The Complete Guide to Cemetery Equipment for Sale
Why Cemetery Equipment Investment Matters for Modern Funeral Operations
Cemetery equipment for sale includes specialized tools and machinery designed exclusively for funeral homes, crematories, and cemeteries. Here's what's typically available:
Essential Cemetery Equipment Categories:
- Casket lowering devices - $2,945 to $10,500+ (Imperial, Frigid Master models)
- Cemetery tents - $3,393 to $4,850 (15'×15' to 15'×20' sizes)
- Lot markers - Starting at $4.40 (stainless steel, cast aluminum)
- Casket carriages - $3,875 to $4,275 range
- Grave boards and grass sets - $178 to $660 for complete setups
- Mobile equipment - Dump trailers, compact excavators, hydraulic lifts
Who Can Purchase: Sales are restricted to licensed funeral homes, crematories, cemeteries, and authorized educators only.
The funeral industry has evolved significantly over the past decades. As one general foreman with 38 years of cemetery experience noted: "In 38 years of working at Catholic cemeteries, no system has been more labor-saving, efficient, and respectful to the grounds."
Modern cemetery operations demand equipment that balances efficiency with respect for the burial environment. Today's funeral directors face increasing pressure to streamline operations while maintaining the dignity families expect during their most difficult moments.
Key considerations when evaluating cemetery equipment include load capacity (typically 800+ pounds for lowering devices), material durability, and compliance with local regulations. Equipment must also steer narrow cemetery pathways without damaging existing headstones or creating unsightly turf damage.
I'm Mortuary Cooler, a national-level mortuary cooler supplier with extensive experience helping funeral homes source reliable cemetery equipment for sale across the United States. My background includes working directly with funeral directors to identify equipment solutions that meet both operational needs and budget constraints, ensuring seamless delivery and installation nationwide.
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Cemetery Equipment for Sale: Categories & Key Features
Finding the right cemetery equipment for sale requires understanding eight core equipment categories that make the difference in building a professional operation.
Casket lowering devices are where you don't want to cut corners. These hydraulic or manual systems safely lower caskets while maintaining reverence during difficult moments. The Frigid Master lowering device has been the gold standard since 1990, while Imperial devices handle loads up to 800 pounds with impressive reliability.
Grave boards spread weight evenly to prevent damaged turf or unsafe footing for pallbearers. Available in 14-inch and 21-inch widths, premium versions use polypropylene fibers with marine rubber backing for wet conditions.
Cemetery tents create dignified shelter for graveside services. Choose between 15×15 and 15×20 sizes, with frames in aluminum (lighter, easier to move) or galvanized steel (stable in wind). Acrylic tops handle weather while looking respectful.
Lot markers keep cemeteries organized affordably. Starting at $4.40 for stainless steel or cast aluminum options, these 3½-inch and 4½-inch markers last for decades.
Casket carriages ($3,875 to $4,275) like the AEON model feature pneumatic tires and protective covers for smooth transport that protects staff backs and keeps caskets pristine.
Mausoleum lifts handle specialized above-ground interments with hydraulic precision. Dirt-moving equipment like the Equipter 3300 handles 4,740 pounds while staying under 6 feet wide for tight cemetery pathways. Body and casket lifts range from simple hydraulic lifters to sophisticated battery-powered units handling 1,000+ pounds.
Selecting Cemetery Equipment for Sale for Traditional Burial
Traditional burial services need equipment that works seamlessly while maintaining dignity families expect.
Imperial and Frigid devices dominate this market. Imperial lowering devices support up to 800 pounds with construction built for daily use. The Frigid Master series offers exceptional durability, with models ranging from $2,945 to over $10,500.
The Frigid 3-N-1 Master lowering device set at $10,528.33 represents the premium choice, combining lowering capability with placer arms for precise positioning. Budget-conscious options include basic Imperial models with essential safety features.
Tent frame selection matters significantly. Aluminum frames provide lightweight portability without corrosion, perfect for frequent setup. Steel frames offer superior wind stability but require maintenance to prevent rust.
The CFS 15×15 Hillside tent with aluminum frame and acrylic top, priced at $3,650, offers excellent value. Larger 15×20 configurations work better for extended families or comfortable spacing.
Grass sets complete professional appearance. Cemetery grass T-sets start at $178.35, while complete sets reach $660. These synthetic systems use premium polypropylene fibers with marine-grade rubber backing for multiple seasons of outdoor use.
Cemetery Equipment for Sale for Cremation & Infant Services
Cremation and infant services require specialized equipment designed for smaller dimensions and gentler handling. These services have grown tremendously, creating demand for purpose-built solutions maintaining the same dignity as traditional burials.
Urn and infant lowering device sets provide appropriate scale for smaller interments. The complete set, priced at $5,637, includes specialized arms designed for lightweight containers, ensuring smooth, controlled lowering without excessive capacity that can feel inappropriate.
Urn lowering devices offer targeted solutions for primarily cremation services. These compact units handle urns safely while taking minimal space during transport and storage.
Cremation stands provide stable, dignified display for urns during outdoor memorial services. The infant cremation stand accommodates various urn sizes with adjustable heights and secure positioning systems preventing displacement during windy conditions.
Portable platforms create appropriate staging areas where permanent infrastructure doesn't exist. The SG burial platform offers stable footing for clergy and family during committal services.
Cremation vault lowering devices handle below-ground urn placement with precision these services deserve, ensuring proper vault positioning while maintaining controlled, respectful pace.
Price Ranges, Leading Brands & Comparison
When shopping for cemetery equipment for sale, prices range from simple stainless steel lot markers at $4.40 up to comprehensive lowering device systems topping $10,500.
Frigid has been the gold standard in lowering devices since introducing their Master series in 1990, with over three decades of proven reliability. Imperial focuses on straightforward, robust construction with clear load ratings up to 800 pounds.
For mobile equipment, Equipter offers their 3300 dump trailer with 4,740-pound capacity while fitting through narrow cemetery pathways. REFORM brings European engineering to cemetery excavation, with compact machines ranging 83 to 140 cm wide. Mini-Haul has evolved dirt management solutions since the 1970s, while Mobi Medical emphasizes US construction with marine-grade materials for outdoor conditions.
Pricing breaks down logically by category. Lot markers start at $4.40 up to $15 for premium options. Grass sets range from $178 for basic T-sets to $660 for complete installations. Casket carriages sit between $3,875 and $4,275. Cemetery tents span $3,393 to $4,850 depending on size.
Lowering devices show the biggest variation, from $2,945 for basic models to $10,528 for premium units. Mobile equipment runs $4,274 to $11,585, while heavy lifts range from $5,637 to $8,421.
Budget vs. Premium Lowering Devices
The difference between budget and premium lowering devices comes down to weight capacity, materials, and warranty coverage.
Load capacity is crucial. Budget models typically max out around 600-800 pounds, handling most standard caskets. Premium models support 1,000+ pounds, essential for oversized caskets or challenging ground conditions.
Material quality affects longevity. Stainless steel costs more upfront but resists corrosion and maintains professional appearance through years of outdoor use, requiring less maintenance. Basic steel with protective coatings works adequately at lower cost but needs more attention.
Warranty coverage varies dramatically. Premium manufacturers provide comprehensive warranties covering materials and workmanship for multiple years. Budget options offer limited coverage or exclude certain components.
The Frigid Master series represents premium tier with robust materials, solid warranties, and decades of proven performance. Basic Imperial models provide dependable service for operations not needing absolute top tier.
Tents, Grass & Accessories Cost Breakdown
Tent pricing follows straightforward patterns. A 15×15 configuration starts around $3,393, while 15×20 models reach $4,850. Frame material creates two price tiers - aluminum costs more but won't corrode, while galvanized steel saves money initially but requires rust prevention care.
Accessories like tent walls and sun extensions expand weather protection but add cost. Grass sets range from basic $178 T-sets covering essential grave head area to complete $660 systems including side pieces and mound covers for polished, professional appearance.
Heavy Equipment & Lifts Pricing
Heavy equipment represents significant investments changing cemetery operations. Dump trailers like the Equipter 3300 combine 4,740-pound capacity with compact design for narrow pathways.
Mobile cranes such as the Equipter 5400 offer 23-foot reach with 4,431-pound maximum lifts, essential for monument placement with remote control operation for safe distances.
Hydraulic lifts show the widest price range. Basic one-person units start around $1,484, while premium battery-powered systems exceed $8,000. Financing and leasing options help make larger investments manageable.
Innovations & Specialized Tools for Efficiency and Safety
The funeral industry is experiencing a quiet revolution. Modern cemetery equipment for sale incorporates technology that seemed impossible just a decade ago, changing how funeral professionals work while maintaining respect families deserve.
Compact excavators have transformed cemetery ground preparation. REFORM's cemetery technology produces machines as narrow as 83 cm—barely three feet wide—designed to slip through tight pathways without damaging surrounding graves. Their 20-78 kW power range provides muscle while treading lightly on sacred ground.
Self-propelled dump trailers are game-changers. The Equipter RB3000 (now called the 3300) lets one person handle what used to require full crews. As Equipter's guide to small dirt moving equipment explains, these machines keep excavated dirt out of sight during services, then make backfilling effortless.
Radio-remote cranes bring precision and safety together. The Equipter 5400's 23-foot reach and 4,431-pound capacity means operators can place heavy monuments from safe distances, protecting both operators and nearby headstones.
Hybrid electric lifts represent the latest advancement. Battery-powered units eliminate noise and potential hydraulic leaks in quiet cemetery environments, especially valuable in locations with strict environmental or noise regulations.
Smart Mobility & Remote Control
Modern cemetery equipment excels at working in tight spaces without leaving traces. Tight turning radius capabilities prevent damage that used to be reality. Compact excavators rotate 360 degrees, letting operators swing dirt directly into dump trailers without repositioning.
This efficiency translates to reduced turf damage through thoughtful weight distribution and track design. Today's equipment uses wide tracks or specially designed tires spreading weight evenly, eliminating unsightly ruts or soil compaction.
Ergonomic Handling Systems
Cemetery work no longer requires superhuman strength. One-person hydraulic lifters like the Sampson model at $1,484 enable single operators to handle caskets safely. Streamliner carts bring organization to graveside services. The Frigid Streamliner Mobile Set Up Cart starts at $4,274, providing systematic storage for lowering devices, grass sets, and accessories.
These improvements reduce physical toll on cemetery staff while maintaining professional appearance families expect, dramatically reducing workers' compensation claims and helping retain good employees.
Buying, Maintenance & Compliance Guide
When investing in cemetery equipment for sale, smart buyers think beyond initial purchase to long-term success.
Who can buy this equipment? Sales are restricted to licensed funeral homes, crematories, cemeteries, and authorized educators only. As suppliers clearly state: "We do not sell cemetery equipment and supplies to the general public." This ensures specialized equipment reaches trained hands.
Material quality makes the difference in outdoor performance. Stainless steel costs more upfront but resists corrosion, maintaining professional appearance through countless services. Cast aluminum offers excellent durability at lower weight. Galvanized steel provides solid budget value but requires more rust prevention attention.
Financing options preserve cash reserves. Many suppliers offer lease programs accessing current technology while preserving capital. Delivery planning is essential for heavy items. Lift-gate delivery becomes necessary without loading docks, while white-glove setup ensures correct installation.
For deeper insights, check our guide on essential mortuary equipment.
Inspection & Care Routines
Regular cleaning keeps equipment looking professional and functioning properly. Stainless steel needs specific cleaners preventing water spots. Don't let soil build up—it causes rapid corrosion.
Lubrication schedules aren't optional for smooth operation when it matters. Lowering devices need regular attention to cables, pulleys, and hydraulic systems. Device drapes protect equipment from weather while maintaining dignified appearance.
Financing, Leasing & Delivery
Lease calculators remove guesswork from financing decisions. Many funeral homes prefer leasing to preserve capital while staying current with technology. Lift-gate shipping ensures safe delivery without loading docks. White-glove setup provides peace of mind for complex installations.
Staying Code-Compliant
OSHA requirements govern workplace safety, and proper equipment helps maintain compliance while protecting staff. Local cemetery bylaws can restrict equipment types, operation hours, and noise levels. Load certifications ensure equipment meets safety standards for intended use—don't cut corners on equipment failure consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cemetery Equipment for Sale
Who can legally purchase cemetery equipment?
Cemetery equipment for sale is restricted to professional funeral industry operators only. Licensed funeral homes, crematories, cemeteries, and authorized educators can purchase this specialized equipment, but individual consumers cannot buy directly from suppliers.
This restriction exists for good reasons. Cemetery equipment requires professional knowledge for safe operation and proper maintenance. A casket lowering device that malfunctions during a service creates both safety hazards and emotional trauma for grieving families.
Suppliers verify your credentials before processing any orders. You'll need to provide proof of licensing or educational authorization. Some suppliers require additional documentation, particularly for expensive items like hydraulic lifts or excavation equipment.
The licensing requirement also helps maintain quality standards across the funeral industry. When only trained professionals can access this equipment, it ensures proper handling and reduces the risk of accidents or inappropriate use.
What warranty and service support should buyers expect?
Warranty coverage varies dramatically between manufacturers, so understanding what you're getting is crucial before making major equipment investments. Premium brands like Frigid typically offer comprehensive warranties covering both materials and workmanship, while budget options may provide limited coverage.
For mortuary coolers, expect substantial warranty protection. Most quality manufacturers provide 15-year panel warranties and 5-year mechanical component coverage. This extensive coverage reflects the critical nature of refrigeration equipment in funeral operations.
Service support includes several key components that can make or break your equipment investment. Replacement parts availability ensures you can maintain equipment for years after purchase. Technical assistance through phone consultation helps resolve minor issues quickly. Field service provides on-site repairs when phone support isn't sufficient.
Response times depend on your location and the urgency of your situation. Most suppliers prioritize emergency repairs for critical equipment to minimize disruption to funeral services. A broken lowering device on the morning of a burial gets immediate attention, while routine maintenance can wait for regular scheduling.
Parts inventories maintained by established manufacturers ensure you won't face extended downtime waiting for components. This reliability proves essential when serving families during their most difficult moments.
Are there eco-friendly or electric options available?
The funeral industry has acceptd environmentally conscious equipment options that reduce both environmental impact and operating costs. Battery-powered equipment leads this trend, offering cleaner operation without sacrificing performance.
Electric mortuary lifts eliminate hydraulic fluid leaks while providing reliable operation with minimal environmental impact. These units charge overnight and provide full-day operation, making them practical for most funeral home applications.
Compact electric excavators offer quiet operation that's particularly valuable in urban cemetery environments. Many cities have noise restrictions that make traditional diesel equipment problematic, especially for early morning or late afternoon services.
The quiet operation benefits extend beyond regulatory compliance. Families appreciate the respectful atmosphere created by equipment that doesn't disrupt the solemnity of burial services. Electric equipment also reduces emissions in enclosed spaces like mausoleums.
Solar charging systems can power battery-operated equipment in remote cemetery locations without electrical infrastructure. This capability proves particularly valuable for rural cemeteries or historic locations where electrical installation would damage the landscape or disturb existing monuments.
These eco-friendly options often provide reduced soil compaction and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional equipment. While initial costs may be higher, operating savings and environmental benefits make them attractive long-term investments for forward-thinking funeral operations.
Conclusion
The funeral industry has reached an exciting turning point. Modern cemetery equipment for sale delivers remarkable efficiency while preserving the dignity that grieving families deserve during their most vulnerable moments. The equipment we've explored—from $4.40 lot markers to $10,500 premium lowering devices—represents decades of innovation focused on making difficult work more manageable.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've witnessed how the right equipment transforms funeral operations. Our Tennessee-based team has delivered custom mortuary coolers and cemetery equipment solutions across all 48 contiguous states, from busy metropolitan areas like New York NY and Los Angeles to smaller communities throughout Johnson City TN, Atlanta GA, Chicago IL, Columbia SC, Dallas TX, and Pittsburgh PA.
When making your next equipment purchase, remember to verify load capacity requirements of 800+ pounds for standard burial services. Consider material durability carefully—stainless steel costs more upfront but saves money over years of outdoor use. Evaluate financing options since leasing often makes premium equipment accessible while preserving capital for other needs.
Don't forget to confirm warranty coverage and service support before signing any contracts. Quality manufacturers stand behind their products with comprehensive warranties and responsive technical support. Check local compliance requirements early in the process, as OSHA standards and cemetery bylaws can influence equipment selection significantly.
Plan for delivery and installation needs including lift-gate service for heavy items and white-glove setup for complex hydraulic systems. Finally, factor in long-term maintenance costs when comparing options—premium equipment often costs less over its lifetime despite higher initial prices.
Quality cemetery equipment investment creates a ripple effect throughout your operation. Staff injuries decrease, efficiency improves, and families notice the professional difference. As one cemetery foreman with 38 years of experience told us: "No system has been more labor-saving, efficient, and respectful to the grounds."
The funeral industry continues evolving, but the core mission remains unchanged—serving families with dignity during their most difficult hours. Equipment that balances traditional respect with modern capability will serve funeral professionals well into the future.
For comprehensive information about our complete equipment and refrigeration solutions, including how we can customize solutions for your specific operational needs, visit our detailed overview of American Mortuary Coolers' complete equipment and refrigeration solutions.
