When I bought my Ford I ran the numbers between the F250 and F350 models and the XL and XLT trims. I was able to get what wanted for less by choosing the F250 XL with selected options verse the other options available to me. It did require ordering what I wanted, but I was not in rush.
I did the same with my Ram and now have what I want for the best price.
As I posted before, deal with fleet sales when making your purchase instead of the consumer sales. My last two purchases were much more enjoyable and less time intensive by dealing with the guys that know trucks.