good reason. These units handle 1,000+ pound weight capacity while allowing single-operator use—a game-changer when you're working alone or in tight spaces.
Church trucks might seem like a small detail, but these collapsible, wheeled supports make casket movement during services smooth and dignified. No one wants to struggle with heavy lifting during a funeral service.
The MegaMover Portable Transport Unit deserves special mention. With 14 handles and a 1,000-pound rating, it's become essential for challenging removals—think narrow staircases or awkward spaces where traditional stretchers just won't work.
Here's something many funeral directors are realizing: bariatric equipment isn't optional anymore. With rising obesity rates across the country, investing in high-capacity cots and lifts has become a necessity, not a nice-to-have.
Prep-Room Funeral Home Equipment
The prep room is where technical expertise meets compassion—and where having the right equipment makes all the difference in your work quality and staff safety.
Embalming tables are the centerpiece of any prep room. Whether you choose stainless steel, hydraulic, or folding options, look for integrated drainage systems, adjustable height features, and surfaces that clean easily. These details matter when you're working long hours and need equipment that supports your craftsmanship.
Body lifts have revolutionized prep room safety. Hydraulic, battery-powered, or electric models like the Ultimate 1000 Lift turn what used to be a two-person job into something one person can handle safely. Your staff's backs will thank you, and you'll reduce injury risks significantly.
PortiBoy embalming machines have earned their reputation over decades of reliable service. They provide the precise, consistent arterial injection that professional embalming requires. When you're shopping for these, consider suppliers with authorized repair centers—companies like Lynch Supply offer this peace of mind.
Don't overlook aspiration units and drainage systems. Modern water control and aspiration equipment keeps your prep room sanitary and efficient, which directly impacts your ability to serve multiple families professionally.
Refrigeration & Body Storage
Proper refrigeration isn't just about regulations—it's about maintaining dignity and giving families the time they need to make important decisions.
Mortuary coolers come in several configurations: roll-in, walk-in, or modular systems. The key is finding the right fit for your space and workflow. Custom sizing, like what American Mortuary Coolers offers, ensures your cooler works with your facility rather than against it. Look for reliable climate control, solid warranties (15-year panel warranties are becoming standard), and suppliers who can deliver quickly when you need to expand.
Roller racks and body trays maximize your storage space while making transfers easier on your staff. Quality 304-grade stainless steel racks, whether end-loading or side-loading, should handle 400+ pounds easily. The investment in good racks pays off in smoother daily operations.
Bariatric storage requirements are growing. Extra-wide coolers and heavy-duty racks aren't specialty items anymore—they're becoming standard equipment for forward-thinking funeral homes.
For more expert tips, see A Practical Guide to Choosing Funeral Home Body Coolers.
Chapel, Cemetery & Vehicle Gear
The ceremony is where families remember their loved ones, so your presentation equipment needs to match the level of service you're known for.
Casket lifts and church trucks—whether hydraulic or manual—let you move caskets with dignity while protecting your staff from strain. These aren't places to cut corners, as families notice when things don't go smoothly during services.
Bier pins and floral vase blocks might seem like small details, but they're what keep caskets secure and floral arrangements properly positioned in vehicles and chapels. Professional presentation starts with these fundamentals.
For graveside services, quality tents and flag cases provide weather protection and honor displays that families appreciate. Landau panels and casket trolleys add traditional touches to vehicles while enabling safe, smooth transport that reflects your attention to detail.
Cremation & Memorial Items
With cremation rates continuing to climb nationwide, your memorial offerings need to keep pace with changing family preferences.
Cremation urns range from classic designs to eco-friendly options, with personalization becoming a key trend. Families want something that truly reflects their loved one's personality and values.
Keepsake jewelry is growing rapidly in popularity as families seek tangible ways to keep memories close. These items often become treasured family heirlooms.
Eco-urns and scattering tubes serve the growing number of environmentally conscious families. Biodegradable options show that you understand and respect diverse values and wishes.
Memorial displays that are modular and customizable give families the flexibility to create unique tributes that tell their loved one's story in a personal way.
Best Brands & Featured Products Roundup
After working with funeral homes across the country for decades, I've seen which brands consistently deliver reliability when it matters most. The top names in funeral home equipment didn't earn their reputation by accident—they've proven themselves through thousands of removals, countless prep room hours, and the daily demands of serving families with dignity.
Let me walk you through the standout performers in each category, based on real-world feedback from funeral directors and our own experience outfitting facilities nationwide.
High-Performance Cots & Stretchers
The Ferno Model 24-MiniMAXX Multi-Level Cot has become something of a legend in funeral homes. What makes it special? Single-person operation that actually works, foolproof folding mechanisms, and bariatric support that doesn't feel like an afterthought. I've watched funeral directors switch from two-person teams to confident solo operations after investing in quality cots like this.
The MOBI F1200 Multi-Level Bariatric Cot takes things further with its impressive 1,000+ pound capacity. It's not just about weight—it's about having the confidence to handle any situation with professionalism. The multi-height feature means you're not fighting awkward transfers or straining your back.
For those tight-space removals that keep you up at night, the Reeves Model 101 Flexible Stretcher is a lifesaver. Lightweight and portable, it bends to steer staircases and narrow hallways that would defeat rigid stretchers.
Pro tip: Sale pricing and financing plans are often available from suppliers like Vischer and Mobi Medical—it never hurts to ask about payment options.
Lifts, Hoists & Gantries
The Ultimate 1000 Lift dominates this category for good reason. It transforms what used to be a two or three-person job into safe, single-operator lifting. I've seen funeral directors go from dreading heavy lifts to handling them with confidence and dignity.
Battery-powered solutions like the Electric Stair Climber can move loads up to 375 pounds up and down stairs without the physical strain that leads to injuries and early retirement. The Tug-Along Winch brings remote-controlled, battery-powered casket loading to your vehicles—technology that felt futuristic just a few years ago.
When shopping for hydraulic and battery-powered lifts, look for models with digital scales and marine-grade aluminum construction. These features separate the equipment that lasts decades from the stuff that breaks down when you need it most.
Embalming & Prep Tables
Your prep room is where technical skill meets compassion, so your table needs to support both. Hydraulic embalming tables with stainless steel construction and adjustable height aren't luxuries—they're necessities for maintaining professional standards while protecting your staff's health.
Oversized and folding dressing tables address today's reality of diverse body sizes while maximizing your space efficiency. The 600+ pound rating on quality tables means you're prepared for any situation. Stainless construction isn't just about looks—it's about easy sanitization and equipment that serves families for decades, not years.
Refrigeration & Storage Solutions
This is where American Mortuary Coolers shines. Our roll-in 3-body coolers are modular, scalable, and ship quickly because we understand that refrigeration delays can't happen in your business. Custom-built to fit your exact space, these coolers work with your workflow instead of against it.
End-load racks and cantilever systems boost your storage capacity while making transfers smoother and safer. When you're evaluating coolers, that 15-year panel warranty isn't just marketing—it's confidence in craftsmanship that stands behind your investment.
Mortuary Coolers: Wholesale Direct
Personal Protective & Sanitization Essentials
The pandemic changed how we think about protection, but funeral homes have always understood the importance of safety equipment. Body bags in 8, 15, or 22 mil thickness serve different needs—from routine use to disaster-grade bags with reinforced handles for mass-fatality response.
PPE essentials like N95 respirators, fluid-resistant gowns, nitrile gloves, and unionalls protect your staff and maintain the professional standards families expect. Quality disinfectants and sanitizers aren't optional—they're fundamental to modern funeral service.
The brands I've mentioned—Ferno, MOBI, Mortuary Lift, PortiBoy, Vischer, and Lynch—earned their reputations through peer reviews and real-world performance. When you're making decisions that affect both your staff's safety and your families' experience, proven reliability matters more than initial cost.
Scientific research on must-have funeral equipment
Buying Guide: Choosing, Financing & Comparing Funeral Home Equipment
Shopping for funeral home equipment can feel overwhelming—there are so many options, and frankly, it's not a purchase you make every day. But don't worry. With the right approach, you can make smart decisions that serve your families well and keep your staff safe for years to come.
The key is knowing what to look for before you start comparing price tags.
Key Features Checklist
When you're evaluating any piece of equipment, there are six must-check features that separate the good from the great.
Load rating is your starting point—make sure it handles your heaviest cases and caskets without strain. With bariatric needs growing, don't skimp here. Multi-level capability means your staff can work at the right height without breaking their backs, and often allows single-operator use.
For powered equipment, battery life can make or break your day. Nothing's worse than a lift dying mid-transfer. Stainless steel grade matters too—304 grade or better resists corrosion and cleans easily, which saves you money long-term.
Don't overlook caster locks—they're a simple safety feature that prevents equipment from rolling during critical moments. Finally, modular design lets your equipment grow with your business instead of becoming obsolete.
Always double-check dimensions, weight capacity (up to 1,000+ lbs for bariatric equipment), and warranty terms. Look for ISO-9001, CE, and FDA certifications where they apply—they're signs of quality manufacturing.
Financing & Purchasing Paths
Let's be honest—quality funeral home equipment isn't cheap. But most suppliers understand this and offer flexible payment options.
Three-payment plans are popular for mid-range items. For example, you might find hydraulic embalming tables available for $995 across three payments. Equipment leasing works well for larger purchases and can help with cash flow management.
Many suppliers offer bulk discounts when you're outfitting a new facility or upgrading multiple pieces at once. It never hurts to ask. Some specialized lifts even qualify for tax credits of up to 50%—check with your accountant.
The best suppliers provide 24/7 support because emergencies don't wait for business hours. Companies like Affordable Funeral Supply, Vischer, and Lynch have built their reputations on being there when you need them.
Supplier Service & Warranty Matters
Here's where experience really shows. Family-owned businesses with 90+ years in the industry (like Lynch and the Bergin family behind MortuaryMall.com) have seen it all. They understand your challenges because they've been solving them for decades.
Look for consultative sales approaches. The best suppliers—like Vischer—offer support through texting, email, and phone. They show up at industry conventions and actually listen to what funeral directors need.
Written warranties should be standard, but always ask about the details. What's covered? How long? Who handles repairs? Speaking of repairs, authorized service centers for equipment like PortiBoy and Duotronic machines can save you serious headaches down the road.
Custom sizing and sourcing capabilities set the great suppliers apart from the good ones. Companies like American Mortuary Coolers build equipment to fit your exact space and workflow needs. They can also track down hard-to-find items when you need something specific.
The bottom line? Choose suppliers who see themselves as partners in your success, not just vendors making a sale.
For more detailed guidance, check out The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Funeral Supplier.
Safety, Maintenance & Compliance Essentials
Your funeral home equipment is only as good as how well you maintain it—and how safely your team operates it. The best gear in the world won't serve families properly if it breaks down during a service or, worse, injures a staff member.
OSHA compliance isn't just paperwork—it's your roadmap to protecting your team. Those guidelines for proper lifting techniques, chemical handling, and personal protective equipment exist because someone, somewhere, learned the hard way. Don't let that someone be your employee.
The real game-changer is investing in ergonomic solutions from the start. Multi-level cots, hydraulic embalming tables, and battery-powered lifts aren't luxury items—they're injury prevention tools. When your staff can move a 300-pound casket or transfer a bariatric case without throwing out their back, everyone wins. Your workers stay healthy, your workers' comp costs stay manageable, and your families get consistent, professional service.
Staff training deserves more than a quick demo when new equipment arrives. Make it routine. When that new hydraulic lift arrives, don't just show your team the buttons—walk through emergency procedures, weight limits, and what to do if the battery dies mid-lift. A fifteen-minute training session can prevent a thousand-dollar repair bill.
Routine inspections should be as regular as your morning coffee. Create a simple checklist and stick to it. Check caster locks on stretchers, test battery levels on lifts, inspect drainage systems on prep tables. Most equipment failures give warning signs—weird noises, slower operation, or that hydraulic table that doesn't quite reach full height anymore.
Cleaning protocols matter more than you might think. That stainless steel prep table or body tray isn't stainless by accident—it's designed to resist corrosion and stay sanitary. But only if you use the right cleaners. Harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers can damage protective coatings, leading to rust, staining, and expensive replacements.
When shopping for new equipment, look for ISO-9001 certification on refrigeration units and prep room gear. Those letters mean the manufacturer follows strict quality standards. CE certification indicates European safety compliance—often stricter than U.S. standards.
Don't wait for your first bariatric case to find your equipment can't handle it. Bariatric preparedness means having the right cots, lifts, and storage solutions ready before you need them. That 1,000-pound capacity rating isn't theoretical—it's peace of mind when a family needs your help.
Innovation trends are making equipment safer and more efficient every year. Modular, knock-down assembly lets you fit larger coolers through smaller doorways. Battery-powered lifts and winches eliminate the need for electrical outlets in awkward locations. Digital scales integrated with lifts help with accurate documentation. Even eco-friendly urns and PPE are becoming mainstream as families seek greener options.
The funeral industry has always adapted to serve families better. Today's equipment innovations continue that tradition, making your job safer, more efficient, and more dignified for everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions about Funeral Home Equipment
What are the most critical pieces of funeral home equipment to buy first?
When you're just starting out or upgrading your facility, it's tempting to buy everything at once. But let's be practical—you need to prioritize based on what's absolutely essential for serving families legally and safely.
Start with removal and transfer gear. You can't do your job without reliable mortuary cots and stretchers. The Ferno 24-MiniMAXX or MOBI F1200 are solid choices that'll handle everything from standard cases to bariatric needs.
Next, focus on your prep room essentials—a quality embalming table and basic PortiBoy machine. These are non-negotiable for professional preparation services. Add a body lift if your budget allows, because your staff's backs will thank you later.
Don't forget refrigeration storage. A mortuary cooler isn't optional—it's required by law in most states. Whether you go with a roll-in 3-body unit or a walk-in system depends on your volume and space.
Finally, stock up on protective supplies like body bags, PPE, and disinfectants. These might seem basic, but they're critical for safety and compliance. Without these fundamentals, you simply can't operate legally or serve families with dignity.
How does equipment quality impact family service and operational ROI?
Here's the thing about funeral home equipment—families might not notice when everything works perfectly, but they'll definitely notice when something goes wrong. Quality equipment is like a good foundation—it supports everything else you do.
Reliability means professionalism. When your hydraulic lift works smoothly every time, when your mortuary cooler maintains perfect temperature, when your cot glides effortlessly through tight doorways—these details add up to a seamless experience for grieving families. They see competence and care, even if they can't articulate exactly why.
From a dollars-and-cents perspective, quality equipment pays for itself through reduced downtime and repair costs. That American-made stainless steel cooler with a 15-year panel warranty might cost more upfront, but it'll still be running strong when cheaper alternatives are breaking down.
Quality gear also protects your most valuable asset—your staff. Ergonomic lifts and multi-level cots prevent injuries, which means lower workers' comp costs and less turnover. Happy, healthy employees provide better service, creating a positive cycle that benefits everyone.
Plus, well-built equipment simply lasts longer. We've seen funeral homes still using the same embalming tables and coolers after 20+ years. That's the kind of ROI that makes business sense.
Where can I find specialty or hard-to-find funeral home equipment quickly?
Sometimes you need something specific—maybe an oversized prep table for bariatric cases, or replacement parts for that vintage PortiBoy machine. Don't panic. The funeral industry has suppliers who specialize in tracking down exactly what you need.
Start with established suppliers who've been around the block. Companies with 90+ years in business (like Lynch Supply or the Bergin family behind MortuaryMall.com) have seen it all. They've built relationships with manufacturers and often stock hard-to-find parts.
Many suppliers can source products beyond their standard catalog. Affordable Funeral Supply and similar vendors will hunt down specialty items even if they're not listed on their website. Just call and explain what you need—they're surprisingly resourceful.
For custom solutions, companies like American Mortuary Coolers specialize in building equipment to fit unique spaces and requirements. Need a cooler that fits through a narrow basement door? They'll make it happen and deliver it directly to your facility.
Don't overlook industry connections either. The NFDA business exchange and funeral director forums are goldmines for finding discontinued items or getting recommendations for specialty suppliers. Sometimes another funeral home has exactly what you need sitting in storage.
The key is building relationships with suppliers who understand the urgency of funeral service. When you need something fast, having those connections makes all the difference.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Choosing the right funeral home equipment isn't just about checking boxes—it's about building a foundation that serves families with dignity while keeping your staff safe and your operations running smoothly. Every piece, from that first mortuary cot to your custom cooler system, reflects your commitment to excellence.
The funeral service industry is evolving rapidly. Families expect more personalized services, bariatric needs are increasing, and cremation rates continue climbing. Having the right equipment means you're ready for whatever comes through your doors.
American Mortuary Coolers understands these challenges because we've been part of this industry for years. Based right here in Tennessee, we've helped funeral homes across all 48 contiguous states find equipment solutions that actually work for their unique spaces and needs. We're not just another supplier—we're partners who understand that when your equipment fails, families suffer.
Our custom mortuary coolers aren't just built to specifications; they're built to last decades. We use premium materials, offer real warranties, and deliver directly to your door because we know you don't have time to chase down suppliers or deal with equipment failures during your busiest moments.
Whether you're opening a new location, upgrading aging equipment, or planning for growth, the investment you make today in quality funeral home equipment will pay dividends for years to come. Better equipment means fewer headaches, safer working conditions, and the confidence that comes from knowing you can serve every family that trusts you with their most difficult moments.
Ready to take the next step? We're here to help you steer the choices, answer your questions, and ensure you get exactly what your facility needs. For more detailed guidance on building your equipment foundation, check out our comprehensive resource on essential funeral home equipment.
Your families deserve your best service. Your staff deserves safe, reliable tools. And you deserve equipment partners who understand what's at stake every single day.
Let's make sure your next service runs flawlessly—with equipment built to honor the trust families place in you.
