Mail feeding problems can slow down mail processing, cause jams, damage envelopes, or prevent your postage meter or mailing system from running smoothly.
MCC supports Quadient mailing systems. While the exact feeder design may vary by model, most feeding issues are caused by envelope condition, envelope size, stack alignment, sealing problems, paper thickness, or machine setup.
Use the tips below to help prevent feeding problems before they interrupt your mail run.
Use Envelopes That Are in Good Condition
Before loading envelopes into the mailing system, check that they are clean, flat, and in good condition.
Avoid using envelopes that are:
- Bent
- Curled
- Torn
- Damp
- Overstuffed
- Wrinkled
- Stuck together
- Unevenly sealed
- Damaged around the flap
- Different sizes mixed together
Mailing systems are designed to feed consistent, flat mail pieces. If the envelopes are bent, crumpled, or wrinkled, the feeder is probably not going to feed them.
Load Envelopes Neatly
When loading envelopes, make sure the stack is straight and aligned.
Before placing envelopes in the feeder:
- Tap the envelope stack on a flat surface to align the edges.
- Make sure all envelopes face the same direction.
- Confirm the flaps are positioned correctly for your mailing system.
- Do not mix different sizes or thicknesses in the same stack.
- Load the stack according to the guide markings on the feeder.
A messy stack can cause skewing, double-feeding, jams, or missed postage impressions.
Do Not Overfill the Feeder
Overloading the feeder can prevent envelopes from separating and feeding correctly.
Load a manageable stack and refill as needed. If the feeder is too full, envelopes may press too tightly together and cause misfeeds or double-feeds.
If your machine has a maximum fill line or feed guide, keep the stack below that point.
Adjust the Side Guides
The side guides help keep envelopes straight as they feed through the machine.
Adjust the guides so they lightly touch the envelope stack. They should not squeeze the envelopes or leave too much space.
If the guides are too tight, envelopes may not move freely. If they are too loose, envelopes may feed crooked or jam.
Separate Stuck Envelopes
Humidity, pressure, or envelope adhesive can cause envelopes to stick together.
Before loading mail:
- Fan the envelope stack lightly
- Separate any envelopes that feel stuck
- Remove damaged envelopes
- Check that flaps are not catching on each other
This is especially important with envelopes that have been stored for a long time or kept in a humid area.
Watch for Overstuffed Envelopes
Overstuffed envelopes are a common cause of feeding problems.
If an envelope is too thick, uneven, or lumpy, it may not feed properly through the machine. Run unusually thick or uneven mail pieces separately, or check whether they should be processed manually.
Be careful with envelopes containing:
- Multiple folded pages
- Booklets
- Cards
- Inserts
- Return envelopes
- Uneven stacks of paper
- Small objects or rigid items
Check the Envelope Size
Make sure the envelope size is supported by your mailing system.
Feeding problems can happen if the mail piece is too small, too large, too thick, too thin, or shaped differently from standard envelopes.
If you are running a different size than usual, process a small test batch first.
Keep the Feeder Area Clean
Dust, paper fibers, envelope glue, and debris can build up in the feeder area over time.
Check the feeder regularly and remove visible debris. Use only approved cleaning methods for your machine. Do not use sharp tools, liquids, or compressed air unless instructed by MCC or the manufacturer.
If rollers appear dirty or worn, contact MCC for service.
Check the Sealing Area
If your mailing system seals envelopes, feeding problems may be related to the sealing section.
Check that:
- Envelopes are loaded with flaps positioned correctly
- Sealing fluid is filled, if your system uses it
- Flaps are not already sealed or stuck
- Envelope flaps are not curled or damaged
- The sealing area is not clogged or dirty
If envelopes are not sealing properly, see the related article on envelope sealing issues.
Run a Small Test Batch
Before processing a large mail run, run a small test batch.
This helps confirm:
- Envelopes feed straight
- Postage prints in the correct location
- Sealing works correctly
- The machine is not double-feeding
- No jams or skewing occur
Testing a few pieces first is much better than discovering a problem 300 envelopes into a mail run.
Stop If the Same Problem Keeps Happening
If the mailing system jams, double-feeds, or skews repeatedly, stop the mail run and check the setup.
Continuing to run mail through a machine that is already having feeding problems can make the issue worse or damage mail pieces.
When to Contact MCC
Contact MCC if:
- Envelopes repeatedly jam
- Mail feeds crooked
- The system double-feeds envelopes
- The feeder does not pull envelopes in
- Envelopes are being damaged
- Sealing problems continue after checking fluid and flaps
- The machine shows an error message
- Feed rollers appear worn or dirty
- Problems continue with clean, flat, standard envelopes
- You are not sure whether the mail piece is compatible with your system
What to Include in Your Service Request
When requesting service for mail feeding problems, include:
- Business name
- Contact name
- Phone number
- Mailing system model
- Serial number
- Equipment location
- Description of the feeding problem
- Envelope size and type
- Whether the issue happens every time or only sometimes
- Whether the issue happens with all envelopes or only one batch
- Any error message shown on the machine
- Photos of the envelope stack or error screen, if helpful
The easiest way to request service is by using the MCC Express Passport, if one is available for your mailing system. You can also contact MCC by phone or email.