Urn Size Guide
Choosing the right size is simpler than it looks. The standard rule: allow one cubic inch of capacity for each pound of body weight. If a loved one weighed around 180 lb, an urn of 180 cubic inches or more will hold the complete ashes comfortably — when unsure, size up.
Size chart
| Type | Capacity | Typical size | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult urn | ~200 cu in | 10″ tall × 6″ wide | Complete ashes of one adult up to ~200 lb |
| Companion / XL | 300+ cu in | 11–13″ tall | Larger adults or two people together |
| Keepsake urn | ~3 cu in | 3″ tall | A small portion kept close, or shared among family |
| Keepsake set of 4 | 4 × 3 cu in | Four 3″ minis | One for each sibling, child or grandparent |
| Heart keepsake | ~15–25 cu in | 5–6″ wide | A tender portion, displayed on its stand |
| Family set (urn + minis) | 200 + 4×3 cu in | Full set, one box | The whole family, together |
Three quick examples
- Loved one weighed 150 lb → any adult urn of 150+ cu in fits; our standard 200 cu in urns are ideal.
- Sharing among four siblings → a set of four keepsakes, or a family set if one full-size urn will stay at home.
- A small remembrance for a shelf → a single keepsake or heart urn holds a few tablespoons of ashes.
Good to know
How much ash is there? Cremation typically returns about one cubic inch per pound of body weight — roughly 3–7 lb of ashes for an adult. More detail in How much ash after cremation?
Flying with an urn? TSA allows cremated remains in carry-on, but they must pass X-ray screening — wood and non-metal urns scan best. See filling and sealing an urn.
Still unsure? Read What size urn do I need? or contact us — we will recommend the right size the same day.