Standard protocol: an item that may contain human remains is always contianed in a body bag IF the item can fit in it, if not, the item is placed on the gurney and covered with a tarp that is "sealed" via ropes/bungee cording. The item is transported with its contents via the gurney in the ME van and received and signed in at the ME office. Then and only then will the "package" be opened and evaluated, frequently done under video camera recording and usually with the investigating detectives and others observing.
Just an FYI, from my experience