Most dot matrix printers are designed for use with tractor feed paper. This continuous paper is bordered on the right and left sides by paper strips with a series of holes. These holes are used to guide the paper through the printer by aligning pages with two tractor feed belts found in the unit.

Since dot matrix printers are often used with several different forms, many can be equipped with two tractor feeds at once. Forms can then be easily switched in and out of the printer without needing to reload sheets.

Many dot matrix printers can also handle single cut sheets, including bond paper, letterhead, and envelopes. If you expect to print these materials, make sure the model is equipped with a friction-feed mechanism in addition to the normal tractor feed. Friction feed works like a typewriter, holding sheets tightly against a roller.