Issues with alignment on #10 Envelopes

[Katie2025]

While trying to print images on #10 business envelopes, I am having trouble with the images being printed in the correct spot. Some of the images are printed close to the edge and some are not. I have tried turning the envelopes the opposite way in the tray with no change. I have #10 business envelopes selected and have tried selecting different types of paper in the menu to see if it was a thickness issue. So far, nothing has helped. It prints standard size, full color pages just fine. 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Katie2025,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your printer!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

Try these steps:

Check the Printer Settings: Make sure that you have selected #10 business envelopes as the paper type in the printer’s settings. This is crucial for accurate printing.

Adjust Margins and Layout: In your software application (such as Word or any other document editor), check the layout settings for your envelopes. Ensure that the margins are set correctly so that the image is centered.

Preview Before Printing: Use the Print Preview function in your software application to check the position of the images before they are sent to the printer. This can sometimes reveal issues with layout settings.

Try Different Software: Sometimes the software used for printing might not handle layouts very well. You might try using different software to see if it handles the layout better.

Manually Adjust Printer Alignment: Check if your printer has an option to manually align the paper. Some printers allow you to fine-tune the alignment for different paper types.

Test with Plain Paper: Before using envelopes, try printing the same layout on plain paper to see if the issue persists. This will help determine if the problem is specific to the envelopes or if it's a general alignment issue.

Update Printer Driver/Software: Ensure that your printer's firmware and drivers are up to date. Sometimes software updates can resolve compatibility and functionality issues.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[Katie2025]

Hi there, 

Yes, I have done all of the above. I also want to clarify that if I do a print job with a quantity of ten envelopes, each one comes out with the image in a different position within the same print job. The photo I attached is of a single print job of multiple envelopes. 

Thanks for your help!

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

HI @Katie2025,

Thank you for the clarification!

It’s very helpful to know that within a single print job, the image alignment shifts from one envelope to the next. That rules out software layout issues and points toward a hardware or feeding inconsistency. Let’s dive into some advanced steps to get those #10 envelopes printing perfectly and consistently:

Clean the Paper Feed Rollers

Misfeeds or slips in the envelope tray are a common cause when each print varies in alignment.

Open the printer’s rear or envelope tray (as applicable).

Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol.

Gently wipe the feed rollers, especially the smaller ones used for envelopes.

Allow them to dry fully, then try printing again.

This often helps fix slight skews or slippage that worsen over multiple prints.

Load Fewer Envelopes (5 or Less at a Time)

Even if your printer tray says it supports more, loading too many #10 envelopes at once can lead to slight shifting with each feed.

Try printing 3 to 5 envelopes at a time, keeping them firmly aligned and squared in the tray.

Use the sliding paper guides to hold them snug but not too tight.

Staggered feeding is common when paper guides aren't aligned properly for envelope thickness.

Print One Envelope at a Time (As a Test)

To isolate whether the issue is with feed consistency or software, try this:

Print just one envelope at a time (even if it’s tedious).

See if that single envelope aligns perfectly every time.

If yes ➝ issue is tray feed alignment or roller grip
If still misaligned ➝ issue may lie deeper in firmware or print head alignment

Check & Adjust Print Head Alignment

Some HP printers allow manual print head alignment via the control panel or printer software.

Go to the HP Printer Assistant (on your PC).

Navigate to Printer Maintenance > Align Printhead.

Follow the guided steps.

Misaligned heads can cause the image to “drift”,  especially noticeable on small media like envelopes.

Firmware Update 

Kindly refer to this link to update your printer firmware.

Try Manual Feed Slot

If your printer has a rear/manual feed slot, try using that instead of the regular tray. These are designed for non-standard media like:

Envelopes

Labels

Cardstock

You’ll get straighter feeding with less curl and better control.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[Katie2025]

It seems to print just fine when I load one envelope at a time. I did as you suggested and cleaned the rollers and used the printhead alignment. The issue continues if there is more than two envelopes loaded so it seems to be what you said - tray feed alignment or roller grip