When printing labels, one of the most common issue is skipping labels. For small businesses and eCommerce sellers who depend on efficient shipping, this problem can waste labels, slow down operations, and create unnecessary costs. The good news is that skipping labels is easy to fix if you know where to look.
The most common reason behind this issue ids incorrect label settings. In fact, the majority of users who report skipping labels eventually find that the cause was simply a mismatch between their label type and the printer configuration. That;s why your first troubleshooting step should always be to double-check your settings.
In most cases, skipping labels happens because the printer settings don’t match the labels. To fix this:
1. Select Printer (The one you are currently using).
2. Select the correct label roll (for example, Dymo 30334).
3. Select Fit.
Always check that the “Fit” or “Fit to Page” option is enabled in your print dialog. Without this, the image or text may shift slightly outside the printable area, confusing the printer and resulting in skipped labels.
Look at the screenshot below for the steps
Other Possible Causes of Skipping Labels
If adjusting the settings does not solve the problem, there are several other reasons your labels might be skipping. These issues are less common but still worth checking.
1. Dirty Sensor
Thermal label printers rely on sensors to detect the gaps between labels. If the sensor is dirty, the printer may not read the gaps correctly, causing it to feed multiple labels or stop in the wrong place. The fix is simple:
Turn off the printer and unplug it.
Use a cotton swab with a small amount of alcohol to gently clean the sensor area.
Allow the sensor to dry completely before turning the machine back on.
A quick cleaning often restores the sensor’s ability to detect labels accurately.
2. Printer Needs Calibration
Sometimes the printer loses track of where the label begins and ends. In this case, recalibrating the machine is necessary. Most thermal printers include a calibration feature, often done by pressing and holding the Feed button until the printer prints a test label. Repeat this step a few times until the printer consistently feeds one label at a time. Calibration ensures that your printer “learns” the correct size and spacing of your labels.
3. Incorrect Label Installation
Another frequent issue occurs when labels are not loaded properly. New users, in particular, may struggle with aligning the labels inside the machine. If the roll is crooked or not firmly seated in the guides, the printer may fail to detect the edges. The best way to check your installation is to compare it against a video tutorial for your exact printer brand and label model. Many manufacturers, including Dymo, Brother, and Zebra, provide helpful step-by-step videos. Taking two minutes to review these instructions can save you from wasting an entire roll of labels.
Conclusion
Skipping labels can feel like a major hassle, but in most cases the solution is straightforward. Start with the basics: confirm that your printer settings match your label model and size. If that doesn’t work, check for dirt on the sensor, recalibrate the printer, and make sure the labels are loaded correctly. With these simple fixes, you can get back to smooth, reliable printing in just a few minutes.
For business owners, especially those in eCommerce who print dozens or even hundreds of labels each day, maintaining your printer in good condition is essential. A little care—regular cleaning, proper setup, and correct installation—goes a long way toward preventing errors and saving both time and money.
About Betckey
Betckey Premium Labels is a leading supplier of compatible direct thermal labels, committed to high-quality and eco-friendly products as well as competitive pricing. We offer better products than manufactured original at 70% less price. Now, our Amazon store ranks first in the US, Canada, and Western Europe with thousands of positive ratings. Visit betckey.com and get special discount when purchasing! Sign up now and we'll send you a special discount towards your purchase. By the way, welcome to follow our official @ Tik Tok and @ Youtube accounts to get Betckey’s latest news!
