Repatriation Process 

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International Transport of Human Remains

International repatriation is a structured process that requires coordination, documentation and professional handling.

Our team manages every step to ensure a smooth, reliable and efficient transfer from Germany to the destination country.



Initial Contact & Case Review


The process begins with your request.

We review all relevant details, including:

* location of the deceased
* destination country
* type of transport (coffin or urn)
* urgency and specific requirements

Every case is different. Requirements may vary depending on the destination country, available documentation, airline regulations and individual circumstances.

Based on this, we provide initial guidance and determine the most suitable and efficient procedure.



Documentation & Coordination


International repatriation requires various official documents and approvals.

We handle all necessary steps, including:

* death certificates
* permits and authorizations
* coordination with authorities
* communication with embassies and consulates

This ensures that all legal and international requirements are met correctly.



Preparation & Care


The deceased is prepared in accordance with international standards and destination requirements.

Depending on the country, this may include:

* embalming procedures
* hygienic preparation
* use of a sealed coffin (e.g. zinc lining)
* preparation for urn transport (if cremation is chosen)

Preparation requirements vary depending on the destination country and transport conditions.

Our expertise allows us to handle both standard and complex cases, including situations requiring specialized post-mortem care or advanced preparation techniques.



Transport & Airline Coordination


We organize and coordinate the international transport via air cargo.

This includes:

* booking suitable flights
* preparation of air waybill (AWB) documentation
* coordination with airline cargo departments
* compliance with airline transport regulations

Transporting a coffin requires specialized handling due to weight, size and regulatory requirements, while urn transport is generally less complex.



Cargo Handling, Customs & Regulations


International repatriation is handled as regulated cargo.

We manage:

* cargo handling procedures
* customs clearance
* coordination with airport authorities
* compliance with international transport regulations

Depending on the destination country, additional documents, consular approvals or health-related requirements may apply.

These procedures are essential and ensure that the transport is carried out legally and without delays.



Arrival & Local Handling


At the destination, we coordinate with local partners to ensure:

* smooth customs clearance
* transfer to the final location
* preparation for burial or further arrangements

In many cases, additional handling steps may be required at the destination, depending on local regulations and funeral practices.


Strategic Location: Frankfurt Airport


Our services are based in Frankfurt, Germany, one of Europe’s most important international transport hubs.

Being located near Frankfurt Airport allows us to coordinate repatriations efficiently, with direct access to international flight connections and cargo services.

This enables reliable and timely handling of international cases.


Important Note


Every repatriation case is unique.
The exact process may vary depending on the country, legal requirements and individual circumstances.



Start the Process


Our team will guide you through every step and provide a clear, structured and professional solution.

Ablauf internationaler Überführungen & Rückführungen aus und nach Deutschland


Internationale Überführungen aus Deutschland sowie Rückführungen aus dem Ausland nach Deutschland erfordern je nach Land, Transportart und behördlichen Vorschriften unterschiedliche organisatorische Abläufe.

Dazu gehören unter anderem internationale Dokumentationen, behördliche Freigaben, Cargo- und Airlinekoordination sowie internationale Transportvorbereitungen.

Da sich internationale Rückführungen je nach individueller Situation unterscheiden können, kann sich auch der organisatorische Ablauf entsprechend verändern.

Bestattungen Léon Vöth GmbH                                                                                📞 Phone: +49 69 94942295

Abt. International Repatriation Services                                                                  📞 Phone: +49 15170282305                                    
CargoCity - Süd Gebäude 534

60549 Frankfurt am Main Airport                                                                          📧 Email: [email protected]

Germany