Semi-empirical methods for 210Pb self-attenuation corrections were applied to sediment samples in vial and cylindrical geometries, and were validated against Monte Carlo modelling. Full Monte Carlo modelling (GESPECOR code) of the Cutshall transmission method was successfully applied for the determination of mass attenuation coefficients and efficiency transfer factors for coaxial detectors, and compared with the values derived from the matrix chemical composition. Simplified approaches were recommended when dealing with large numbers of samples. •Semi-empirical methods for self-attenuation corrections of 210Pb are evaluated.•µ and ETF successfully determined by GESPECOR computation of the transmission experiment.•Simplified approaches for ETF determination are recommended for large number of samples.