When a load is to be moved between preselected points along a path such that its weight aids movement in one direction and opposes it in the other (for example when scenery supported from a hoist is to be moved between "deads" in a theater or studio), the supported load is initially weighed and a signal representing its weight is stored. This signal is extracted from store when movement between positions is required and is applied to the hoist driving system to provide a torque balancing the load weight before a brake on the hoist driving system is removed. Thereafter the load is moved to the new position, the brake is reapplied and the stored weight signal is removed from the driving system.