When an envelope prints with the address too high, too low, or shifted left or right, the problem is usually not the printer itself. Misaligned envelope text happens because envelope sizes, margins, feed direction, and scaling settings must match perfectly. Even a small mismatch can move the text several millimeters off target.
This guide explains why envelope text becomes misaligned, how to fix it step by step, and how to prevent it from happening again.
The Most Common Causes of Misaligned Envelope Text
Envelope text misalignment is typically caused by:
Wrong envelope size selected in the software
A different size selected in the printer driver
Automatic scaling such as “Fit to Page”
Incorrect feed orientation
Margins that are too small
Using the wrong paper tray
Each of these issues shifts where the printer places the text.
Quick Fix Checklist
Try these simple fixes first:
Select the exact envelope size in your app
Match the same size in the printer driver
Set scaling to 100% / Actual Size
Use the manual feed tray
Print one envelope at a time
Follow the tray’s orientation diagram
Most alignment problems are solved with these steps.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Open your document’s print settings.
Confirm the envelope size matches the physical envelope.
Open the printer’s preferences and match the same size.
Disable any scaling or auto-fit options.
Load one envelope in the manual feed tray.
Adjust the paper guides snugly.
Print a test envelope.
If the text is still off, adjust the margins slightly and test again.
Settings That Affect Text Position
These settings directly control where text prints on an envelope:
Paper Size: Must match the envelope
Orientation: Portrait or Landscape
Margins: Control how far text sits from the edges
Scaling: Must stay at 100%
Tray: Manual feed gives better control
Even a 1–2 mm margin difference can shift the address.
How Much Should You Adjust the Text?
Use small changes when correcting alignment:
Move text by 1–2 mm at a time
Adjust margins by 0.05–0.1 inches
Reprint a test envelope after each change
Large changes often overcorrect the problem.
Check the Envelope Feed Orientation
If the envelope is loaded incorrectly:
Text may print upside down
The address may appear too high or low
The layout can shift horizontally
Always follow the printer tray’s diagram and keep the flap out of the print path.
Hardware and Envelope Quality Checks
Physical factors also affect alignment:
Curled envelopes feed unevenly
Thick seams can shift the paper path
Window film may drag on rollers
Worn rollers cause skewed feeding
Use flat, smooth envelopes for best results.
When to Use Labels Instead
If alignment problems continue:
Print the address on adhesive labels
Apply labels to envelopes manually
Use flat, standard envelopes
Labels eliminate feed-related alignment issues.
Prevent Misalignment in the Future
Follow these best practices:
Save envelope templates
Always run a test print
Keep scaling at 100%
Use manual feed for envelopes
Store envelopes flat and dry
Consistency prevents most alignment problems.
Final Tips
Envelope text becomes misaligned when the software settings, printer driver, and envelope feed direction do not match. By confirming the size in both places, disabling scaling, and adjusting margins in small steps, you can fix misalignment quickly and avoid wasting envelopes.
This guide covers the main reasons envelope text prints in the wrong position and how to correct it.