The cost of the funeral varies depending on the wishes you have. The cost includes all professional services, including transportation, embalming and other preparation of the remains, the use of a funeral home for the ceremony and the purchase of a coffin/casket or urn. Funeral directors work an average of 40 hours per funeral. The cost of operating a funeral home is factored into the cost as well. Funeral homes are a 24-hour operation, with extensive facilities that need to be maintained. Click here to read more about Funeral Costs.