Trucker's Hitch
Also called: trucker's knot
A cinching system that builds a simple pulley into a rope so you can pull a tie-down much tighter than by hand.
- Type
- Hitches
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Good for
- Camping, Hunting
What it is for
- Tightening a tarp, ridgeline, or load strapped to a roof rack, trailer, or canoe
- Cinching a canoe or kayak to a car
- Any tie-down where you need extra tension
How to tie it
- Tie one end of the rope to a fixed anchor, then form a loop in the standing part a few feet along, such as with a slipknot or a figure-eight on a bight.
- Pass the working end around the far anchor and back through the loop you made, like a pulley.
- Pull the working end back toward you to cinch the line tight. The loop acts like a pulley and gives extra pull.
- While holding the tension, lock the hitch by tying two half hitches around the standing part.
- Check the tension and the knots.
There are no diagrams on this page yet. Tie it along with the steps using a short piece of cord, and compare your result with a photograph or an instructor before you rely on it.
Tips
- Use a loop that does not jam, such as a figure-eight on a bight, so it releases easily.
- Do not over-tighten against soft gear or tree bark.
When not to trust it
- Friction in the system reduces the extra pull you get.
- Too much tension can damage gear, trees, or a canoe hull.
- It is not a safe system for hauling people or heavy loads that can hurt someone if it fails.
Field notes
The trucker's hitch is a handy trick for a tarp ridgeline or a load on a vehicle. It is a bit fiddly the first few times, so practice at home.
Related guides
This page explains how to tie an everyday knot. It is not training for climbing, rappelling, tree stand fall protection, or rescue. If a failure could injure someone, learn from a qualified instructor and use equipment rated for the job.