i have a 503a, which i would assume would be similar in weight to a 401, and i have hauled it all over for the past 23 years. i go every year with my girlfriends to the coast on quilting retreats and take it along. it's gone to many classes as well. and yes, it's heavy, but i love that machine and it zig-zags great. also has the decorative cams for some fun stitches. i've done free motion embroidery with it, including one queen size quilt. so . . . assuming they are similar, perhaps that's helpful information for you. i did recently get a new case on wheels, because i gave my case to my daughter, but until now i've just carried that machine in a regular case.