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Brother Jam Tray 1: Paper jammed in the paper tray

Also shows as: Jam Tray1, Jam Tray 2, Jam Tray 3

✅ Usually fixable yourself

Brother says "Jam Tray 1" (or another tray number) means paper is jammed in the indicated paper tray.

What to try

  1. Pull the paper tray completely out of the machine.
  2. Slowly pull out the jammed paper, pulling downward with both hands.
  3. Fan the paper stack and slide the paper guides to fit the paper size.
  4. Make sure the paper is below the maximum mark.
  5. Push the tray firmly back into the machine.

When it needs a technician

Brother lists no service step for a normal paper jam.

Which models show Jam Tray 1

Brother documents this code for models including DCP-L5500DN, MFC-L5700DW, MFC-L5800DW, MFC-L5850DW, MFC-L6800DW, HL-L2350DW, HL-L2460DW, MFC-L8600CDW.

First steps for any printer error

  1. Write down the exact code before you do anything else — similar-looking codes often mean completely different things.
  2. Power the printer off, unplug it for a couple of minutes, then power it back on. A surprising number of transient errors clear here.
  3. Open the covers and check for paper scraps, packaging material, or anything blocking the carriage.
  4. Check the cartridges or tanks are genuine, correctly seated, and not empty.
  5. Confirm the printer is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension lead.
  6. Check your model’s own manual — codes are model-specific, and the manual is the authority for your machine.

Source: Brother Support FAQ - Paper is Jammed in the Paper Tray (MFC-L5850DW). Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.

Still showing Jam Tray 1?

Tell our printer technician your model and what you've tried. You'll find out whether it's fixable at home or worth repairing at all.

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Eric Paul Amora · Printer & Hardware Repair Technician

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