Who Is Responsible for Transporting the Body After Death in Ohio?

When a loved one passes away, especially unexpectedly or outside of a hospital setting, families are often left wondering what happens next—and who is responsible for transporting the body. In Ohio, this process depends on a few key factors, including the location of death, whether the death was expected, and whether the coroner or hospice is involved.

At Allen Mortuary Services, we specialize in compassionate, 24/7 body removal and mortuary transport for funeral homes, hospitals, and families across Ohio. Here's what you need to know if you’re facing this situation for the first time.

What Happens Immediately After a Death?

The first step depends on where the death occurred:

• If at a hospital or hospice: A doctor or nurse typically pronounces death. In most cases, the funeral home you've chosen will be contacted, and a mortuary transport company like Allen Mortuary Services will handle removal on their behalf.
• If at home (expected death): If the person was under hospice care, the hospice nurse will confirm the death and assist in calling your chosen funeral home.
• If at home (unexpected death): 911 should be called, and the police or emergency medical services will arrive. In these cases, the county coroner may take custody of the body to determine the cause of death before release.

Who Is Legally Responsible for Body Transport?

• Coroner/Medical Examiner: If a death is considered suspicious or sudden, the body may be transported to the county coroner’s facility for examination. The coroner arranges this transport, often through a contracted mortuary transport service.
• Funeral Home: Once the body is released, the funeral home is responsible for arranging transportation. Many funeral homes outsource to professional transport companies to ensure prompt and respectful service.
• Family Members: In Ohio, families may arrange their own transport in rare cases, but this is discouraged due to legal, emotional, and logistical concerns.

The Role of a Mortuary Transport Company

Mortuary transport providers like Allen Mortuary Services step in on behalf of the funeral home, hospital, hospice, or coroner to retrieve the deceased and deliver them to the appropriate facility—whether that’s a funeral home, crematory, or medical examiner.

We ensure:

• Compliance with all state and federal transport regulations
• Proper documentation, ID verification, and dignity in handling
• 24/7 availability across Lima, Allen County, and greater Ohio

Who Should You Call?

 Situation Who to Call?     

Death at home under hospice Hospice → Funeral Home   

Death at hospital Funeral Home   Sudden death at home 911 → Coroner   

Out-of-state death Local authorities → Funeral Home → Transport company   

No funeral home chosen yet Allen Mortuary Services can assist!

Allen Mortuary Services: Trusted Transport Across Ohio

When every moment matters, you need a team that acts with urgency and compassion. Allen Mortuary Services is available 24/7 to assist with body removal and decedent transport, working closely with funeral homes, hospitals, and coroners throughout Ohio.

If you have questions or need immediate assistance, contact us at
📞 (419) 615-6159 or visit www.allenmortuaryservices.com