With burial, the body is placed in a casket or alternative container. The body may or may not be embalmed. You can have a viewing, funeral or gathering of your choice then the body is buried in a cemetery. Although you are not required by law to purchase an outer burial container, many cemeteries have policies that require the use of an outer burial container for maintenance and safety purposes. The outer burial container, sometimes called a grave liner or vault, prevents gravesite damage caused by natural forces and the weight or pressure of machinery used in cemeteries.