What document must be obtained before transporting a body across state lines?

To transport a body across state lines, it is essential to obtain a death certificate. This document serves as the official record of the individual's death and is required for legal purposes during the transportation process. The death certificate provides necessary information about the deceased, such as the cause of death and the identity of the person, which can be important for compliance with both state and federal regulations governing the transportation of human remains.

In addition to its role in the transportation process, the death certificate is vital for various administrative functions, such as settling the deceased's estate and facilitating the burial or cremation process. The absence of a death certificate would create significant legal and logistical hurdles, potentially delaying the transport and creating complications with authorities in both the originating and destination states.