Communicating with the bridge by VHF:
Kingsferry Bridge can be contacted on VHF Channel 10.
For craft without VHF:
Visual: The recognised visual signal for requesting a bridge lift is a bucket in the rigging.
Sound: The sound signal is one long blast followed by four short blasts.
Signals displayed by the bridge:
| Lights displayed | Meaning |
| None | Bridge in locked down position |
| Alternate flashing red and green | Bridge lifting sequence commenced |
| Fixed green | Bridge at maximum height |
| Flashing red | Bridge commenced descending |
| Flashing orange | Bridge unable to move keep clear |
Kingsferry Bridge clearance at mean high water springs (MHWS)*:
The centre span of Kingsferry Bridge lifts to allow the passage of vessels.
Clearance open: 28.96m (95.0′)
Clearance closed: 3.35m (11.0′)
Sheppey Crossing Clearance*:
Clearance: 29.02m (95.2′)
*Source: official tide tables for Sheerness (use data above at own risk).