What is the difference between a Transfer Service Operator and a Funeral Director ?

A Transfer Service Operator is licensed only to remove the deceased from the place of death to the crematorium (or place of final disposition) and obtain the required legal documents. The funeral would need to be arranged and conducted by the family without the guidance of a funeral director. This is referred to as Direct Disposition. Funerals are usually arranged and conducted by licensed and trained funeral directors who coordinate all the technical arrangements of a funeral and provide guidance that includes applying for all the death benefits to which you are entitled. Although a funeral director can provide direct disposition, he is also licensed to prepare the body for viewing (if desired) and for arranging the final disposition, providing facilities for the visitation and funeral service, and transporting the deceased and the mourners to the place of final disposition. ... more