Trucker’s Hitch

The Trucker’s Hitch is a go to knot for securing loads on trucks, and trailers or even for tightening the tarps and tent ridgelines.

It creates a theoretical 3:1 mechanical advantage when tightened, though the ratio is much less in reality due to friction.

It’s composed of three components:

• A loop knot that creates an eye
• 3:1 Purchase
• Two Half Hitches to secure the hitch

Let’s learn it in detail.

How to Tie the Trucker’s Hitch Knot

To tie the Trucker’s Hitch, first tie a Directional Figure of 8 Knot on the standing end of the rope. Then, take the rope, loop it around the anchor point and back through the Directional Figure 8 loop. At last, pull it tight and tie Two-half hitches.

1. Tie a Directional Figure 8 Knot.
2. Pass the tail round the hook and back through the loop.
3. Pull the line tight.
4. Secure the knot with two Half hitches.

Variation of the Trucker’s Hitch

There are several variations to tie the Trucker’s Hitch with the primary difference being how the loop is formed.

Here are some common options:

• Slipped Overhand Loop: The Slipped Overhand Loop is easy to untie it quickly if you need to adjust the position of the knot. It’s used for light to moderate loads.
• Fixed loops: You can also use fixed loops like the Figure 8 Loop, Alpine Butterfly Loop, Artillery Loop, and Bowline on a Bight. It’s more secure but if a fixed loop is used repeatedly in the same spot, it might damage that section of the rope.

Finishing the Hitch

Once you pull the knot tight, the Trucker’s Hitch is secured with two Half Hitches.

For heavy loads, this method is more secure. But, it can jam and may be difficult to untie.

To avoid this, a Slipped Half Hitch is used so it’s easy to untie the knot later.

It’s also possible to finish the knot with a Tautline Hitch or a Farrimond Friction Hitch.

Application and Uses

• Secure loads like canoes, kayaks and other loads on vehicles
• Tighten the tent and tarp ridgelines
• Setting up hammocks
• Create a secure clothesline while camping.

Pros and Cons

Pros 

• Easy to tie and untie
• Easy to tighten because of the 3:1 mechanical advantage
• Strong and secure

Cons

• Both Directional Figure 8 and the Two Half Hitches can jam and be difficult to untie.
• Damage the material if pulled too tight.

Alternatives

Quick Release Trucker’s Hitch

The Quick Release Trucker’s Hitch (ABoK #2126) is a slight variation of the Trucker’s Hitch.

It’s based on the Bell Ringer’s Knot.

It’s the easiest and quickest way to secure the load and release it, but is less dependable.

Auto Locking Trucker’s Hitch

The Auto Locking Trucker’s Hitch is similar to the regular Trucker’s Hitch.

The working end is looped through the loop of the Slip Knot or the Directional Figure 8 Knot Loop twice. 

It adds friction to the knot, so it won’t come loose.

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