This paper presents two different models of electrorheological(ER) valves which can be applicable to an automatic cargo handling system at the seaport. Four different ER fluids, which are commercially available, are adopted and their Bingham characteristics are experimentally evaluated with respect to the intensity of electric field. The field-dependent Bingham models are used in the design of two types of ER valves; single-type and divided-type. The governing equations of motion of the ER valves are derived and the principal design parameters are determined based on 200ton platform to be vertically controlled by the ER valves. Both pressure drops due to the applied field and current density required to operate the ER valves are analyzed. In addition, the pressure drops of the cylinder system are evaluated for both ER valves.