memorial-accessories

Temporary Grave Markers: Purpose, Materials & Options

Temporary grave markers , what they are, when they are used, materials, costs, and how they differ from permanent headstones. headstones.

By The Editorial Team · Reviewed by Editorial · Updated June 18, 2026 · 5 min read

Temporary grave markers are placed at a gravesite between the time of burial and the installation of a permanent headstone or marker. They serve three purposes. They identify the grave so visitors, cemetery staff, and emergency services can locate it. They mark the grave with the deceased’s name and dates while the family selects and orders a permanent marker. They carry a basic level of dignity and recognition during the period when the permanent marker is being designed, ordered, and fabricated.

Most cemeteries require or strongly encourage temporary markers. The window between burial and permanent marker installation can range from a few weeks (if the family has a stock marker ready) to several months (if the permanent marker is custom-designed, cast, and installed). During that window, the temporary marker is the only identification at the site.

Common materials

The most common temporary marker material is a printed metal stake, a thin aluminum or galvanized steel sign on a wire or rod stake that pushes into the ground. The stake carries the name, dates, and a simple inscription printed or engraved on the metal. These are inexpensive ($15 to $50 each) and can be produced and shipped within days. They are widely used by funeral homes and cemetery supply companies.

Another common option is a wooden cross or stake. Many funeral homes provide a wooden cross as part of their services; cemeteries often have extras on hand. The cross is typically a simple shape with the name and dates painted or printed on it. Wooden crosses are inexpensive ($10 to $30) and can be made within hours but are not as durable as metal markers.

Some families use a temporary stone or paver, a small engraved or printed stone that serves as the marker until the permanent headstone is installed. These are heavier and more durable than metal stakes but take longer to produce and cost more ($50 to $150). They are appropriate when the family wants a more substantial appearance during the waiting period.

Information to Include

A temporary grave marker should carry enough information to identify the grave and locate the family if needed. The standard contents include:

  • Full name (first, middle, last)
  • Date of birth
  • Date of death
  • Optional: a short inscription or phrase

Some families add the funeral home name and a contact number. Some cemeteries add a plot number on the back of the marker for their own records. Photographs are not typically included on temporary markers.

The text should be readable from a few feet away. Standard temporary markers are 6x18 to 8x24 inches; the text is printed in a large enough size to read at a glance. The marker is usually placed at the head of the grave, oriented so the text faces the most common viewing angle.

How long temporary markers last

A printed metal stake lasts one to three years outdoors, depending on the climate and exposure. Wooden crosses last one to two seasons. A small stone or paver lasts indefinitely. Most temporary markers are removed and disposed of when the permanent headstone is installed; some families keep the temporary marker as a keepsake.

The cemetery may have specific rules about what kinds of temporary markers are allowed and how long they may stay. Some cemeteries require removal within six months; others allow them until the permanent marker is installed. Confirm the cemetery’s rules before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

What is a temporary grave marker? A temporary grave marker is a small sign placed at a gravesite between the time of burial and the installation of a permanent headstone. It identifies the grave with the deceased's name and dates. Common materials include printed metal stakes, wooden crosses, and small engraved stones. Temporary markers typically cost $10 to $150. How long does it take to install a permanent headstone? Standard production is two to four weeks from artwork approval. Custom cast bronze markers take three to six weeks because of foundry scheduling. Upright granite headstones take six to twelve weeks because of cutting, polishing, and finishing time. The temporary marker stays in place until the permanent marker is installed. Does the funeral home provide a temporary marker? Many funeral homes provide a temporary wooden cross or marker as part of their services, included in the overall funeral costs. Some cemeteries also provide temporary markers. Confirm what is included before the service so you know whether to order additional markers. What information goes on a temporary grave marker? The standard contents are the deceased's full name, date of birth, and date of death. Optional additions include a short inscription or phrase. Some markers include the funeral home name and contact number. Plot numbers may be added on the back by the cemetery. Can I keep the temporary marker as a keepsake? Yes. Some families keep the temporary marker as a memento of the period between burial and the permanent marker installation. Wooden crosses in particular are often kept and displayed at home. Printed metal stakes are usually disposed of but can be kept if desired.

References

The following sources informed the guidance on this page:

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Questions, answered

What is a temporary grave marker?
A temporary grave marker is a small sign placed at a gravesite between the time of burial and the installation of a permanent headstone. It identifies the grave with the deceased's name and dates. Common materials include printed metal stakes, wooden crosses, and small engraved stones. Temporary markers typically cost $10 to $150.
How long does it take to install a permanent headstone?
Standard production is two to four weeks from artwork approval. Custom cast bronze markers take three to six weeks because of foundry scheduling. Upright granite headstones take six to twelve weeks because of cutting, polishing, and finishing time. The temporary marker stays in place until the permanent marker is installed.
Does the funeral home provide a temporary marker?
Many funeral homes provide a temporary wooden cross or marker as part of their services, included in the overall funeral costs. Some cemeteries also provide temporary markers. Confirm what is included before the service so you know whether to order additional markers.
What information goes on a temporary grave marker?
The standard contents are the deceased's full name, date of birth, and date of death. Optional additions include a short inscription or phrase. Some markers include the funeral home name and contact number. Plot numbers may be added on the back by the cemetery.
Can I keep the temporary marker as a keepsake?
Yes. Some families keep the temporary marker as a memento of the period between burial and the permanent marker installation. Wooden crosses in particular are often kept and displayed at home. Printed metal stakes are usually disposed of but can be kept if desired.

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