The site, on the South Bank of the Thames, is ideally situated for both national and international traffic. It is just minutes from the centre of the capital, yet is also easily accessible from London's two main airports, the south and east coastal ports and the road links to the country's motorway network. London's mainline railway stations and tube network are also nearby, making for easy access for workers. Speed is of the essence for traders and customers alike, so much attention has been paid to providing quick and easy access for vehicles delivery and collecting produce - on average some 4,500 vehicles visit the market each day but at busy times the number can reach 6,000. Facilities for the efficient handling of produce and economical use of space and weather protection are also of paramount importance and New Covent Garden has been constructed with these aims in mind.
Porters are an important part of the market's functioning.
An equally strong emphasis has been placed on security, with widespread use of video surveillance systems and 24 hour security staffing provided by the Market Authority. There are two main buildings - the Fruit and Vegetable Market, with its annex the Pavilion, and the Flower Market. They have each been designed to facilitate the individual trading requirements of the two sectors, and although they operate separately, New Covent Garden's internal roads make it easy to do business with both sections. Efficiency was a major factor in determining the size and layout of the buildings. The internal layout of the individual trading units allows traders to make the most productive use of their space.