I hired movers first time last time. I say I. The missus did. She asked on a forum for a recommendation, and got one for some polish dudes. They rocked up, didn't like her tea, busted a gut and moved everything very quickly.
They didn't box it though - we saved cash by doing that. Apparently they will come round and box everything for ya, but I think it costs much more. But saves you the stress of boxing.
If you box yoursen, A1 boxes are the shit.
http://www.a1box.co.uk/