Inbound Repatriation
Bringing Your Loved One Home to the UK — With Care and Dignity
When someone dies overseas, the process of bringing them home can feel overwhelming. At Lodge Brothers, we provide full inbound repatriation services — guiding you clearly, handling all documentation and transport, and caring for your loved one from the moment we are contacted.
Our role is to make the process understandable, respectful and fully supported.
What Inbound Repatriation Means
Inbound repatriation refers to the return of a deceased person from another country to the United Kingdom. It usually involves:
Every step must be followed correctly, and we are here to ensure that it is done properly and with dignity.
Our Step-by-Step Process
We manage every stage for you:
Step 1 – Contact Lodge Brothers
We gather essential details and explain what will happen next.
Step 2 – Overseas Arrangements
We liaase with trusted partners abroad to collect your loved one and manage local requirements.
Step 3 – Legal Documentation
We obtain all necessary paperwork, such as consular clearance, export permits and airline approvals.
Step 4 – Transport to the UK
We arrange flight bookings, specialist coffins where required, and manage airport handling and customs.
Step 5 – Arrival and Care in the UK
We receive your loved one in person and transport them safely into our care.
Step 6 – Funeral Arrangements
We help plan the funeral, burial or memorial service — whether immediate or at a later date.
You will always have one dedicated point of contact who will guide you gently through each step.
Downloadable Checklist — What We Need From You
This checklist can be used digitally or provided as a printable version.
Essential Information
Documents We May Require
We Will Guide You Through
Typical Timeline — At a Glance
This outline can also become a graphic or process timeline online:
Day 1 to 3
First Contact and Preparation
We gather information and explain what will happen next.
Day 3 to 7
Overseas Arrangements
Local paperwork and coordination begin abroad.
Day 7 to 12
Travel and Customs Clearance
Transport to the UK is prepared and approved.
Day 12 to 15
Funeral Planning
Once your loved one is in our care, we guide you through any choices ahead.
Please note: Timings can vary significantly based on country and local requirements. We will always let you know what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ashes be brought back instead of the body?
Yes. We offer ashes-only repatriation, which may involve fewer formalities. We will explain the full process.
Can family members travel with the flight?
Will language or documentation be a problem?
Can we hold a funeral abroad and a service in the UK afterwards?
Our Commitment to Care
At Lodge Brothers, we believe every person deserves to be brought home with dignity. Our repatriation service focuses on clear communication, gentle guidance and professional handling of every detail.
We listen.
We explain.
We bring your loved one home.
Lodge Brothers
Trusted since 1780
The Lodge Family Difference
From simple farewells to traditional funerals