Introduction
When speed matters, air cargo is the answer. Rialto businesses that ship high-value electronics, medical supplies, perishable goods, or urgent replacement parts depend on fast, reliable air freight. Fortunately, the city is located near two airports with significant cargo operations: Ontario International Airport and San Bernardino International Airport.
This guide reviews ten of the best air cargo companies serving Rialto, from integrated express carriers to dedicated freighter airlines and passenger carriers with cargo divisions.
The Inland Empire as an Air Cargo Hub
Ontario International Airport is one of the busiest cargo airports on the West Coast, with major operations from integrated carriers. San Bernardino International Airport has grown as a cargo hub with large e-commerce facilities. Together, these airports provide Rialto businesses with exceptional air freight capacity close to home.
Proximity to these airports reduces drayage time and costs, enabling later cutoff times and faster deliveries. This advantage is particularly important for e-commerce and healthcare supply chains.
The Top 10 Air Cargo Companies Serving Rialto
1. UPS Airlines
UPS operates a major West Coast air hub at Ontario International Airport, handling enormous volumes of packages and freight daily. Its integrated network combines air and ground services, providing fast delivery across the country and around the world.
2. FedEx Express
FedEx Express is the world's largest express transportation company, with significant operations at Ontario International Airport. It offers overnight and international express services, supported by advanced tracking and customs capabilities.
3. Amazon Air
Amazon Air operates a growing fleet of cargo aircraft supporting Amazon's e-commerce network. Its regional air hub at San Bernardino International Airport enables fast delivery for customers across the West, making it a major contributor to local cargo activity.
4. DHL Express
DHL Express offers international air express services with a strong global network. Businesses shipping to Asia, Europe, and Latin America rely on DHL's expertise in customs clearance and time-definite delivery.
5. Atlas Air
Atlas Air is one of the largest operators of Boeing 747 freighters, providing charter and contract cargo services. It supports e-commerce companies, freight forwarders, and logistics providers moving large volumes of goods internationally.
6. Kalitta Air
Kalitta Air operates a fleet of wide-body freighters offering charter and scheduled cargo services. It specializes in oversized, heavy, and time-critical shipments, including military and humanitarian cargo.
7. China Airlines Cargo
China Airlines Cargo provides air freight services between Asia and North America. Its transpacific network supports importers and exporters with connections through Taipei to destinations across Asia.
8. ABX Air
ABX Air provides contract cargo services for major e-commerce and express companies. It operates a fleet of Boeing freighters and supports regional and national delivery networks.
9. Southwest Cargo
Southwest Cargo leverages Southwest Airlines' passenger network to offer domestic air freight services. Its frequent flights and competitive pricing make it a cost-effective option for smaller time-sensitive shipments within the United States.
10. Delta Cargo
Delta Cargo uses the belly space of Delta Air Lines' passenger aircraft to transport freight domestically and internationally. It offers specialized services for pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value goods.
How to Choose an Air Cargo Partner
Consider shipment size, weight, destination, and urgency. Integrated carriers like UPS and FedEx are ideal for door-to-door express shipments, while freighter airlines and freight forwarders are better for larger loads and charters.
Evaluate service reliability, handling capabilities for special cargo, and customs expertise for international shipments. Compare total costs, including fuel surcharges and handling fees, and work with an experienced forwarder for complex shipments.
Air Cargo Trends
E-commerce continues to drive air cargo growth, particularly in the Inland Empire. Airlines are investing in more fuel-efficient freighters and sustainable aviation fuel. Digital booking platforms are improving transparency, while pharmaceutical and temperature-controlled cargo demand is increasing.
Industries That Rely on Air Cargo in Rialto
Several industries in and around Rialto depend heavily on air cargo. E-commerce companies use it to meet fast delivery promises, especially during peak shopping seasons. Healthcare providers and medical device companies rely on temperature-controlled air freight for pharmaceuticals and critical supplies. Electronics and automotive parts distributors use air cargo to replenish inventory quickly and avoid costly production delays.
Agricultural exporters in Southern California also use air freight to send fresh produce and flowers to international markets. For these industries, the proximity of Ontario and San Bernardino airports reduces trucking time and helps preserve product quality. Businesses that understand their air cargo needs can negotiate better rates, plan capacity in advance, and maintain stronger customer relationships.
Rialto shippers should also prepare accurate documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and dangerous goods declarations where required. Proper packaging and labeling prevent delays at screening checkpoints, and booking space early during peak seasons helps secure capacity when freighter demand is highest.
Final Thoughts
Rialto businesses enjoy exceptional access to air cargo thanks to nearby Ontario and San Bernardino airports. The companies above provide the speed, capacity, and expertise needed to move time-sensitive goods across the country and around the world.