Rope & Tackle

The use of a rope and tackle is one of the first tests for new movers to see if they have what it takes to be a mover. We remember the first times we struggled to lift a few boxes up. Through the years we have gained a lot of experience with this and we would like to tell you more about it.

Rope & Tackle: A Historical Moving Technique

Rope and tackle is the predecessor of the modern moving lift and was used extensively in cities like Amsterdam. This technique was essential for moving goods to and from the old warehouses along the canals. Amsterdam still has approximately 50,000 buildings with a hoist pole with a pulley attached. These poles and pulleys formed the heart of the system used to lift large or heavy objects through windows and window openings.

The narrow staircases in the old buildings of Amsterdam were deliberately designed to keep the living space as large as possible. As a result, it was almost impossible to get large objects up or down the stairs. The characteristic hoist poles, which can still be seen in the streetscape, testify to this ingenious solution.

Sloping Facades: Fact or Fiction?

In Amsterdam, the many sloping facades stand out. It is often believed that this architectural style is specifically designed for the use of rope and tackle. The theory is that a sloping facade prevents the rope from rubbing against the wall or that heavy goods at the time of lifting accidentally damage the facade or windows. Furthermore, the risk that the object hits the wall of the neighbors, here reduced.

Although this explanation sounds logical, it is not the primary reason for the sloping facades. Another theory suggests that the slope of the facades helps to protect the wooden frames of the windows against heavy rain. In addition, the sloping facades make it easier for passersby to better appreciate the often imposing and ornate facades. It is therefore likely that a combination of practical and aesthetic considerations led to this unique architectural feature.

History of Rope & Tackle

The technique of rope and tackle has been used in Amsterdam since the 17th century. At that time, Amsterdam was the main storage and trading center of Europe, where goods from all over the world were stored and traded. With the help of rope and tackle, heavy goods were lifted in the warehouses or transported outside. The use of this method was essential because the narrow staircases in the buildings did not provide enough space for the transport of large objects. The use of a rope and tackle is therefore an ancient artisanal technique that is still used today.

When is Rope & Tackle Needed?

Rope and tackle is primarily used when there are moving items that do not fit through the staircase. Think of large furniture, such as cabinets or other large objects. These are then lifted through a window or a specially created opening in the facade. Even with modern techniques, this method is still often used, especially in historic buildings where modern moving lifts cannot be placed.

How Does It Work?