The funeral car is by no means something you have to have as part of the ceremony but there are reasons why you might want to have one.

Why do people have funeral cars?

Funeral cars are part of a procession known as a cortege which begins at the funeral home, or home where the deceased lived, to the service and then if necessary on to the place of burial.

In the past, processions took place on foot and male mourners would carry the coffin on a bier to the local churchyard. In modern times, where the location for the service and place of rest might be miles away, they’ll take place on the road.

While it is not essential to hire a funeral car there are many reasons why people consider it necessary.

One main reason is simply to transport the deceased’s nearest and dearest to different locations at a time when they are at their most vulnerable and upset. The driver of the funeral car will know exactly where to take the mourners and help to mitigate all the stress of having to drive there in person.

Funeral cars also add more gravitas to the procession. It feels more like a mark of respect to follow the hearse to its destination in a smart limousine.

You can also transport the immediate family and friends of the person who has passed away all together in one car which also makes things a lot less stressful for everyone concerned.

Who sits in a funeral car?

Only the closest family members such as parents, spouses and children are entitled by funeral etiquette to ride in the first limousine, so often there is a second funeral car for in-laws, other family members and close friends.

Do funeral cars take you home after a funeral service?

Funeral cars can take you anywhere you need to go locally.

How to choose a funeral car

Really, this is all about personal choice, although most people will opt for a limousine, which can accommodate up to seven people. There’s also the possibility of hiring a stretch limousine which might hold up to 20 mourners. Other forms of funeral transport include double decker buses and horse drawn carriages.

Want to know more about the kind of funeral car you might need for a loved one’s funeral? Your funeral director is always here to advise, so please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today or check out our funeral cars page for more information.