What does "receiving remains" mean in a funeral context?

In the context of funerals, "receiving remains" refers specifically to the services provided by one funeral home or firm after initial arrangements have been made by another funeral home. This typically occurs when a deceased person is transferred to a different location for services; for example, if a family prefers to have services held at a local funeral home rather than where the deceased was originally prepared. The receiving funeral home takes over the responsibilities, which may include preparation of the remains for viewing or a funeral service at their facility.

The other options describe related funeral processes but do not specifically define "receiving remains." For instance, the initial preparation of remains for burial refers to the embalming or preparation that might take place before any funeral service can occur, but it does not capture the element of receiving remains from another firm. Transporting remains involves the physical movement of the deceased, rather than the service aspect inherent in "receiving." Lastly, storing remains until a funeral can be held is focused on the aspect of holding the remains rather than the transfer and oversight processes that occur in conjunction with receiving remains from another funeral service provider.