An embroidery machine has a motorized arm and hoop carriage that must be locked down before it moves. Secure that carriage, strip the threads, and pad the head, and the machine arrives calibrated.
Pro tip: Separating the embroidery unit from the main machine, if your model allows, makes both pieces lighter and safer to pack.
Watch out: Never move an embroidery machine with the carriage or arm free to swing; it knocks the motorized positioning out of calibration.