Do you have to request a runway crossing even if the particular runway is not in use? if so, do you refer to this runway by the side that is closest to you?
How do you judge which side ‘would’ be in use? By the colors (orange/green = ‘would’ be in use?)? what if both ends are orange?
Controllers are encouraged to issue anticipated runway crossings in advance wherever possible, traffic permitting of course. The publicly available IFATC manual section 5.3 deals with these issues and will answer your questions.
Guess what, I read the manual numerous times, and I know it recommends this. But thus far in my ES experience I have never been issued a runway crossing in advance.
If I am a ground controller and I know you are crossing an inactive runway, I will send you a crossing command before you get to the runway so you dont have to stop, ask for crossing, and then me give it. Im not saying to clear the crossing at the gate but prior to the crossing.
Now if its an active runway you will most likely have to stop in case there is traffic. But a good controller will look ahead to make life easier.