Buying a headstone used to mean visiting a local monument dealer and paying whatever they quoted. Now you can order custom grave markers online—often saving 30–60% compared to cemetery prices—and have them shipped directly to the burial site.
This guide walks you through where to shop, what to look for in a seller, how the ordering process works, and the cemetery rules you'll want to check before placing an order.
Can you really buy a headstone online
Yes, buying a headstone online is completely legitimate—and it's become a popular choice for families looking to save money without sacrificing quality. Reputable retailers like Legacy Headstones, Signature Headstones, and Markers & Headstones Co. offer custom grave markers with direct shipping to cemeteries across the country. Most online sellers price their headstones 30–60% lower than local monument dealers because they cut out the middleman.
Here's the deal: the FTC's Funeral Rule protects your right to buy funeral products from any seller you choose. Cemeteries cannot legally refuse a headstone you purchased elsewhere, and they can't charge you extra just for accepting it. So if you've been wondering whether online headstone shopping is "allowed"—it absolutely is.
The process works a lot like ordering other custom products online. You browse styles, enter your text and design preferences, approve a digital proof, and the company ships directly to your cemetery. It's more straightforward than most people expect.
Is it cheaper to buy a headstone online than through a cemetery
Usually, yes. Online headstone retailers work on a factory-direct model, which means you're not paying the markup that cemeteries and local monument dealers typically add. The exact savings depend on what you're ordering, but families often save several hundred to a few thousand dollars on comparable products.
Why the price difference? A few reasons:
- No middleman markup: Online sellers ship direct from manufacturers
- Transparent pricing: You see the price upfront—no negotiation or hidden fees
- Competition: Multiple online retailers competing keeps prices honest
- Included shipping: Many sellers bundle free shipping into the quoted price
One thing to keep in mind: your cemetery will likely charge a separate installation fee (called a "setting fee") regardless of where you buy the headstone. Factor that into your budget when comparing options.
Where to buy headstones and grave markers online
You've got several routes to explore, and each one has its own strengths.
Direct-to-consumer headstone retailers
Specialty companies like Legacy Headstones, Signature Headstones, Markers & Headstones Co., and The Headstone Guys focus exclusively on grave markers. They typically offer online design tools, a wide range of styles and materials, and customer service teams who understand cemetery requirements. If you want guidance through the process, these retailers are a solid starting point.
Online monument and memorial companies
Some traditional monument companies have expanded into e-commerce and now ship nationwide. These businesses often have decades of experience and can handle more elaborate or personalized monuments. You'll usually work with their team on custom designs and receive a proof before production begins.
General marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart
Yes, Amazon and Walmart sell headstones—mostly basic flat markers and smaller memorial plaques. Selection is more limited, and customization options tend to be fewer than what you'd find at specialty retailers. That said, if you're looking for something simple and want a familiar checkout experience, these marketplaces can work.
Types of headstones you can order online
Online retailers carry the same headstone styles you'd find at a local monument dealer. The main categories break down by shape and how the marker sits on the grave.
Flat grave markers
Flat markers lie flush with the ground and are typically the most affordable option. Many cemeteries actually require flat markers in certain sections because they make lawn maintenance easier. They're usually made of granite or bronze and offer plenty of space for engraving.
Upright headstones
This is the traditional vertical monument with a base—what most people picture when they hear "headstone." Uprights are more visible from a distance, though some cemeteries restrict them to specific areas. Always check your cemetery's rules before ordering one.
Slant and bevel markers
Slant markers sit at an angle, offering a middle ground between flat and upright styles. They're easier to read than flat markers while being less imposing than full uprights. Bevel markers are similar but with a gentler slope.
Granite, marble, and bronze options
Material choice affects durability, appearance, and price:
|
Material |
Durability |
Maintenance |
Best For |
|
Granite |
Highest |
Low |
Most climates, long-term durability |
|
Marble |
Moderate |
Higher (weathers over time) |
Traditional, classic look |
|
Bronze |
High |
Periodic cleaning |
Flat markers, military-style memorials |
Granite dominates the market because it holds up well in all weather and takes engraving beautifully.
How much online headstones cost
Prices vary widely based on size, material, and how much customization you want. Here's a general sense of the range:
- Flat markers: Basic options often start around $200–$500, with custom granite markers ranging from $500–$1,500
- Slant and bevel markers: Typically $800–$2,000
- Upright headstones: Usually $1,000–$3,000+, with elaborate monuments costing more
What drives the price up or down?
- Size and style: Larger uprights cost more than small flat markers
- Material grade: Premium granite costs more than standard grades
- Customization: Laser etching, ceramic photos, and complex designs add to the base price
- Shipping: Many online sellers include free shipping, but always confirm
Pro tip: Ask for an itemized quote so you know exactly what's included before you commit.
How to order a headstone online step by step
The process is more straightforward than you might think. Here's how it typically goes:
1. Choose the style, size, and material
Start by browsing options and narrowing down based on your cemetery's requirements and your personal preferences. Most online retailers let you filter by type, material, and price range.
2. Design the engraving, symbols, and photos
Most retailers offer design tools where you enter text, choose fonts, and select symbols or religious imagery. Many also offer laser-etched photos—you upload a high-resolution image, and they engrave it directly onto the stone.
3. Confirm cemetery specs and get approval
This step is crucial. Call your cemetery before finalizing your order to confirm allowed sizes, material restrictions, foundation requirements, and any permits or approvals you'll need. Skipping this step can result in a headstone your cemetery won't accept.
4. Place your order and review the proof
Reputable sellers send a digital proof showing exactly how your headstone will look—layout, text, symbols, everything. Review it carefully for spelling, dates, and design accuracy. This is your last chance to catch errors before production begins.
5. Schedule delivery and installation
Headstones ship via freight carrier due to their weight. Most sellers can ship directly to your cemetery, though you'll want to coordinate with the cemetery office on delivery timing and who will receive it.
How to vet an online headstone seller
Buying a headstone online can feel uncertain, especially if you've never done it before. You're not alone in wanting reassurance that you're dealing with a legitimate company.
Granite grade and material quality
Ask about the granite grade—"Grade A" or "premium" granite is denser and more durable. Reputable sellers are happy to explain where their stone comes from. If a company is vague about materials, that's a red flag.
Warranty and satisfaction guarantee
Look for sellers offering multi-year or lifetime warranties against defects. A satisfaction guarantee gives you recourse if something arrives damaged or doesn't match your approved proof.
Customer support, reviews, and turnaround time
Check customer reviews on Google, the Better Business Bureau, or the company's website. Verify that phone or chat support is available—you want to reach a real person if questions come up. Also ask about production and delivery timeframes before ordering, since custom headstones typically take 4–12 weeks.
How shipping, delivery, and installation work
Headstones are heavy—even a modest flat marker can weigh 50+ pounds, while upright monuments often weigh several hundred pounds. Here's how the logistics typically work:
- Freight delivery: Headstones ship on pallets via truck, not standard parcel carriers
- Delivery location: Most sellers ship directly to the cemetery; confirm the cemetery's receiving process
- Installation (setting): Often separate from the headstone purchase—some cemeteries require using their staff, while others allow outside installers
- Setting fees: Cemeteries commonly charge $100–$500+ to install a marker, depending on size and type
When you order, clarify whether the seller coordinates installation or if you'll arrange it separately with the cemetery.
Cemetery rules to check before you buy
Every cemetery has its own regulations, and they vary widely. Checking these rules before you order saves time, money, and frustration.
Size and material restrictions
Many cemeteries limit headstone dimensions—especially height for uprights. Some sections only allow flat markers. Certain cemeteries restrict materials to granite or bronze only. Get these specs in writing before you shop.
Installation fees and setting permits
Most cemeteries charge a setting fee to install your headstone, even if you bought it elsewhere. Some also require a permit or scheduled installation appointment. Ask about these costs upfront.
Foundation and marker requirements
Some cemeteries require a concrete foundation poured before the headstone is set. Clarify who handles this—the cemetery, the headstone seller, or a third-party contractor—and what it costs.
Frequently asked questions about buying headstones online
Does Amazon sell headstones?
Yes, Amazon sells a limited selection of flat grave markers and small memorial plaques from third-party sellers. Customization options are typically more limited than specialty headstone retailers.
What does putting two pennies on a grave mean?
Placing two pennies on a grave is a military tradition indicating you trained with the deceased at boot camp. Different coin denominations carry different meanings when left on service members' graves.
How long does an online headstone take to arrive?
Most custom headstones take 4–12 weeks from order to delivery due to engraving and production time. Simple flat markers may ship faster.
Can you buy a headstone before someone passes away?
Yes, many families purchase headstones in advance as part of pre-planning. This allows you to choose the design you want and often lock in current pricing.
What happens if an online headstone arrives damaged?
Reputable online headstone sellers offer satisfaction guarantees and will replace or refund headstones damaged during shipping. Document any damage with photos immediately upon delivery and contact the seller right away.
