Coffin vs Casket: What’s the Difference?

Written by Gift of Grace Funerals · Published 22 September 2026 · 9 min read

Coffin vs casket: the two words are often used as if they mean the same thing, but they don't, quite. Choosing one is among the first decisions families make when arranging a funeral. This guide explains the difference between the two, the materials and eco friendly options available, what suits burial or cremation, and how to choose one that feels right for your loved one and your budget.

What is the difference between a coffin and a casket?

The difference between a coffin and a casket is their shape: a coffin is tapered to follow the outline of the body, while a casket is a rectangular box. Both do the same job, and the choice between them is mostly about personal taste, tradition and budget.

In Australia, the word "coffin" is the more common term and coffins are the traditional choice for most funerals. Caskets are more closely associated with American funerals, although many Australian families choose them too.

The shape of a coffin

A coffin is usually six-sided when viewed from above. It is widest at the shoulders and narrows towards the head and the feet. Some coffin designs have eight sides. The lid is normally a single piece that lifts off completely.

The shape of a casket

A casket is rectangular, with four straight sides and square corners. Many caskets have a split lid, where the top half can be opened separately so the person can be seen from the waist up during a viewing, while the lower half stays closed. Caskets also often have long bar handles running along the sides.

What are coffins and caskets made from?

Most coffins and caskets are made from timber or timber-based materials, while eco friendly coffins use natural woven fibres or recycled materials. The material affects the look, the weight and the price.

• Solid timber: traditional and long-lasting in appearance, often with a polished finish.
• Timber veneer: a thin layer of real timber over a manufactured board, which gives the look of solid wood at a lower cost.
• Woven natural fibres: materials such as bamboo, rattan, pandanus and kubu are woven into a light, softly textured coffin.
• Cardboard or recycled materials: simple, lightweight and often decorated by family with drawings, messages or photos.

Fittings matter too. Handles, name plates and decorations can be made from metal or other materials, and the interior is usually lined with fabric.

What is an eco friendly coffin?

An eco friendly coffin is made from natural, renewable or recycled materials that are designed to break down more gently than a traditional polished coffin. Popular options include woven bamboo, rattan, pandanus and kubu.

Eco friendly coffins suit families looking for a simpler, more natural farewell, and many people find the woven designs warm and beautiful in their own right. They can be paired with flowers or greenery on top for a garden-like feel. If the environmental side of the funeral matters to you, our article on natural and eco-friendly funerals explains other ways to make a farewell gentler on the earth.

Not every eco coffin suits every cemetery, crematorium or type of service, so talk to your funeral director about which designs will work for the arrangements you have in mind.

Coffin vs casket for cremation and burial

Both coffins and caskets can be used for either cremation or burial in Perth. What matters most is that the coffin or casket meets the requirements of the cemetery or crematorium, and your funeral director will check this for you.

For cremation

The Metropolitan Cemeteries Board (MCB), which runs cemeteries including Karrakatta, Pinnaroo and Fremantle, states in its guide for families holding a single funeral that "a substantial and respectable coffin is required for cremation". Its guide also notes that, unless families instruct otherwise, metal parts remaining after cremation are recycled.

Because the coffin is cremated with the person, many families choose a simpler coffin for cremation and put more of their budget into the service itself. Our guide to cremations in Perth explains the options.

For burial

The MCB also requires a substantial and respectable coffin for burial. Its guide sets out maximum standard dimensions for a coffin or casket at its cemeteries of 2060mm long, 690mm wide and 430mm high. If a larger coffin or casket is needed, your funeral director will discuss it with the cemetery in advance.

If you are still deciding between the two, read our comparison of cremation vs burial in Perth.

Name plates and homemade coffins

Under the MCB's requirements, the coffin must have a plate on the lid with the person's name clearly inscribed, and a lead strip stamped with their surname is placed under the name plate. If a family wants to use a coffin or casket that has been made for them, it must first be presented to the MCB for approval. Rules can differ at other cemeteries and crematoria, so always check before you buy or build a coffin yourself.

Is a casket more expensive than a coffin?

Generally, yes. Caskets usually cost more than coffins because they use more material, are heavier and often have more elaborate fittings and finishes. Within each type, though, prices vary widely.

The main things that affect the cost of a coffin or casket are:

• Material: solid timber usually costs more than veneer, cardboard or some woven designs.
• Shape and size: a casket uses more material than a coffin, and oversized designs cost more.
• Finish: a high-gloss polish, carving or a custom colour adds to the price.
• Handles and fittings: decorative handles and features increase the cost.
• Interior: premium linings and pillows cost more than a simple lining.

Many funeral packages include a standard coffin, with the option to upgrade. At Gift of Grace Funerals, our range includes traditional coffins, eco friendly coffins and caskets, and you can browse them on our coffins page. To see what is included in each package, visit our funeral packages page, or read our guide on how much a funeral costs in Perth.

How to choose between a coffin and a casket

The right choice is the one that reflects your loved one and fits your family's wishes and budget. There is no right or wrong answer, and a simple coffin honours someone just as well as an elaborate casket.

These questions can help you decide:

1. Did they ever say what they wanted? Check any pre-paid funeral plan, will or notes. Some people have firm views, such as wanting something simple or something natural.
2. Will it be a burial or a cremation? This may shape how much you want to spend on the coffin itself.
3. Will there be a viewing? A casket with a split lid can suit an open viewing, although a coffin can also be used for a viewing.
4. What reflects who they were? A polished timber coffin might suit someone traditional, while a woven eco coffin might suit a gardener or nature lover.
5. Do your cultural or religious traditions guide the choice? Some faiths prefer a plain, simple coffin. Your funeral director can help you follow these customs.
6. What is your budget? Decide what feels comfortable and ask to see options within it. You never have to choose the most expensive option to show love and respect.

Some families also personalise the coffin with flowers, a photo, a flag, a favourite football scarf or handwritten messages from grandchildren. These personal touches often mean more than the coffin itself.

Choosing the Right Resting Place for Your Loved One

The difference between a coffin and a casket comes down to shape, style and cost rather than right or wrong. Both are suitable for burial or cremation in Perth, and eco-friendly options give families a natural alternative.

Think about your loved one’s values, your budget and the type of service you are planning, then ask your funeral director to show you the range. The right choice is simply the one that feels true to the person you are farewelling.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a difference between a coffin and a casket?

Yes. A coffin is tapered, wider at the shoulders and narrower at the head and feet, and usually has six sides. A casket is rectangular with four sides and often has a split lid for viewings.

Can you be cremated in a casket?

Yes, both coffins and caskets can be used for cremation in Perth. The Metropolitan Cemeteries Board requires a substantial and respectable coffin for cremation, and your funeral director will make sure the one you choose meets the crematorium's requirements.

Are eco friendly coffins suitable for burial and cremation?

Many eco friendly coffins, such as woven bamboo, rattan or pandanus designs, can be used for burial or cremation. Requirements vary between cemeteries and crematoria, so ask your funeral director to confirm the design suits your arrangements.

Can I make my own coffin in WA?

You can, but at Metropolitan Cemeteries Board sites a homemade coffin or casket must be presented to the MCB for approval before the funeral. It also needs a name plate on the lid and a lead strip with the person's surname under the plate.

Do Australians use coffins or caskets?

Coffins are the traditional and more common choice in Australia, and "coffin" is the word most people use. Caskets are also available and are chosen by many families who prefer their rectangular shape and style.