Label alignment issues are the most common problem when printing labels. This guide covers the most frequent causes and solutions to help you get perfectly aligned labels every time.
Before You Start Troubleshooting
First, verify these basics:
- You're using the correct label template for your label paper
- Your label paper matches the product code you selected in Label Maker
- You've done a test print on regular paper
Pro tip: Always print on plain paper first. Hold the printed page against your label sheet (with light behind it) to check alignment before using actual labels.
Common Alignment Issues
Issue 1: Labels Are Offset in One Direction
Symptom: All labels print too far left, right, up, or down.
Cause: Print margins are not set to "None"
Solution:
- Go to File → Print
- Click More settings
- Set Margins to None
- Make sure Scale is set to 100% (not "Fit to page")
Issue 2: Labels Gradually Get More Offset
Symptom: First row is fine, but each subsequent row is increasingly misaligned.
Cause: The document is being scaled to fit the page
Solution:
- In print settings, find the Scale option
- Change from "Fit to page" to 100% or Actual size
- If you can't find this setting, try: More settings → Scale → Default
Issue 3: Labels Don't Match the Template at All
Symptom: The printed layout is completely different from your label sheet.
Cause: Wrong template selected
Solution:
- Check the product code on your label packaging (e.g., "Avery 5160")
- In Label Maker, search for that exact product code
- Verify dimensions match your label sheet
- If you can't find your exact template, contact us to request it
Issue 4: Part of the Page Doesn't Print
Symptom: Labels are cut off at the edges.
Cause: Wrong paper size in print settings
Solution:
- Check that paper size is set to Letter (8.5 x 11) or A4 as appropriate
- Match the paper size to your actual label sheet size
- Some label sheets are slightly smaller than standard paper—select the correct size
Correct Print Dialog Settings
For best results, use these exact settings:
Google Chrome Print Settings
- Destination: Your printer
- Pages: All (or specific pages)
- Layout: Portrait
- Paper size: Letter or A4
- Margins: None
- Scale: Default (100%)
- Options: Uncheck "Headers and footers"
Print to PDF, Then Print
If you're still having issues, try this method:
- In Google Docs, go to File → Download → PDF Document
- Open the PDF in Adobe Reader or your system PDF viewer
- Print from the PDF with these settings:
- Page Sizing: Actual size (not "Fit")
- Orientation: Portrait
Important: Never use "Fit to page" or "Shrink to fit" options—these will scale your labels and cause misalignment.
Printer-Specific Issues
Unprintable Margins
Some printers have a physical limitation and cannot print to the very edge of the paper.
Solutions:
- Check your printer specifications for minimum margins
- Use label templates designed for your printer's limitations
- Consider a borderless-capable printer for edge-to-edge printing
Paper Feed Issues
Labels may shift during printing if not fed properly.
Solutions:
- Fan label sheets before loading to prevent sticking
- Load only a few sheets at a time
- Use the manual/bypass tray for label sheets
- Adjust paper guides to fit snugly against the sheets
Inkjet vs. Laser Labels
Using the wrong label type for your printer can cause issues:
- Inkjet labels - Have a coating that absorbs ink; may smear in laser printers
- Laser labels - Can withstand high heat; inkjet ink may bead up on them
- Always match label type to your printer type
Software and Browser Issues
Browser Zoom
If your browser is zoomed in or out, it can affect printing.
- Reset zoom to 100%: Press Ctrl/Cmd + 0
- Try printing again
Try a Different Browser
If issues persist, try printing from a different browser:
- Google Chrome (recommended)
- Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Edge
The Test Print Method
This foolproof method helps identify alignment issues:
- Print your labels on plain paper
- Take a blank sheet of your label paper
- Hold both sheets together against a light source (window or lamp)
- Check if the printed content aligns with the labels
- Note which direction the alignment is off
- Adjust settings and repeat until aligned
Still Having Issues?
If you've tried all these solutions and still have problems:
- Check the label product code - Make absolutely sure it matches
- Try a different label brand - Some generic labels have slightly different dimensions
- Contact support - Email info@labelmaker.co with:
- Your label product code
- Screenshot of your print settings
- Photo of your misaligned test print
- Your printer model
Success tip: Once you find settings that work, save them! Write down your exact print settings or save a PDF with correct settings for future reference.