The borough is situated on the north bank of the River Thames and the shield has representation of water, a fishing boat (a so-called Barking Well Smack, which was invented in the 18th century) and a cogwheel to represent the river's importance to the borough, its fishing industry and its industry in general.

[2] The tower is set before a rising sun, a symbol for progress, which was present in the arms of the former Borough of Dagenham, granted in 1936.

[2] The supporters are similar to those of the former Borough of Barking: the lions standing for the Cecil and Monteagle families while the torches represent the main industries from the time of the grant of the old arms, which were gas and electricity.

Crest: On a Wreath Argent and Azure in front of a demi Sun in splendour Or a representation of the Curfew Tower of Barking proper.

Supporters: On either side a Lion Or gorged with a Collar per pale Sable and Gules holding a Torched inflamed Or.