labelo.THE LABELO GUIDE
How to print labels accurately
For accurate labels, match the PDF paper size to the physical stock and print at Actual size / 100%. Correct scaling before adjusting offsets, then verify the first and last rows on plain paper.
1. Choose the exact paper and label dimensions
Open Label layout to choose a generic preset, or Customize layout to enter measurements. Label width and height alone do not specify a sheet: margins, gaps, rows and columns also determine placement.
| Format | Width × height | Important distinction |
|---|---|---|
| A4 sheet | 210 × 297 mm | Common metric sheet format, including India. |
| US Letter sheet | 215.9 × 279.4 mm | 8.5 × 11 inches; it is not A4. |
| Metric shipping label | 100 × 150 mm | Smaller than a true 4 × 6 inch label. |
| 4 × 6 inch label | 101.6 × 152.4 mm | Use exact dimensions in PDF and driver. |
Nominal dimensions may be rounded. Avery's 65-label product page lists 38.1 × 21.2 mm, while its template page lists 38.1 × 21.17 mm. Use the exact vendor layout or measured stock; our generic grid is not a certified Avery template.
2. Set quantity and inspect the preview
Select the label count or CSV quantities. For partially used sheets, choose the starting cell. Sheet preview supports zoom and shows resolved batch values and serial numbers. Hidden objects do not print.
3. Configure roll spacing when needed
A roll is a media format, not a printing method. Direct thermal, ribbon/thermal transfer and inkjet printers have different sensing, cutting and driver requirements.
- Across gap: space between labels beside each other. Liner width includes labels, gaps and side margins.
- Feed gap: space between successive rows. Feed pitch equals label height plus that gap.
- Driver-managed rows: one row per PDF page. The driver handles the physical sensed gap; do not add it to PDF page height.
- PDF strips: multiple rows per page. The document already includes feed gaps and trailing pitch; do not add the same gap twice in the driver.
4. Download and measure an alignment test
The alignment test includes label outlines, corner targets, cell numbers, safe guides and measured rulers. Print on plain paper with Actual size / 100%, matching paper, one page per sheet, one printer copy and single-sided printing. Disable Fit to page, headers and footers.
Measure the 50 mm ruler first. If it measures 49 mm, fix scaling; offsets cannot fix it. A constant shift can be corrected with X/Y offsets. Increasing drift needs corrected dimensions or pitch. Skew or inconsistent registration calls for media-guide, sensor or printer maintenance.
5. Print and scan a small batch
Save the calibrated stock-specific printer profile. Review preflight errors, then use Print now or Download PDF. Scan every barcode type used and inspect first and last labels before committing a large batch.
Preflight protects quiet zones and blocks invalid, too-dense or clipped symbols. Rounded and circular stock clip preview and PDF to the same outline. Browser print APIs cannot confirm paper output or force driver settings.
Labelo features and common questions · Back up editable labels and workspaces