A columbarium is a facility used to store the ashes of the deceased. As people place increasing importance on funeral and burial practices, more villages and public cemeteries are choosing to purchase columbaria to preserve ashes as a way to honor departed loved ones. When selecting a columbarium, key factors to consider include price, material, size, craftsmanship, and quantity. Let Sales Manager: Mr. Luo from HuaHeng Columbarium Factory, Jiangxi, China walk you through these aspects.

1. Price
   The price of a columbarium varies based on brand, material, size, and craftsmanship. Generally, market prices range from a few hundred to several thousand RMB per unit. For example, the basic units we supply to villages cost just over ¥100 each, while some temples and commercial memorial halls purchase high-end units for over ¥3,000 each. When making a selection, it’s important to consider your actual budget and needs rather than blindly pursuing luxury or big names.

2. Material
   Common materials used for columbaria include wood, metal, stone, and plastic. Wooden units offer a warm feeling and are suitable for small-scale use. Metal columbaria have a modern, clean aesthetic, while stone versions convey dignity and solemnity. The choice of material should take into account the installation environment and budget. While stone was widely used in the past, metal is now more common due to its affordability, variety of styles, and—most importantly—durability.

3. Size
   The dimensions of the columbarium should be determined based on the available space and the size of the urn. There are general requirements for height and width—it should neither be too tall nor too wide. Always consider your actual needs rather than opting for excessively large sizes. A standard single niche measures 400mm (W) × 300mm (H) × 300mm (D), while a double niche is typically 700mm (W) × 300mm (H) × 300mm (D).

4. Craftsmanship
   Craftsmanship details such as carving, inlay work, and color finish contribute to the artistic and perceived value of the unit. For example, standard aluminum alloy doors may feature a lotus motif, while higher-end versions include interior lighting and colored glass elements. Those premium units priced above ¥3,000 often feature doors made from pressure-cast aluminum-magnesium alloy, which is extremely durable and built to last.

5. Quantity
   Quantity is another important factor when purchasing a columbarium. A practical approach is to estimate based on the local population’s mortality rate over a 30-year period. For instance, a town with 30,000 residents and an annual mortality rate of 0.6% would require:
   30,000 × 0.006 × 30 = 5,400 units.

In summary, Mr. Luo, Sales Manager at HuaHeng Columbarium Factory, Jiangxi, China, recommends considering all the above factors—price, material, size, craftsmanship, and quantity—when selecting a columbarium. Choosing the right product will better serve the purpose of honoring and remembering those who have passed.