We used aCremation last year. It feels a little surreal writing a review on a cremation service, but I was desperately looking for reviews a year ago, and thought I would pay it forward so to speak. Their name was given to me on a list of potential cremation providers by the hospital.
Most people probably pick aCremation because of the reasonable cost. That wasn't so much of a factor for us. We knew going in we wanted cremation, and that the classic funeral home experience was not something we wanted/needed. aCreamation was as a result pretty perfect for us.
Pros
1. After placing the initial call on a weekend holiday, they called right back, even on the holiday.
2. People on the phone were some of the best customer service people I've ever experienced. Compassionate, helpful, patient, can problem solve. They just don't data input. I can't thank them enough for this- as I was dreading making the call. I could barely talk and they got me through it.
3. Very transparent on fees. They don't try and upsell you. They are very direct and upfront about the fees. And, if there is an additional fee given your specific situation or what you want, they are very upfront about it. There were no hidden fees, no surprises on the invoice, etc.
4. Very transparent on the timeline.
5. Used docusign (which I use at work). Thought this was very efficient.
Cons
1. They are better via phone then email. I sent a couple of emails after the initial information intake process and and when I didn't get a response, i finally just called them. Your "case" is tracked via a CMS system, so they were able to bring up the status right there and answer my question right away.
2. It isn't really 24/7. It kind is like a doctor's office. If it is after hours/emergency, then there is a special phone number. But, if you are just looking for an update, they aren't at your beck and call, so to speak (I'm not sure a funeral home would be either).
3. They don't provide you with "push" updates. I would have liked update emails every step of the way. (I'm big on communication). If you call, they know exactly where your loved one is, but they don't pro-actively email you.
Tips
1. Proof the docs carefully, especially the death certificate. They do a good job of trying to get all the data correct the first time, but you need to review each box before it goes final.
2. Use phone (rather than email), if you need something right away.
3. Take notes when you talk to them. Your brain won't be working well - I wish I had taken more notes, especially on the "what happens next" type of stuff. They tell you, and if you don't write it down, you are likely to forget as soon as you are off the call.
4. Review their website. They have a lot of information on it.
5. My biggest worries before going with them were (1) were they going to treat the body respectfully (2) were the ashes i got back actually who they said it was. I was obsessed about this metal identification tag I read about, did they use it, etc. Ask questions if it is top of mind. What I ended up finding out is that most everyone (funeral homes and cremation companies) outsource the cremations to a couple of crematories around the state. You just need to figure out if you trust that they will do the tracking and monitoring process correctly. That's a judgement call that only you can make. read more
