If its your first contract go Umbrella company no question- make sure that you can fill out yout timesheets, expenses etc online - makes life a lot easier!
Then you need a payroll company - they can be part of the umbrella set up or like mine - seperate - they will advise how much you can claim for travel expenses etc etc etc but to be honest after trying an umbrella company a few years ago and knowing what I know now - if I was to contract again I would go private company. You will get far more money back as a private Ltd company?
You can buy them off the shelf pre registered from Companies House
http://www.companieshouse.gov.uk/infoAn ... List.shtml
Think they used to be £100 which in the scheme of things is peanuts but your stuck with a name that may not suit your business needs??
Anyway have a look at the weblink above - plenty of advice on t'internet.
A lot of good advice and info from David there (manc350z)
I take it things did'nt go to well with your verdict then mate?