Another vote for flatbed here. The flexibility of adding tie down points and not having to watch caving in bedsides. Also a well built flat will stiffen your chassis a bit to help with frame flex.
As far as cost effectiveness, who knows.
Re: Wedding band alternatives
I've been rockin a qualo the last few years. It was like $30 off Amazon. Comfortable and durable, it lasted a year in Afghanistan and around the shop since. Before that I hadn't really worn anything since we got married due to work.
It's a skill. Some people are born with it, I was not. I've watched my Dad haggle with people to the point I was willing to pay the difference just to get the hell out of there. But, he does get **** cheaper, so who knows.