Harvester hitch

The Harvester's hitch is a compound knot commonly used for securing loads on trucks or trailers. This uses loops and turns in the rope to form a simple block and tackle. It is known by multiple names. Trucker's hitch, dolly knot, lorry driver's hitch, hay knot, wagoner's hitch, rope tackle.

Variations

The variations of the harvester's hitch come from the methods used to form the loop which the working end slides through to produce the mechanical advantage. The different methods of forming the loop affect the ease and speed of tying and releasing and the stability of the final product.

Slipped overhand loop

The loop formed in one version is a simple Slipped overhand knot. This version is good for light to moderate loads.

Fixed loop

The most reliable variation uses a fixed loop, such as an alpine butterfly loop, Manharness knot, figure-eight loop or directional figure-eight loop.

If a fixed loop is used repeatedly for tying the harvester's hitch in the same portion of rope, some wear or damage may occur in the loop