Zebra Printer Skipping Labels? How to Calibrate It
The DiscountTillRolls.ie TeamWhen a Zebra printer skips labels, prints across the gap or feeds out blanks, it usually needs calibrating. Calibration teaches the printer where each label starts and stops. It is most often needed after you change to a new label size or brand. If calibrating doesn't fix it, check the media type is set to direct thermal, the label size in the driver matches the roll, and the sensor is clean.
Nine times out of ten this is a two minute fix, so try it before ringing anyone.
In this guide
- Why does a Zebra skip labels?
- How to calibrate a Zebra printer
- Check these driver settings
- Faint or patchy print
- FAQ
Why does a Zebra skip labels?
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Prints one label, then feeds a blank | Needs calibrating, or label length set too long |
| Print runs over the gap | Label size in the driver doesn't match the roll |
| Red or flashing light, nothing prints | Media type set to thermal transfer with no ribbon, or media out |
| Feeds labels non stop | Sensor can't see the gap: calibrate, and check the sensor position |
How to calibrate a Zebra printer
- Load the labels properly. Make sure the roll sits between the guides and the labels pass under the sensor.
- Run the calibration. On many Zebra desktop printers, such as the GK420d, hold the Feed button until the status light flashes twice, then let go. The printer feeds a few labels and measures the gap. Newer ZD models may use a different button sequence, so check your printer's manual if that doesn't work.
- Calibrate from the computer if you prefer. The Zebra driver and Zebra Setup Utilities have a calibrate option too.
- Print a test label. One label should come out, stopping neatly at the tear bar.
Compatible with 800284-605, with clean gaps for easy calibration.
Check these driver settings
- Media type: direct thermal labels need the printer set to direct thermal. If it is set to thermal transfer and there is no ribbon, it will error. Not sure which you have? See direct thermal vs thermal transfer.
- Label size: set the width and height in the driver to match the label exactly, for example 102x152mm.
- Sensing: most labels use gap sensing. Only choose black mark if your labels have black marks on the back, and continuous only for continuous rolls.
- Courier apps: An Post, DPD and others often have their own print settings. Set 4x6 in the app as well as the driver.
Faint or patchy print
- Raise the darkness a little in the driver.
- Slow the print speed for sharper barcodes.
- Clean the print head with an alcohol wipe once it has cooled. A white line down every label usually means dirt on the head.
Other sizes are in our Zebra label sizes guide.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Zebra printer print a blank label after each one?
Usually the printer needs calibrating, or the label length in the driver is longer than the actual label.
How do I calibrate a Zebra GK420d?
Hold the Feed button until the status light flashes twice, then release. The printer measures the labels and stops.
Why is my Zebra flashing red?
Common causes are no labels, the head open, or the printer set to thermal transfer with no ribbon fitted.
Do I need to calibrate every time I change rolls?
Not for the same label size. Do it when you change size or brand of label.
Labels that feed right.
Zebra compatible labels in every common size, dispatched from Dublin 12.
Shop Zebra labels →Free delivery on label orders over €50 ex VAT (€5 below that). Order before 1pm for same-day dispatch.