I looked long and hard at the F250 vs 350 prior to my purchase. I bought a 2012 F250 CC 4x4 SB with the 6.7, 3.55ELD, camper package. If I were to get an F350 it would be a long bed. The reason I chose to not go with the long bed is the places that I hunt and fish.... Turning around a long be CC truck on some of these backcountry dirt roads wouild be really tough. The F250 short bed meets my needs, tows my 30', 10,000lb trailer just fine, hauls my dogs and gear, so it is a good match for me. I have hauled over 2,700lbs of cement mix in my truck with no problems. I did choose to add air bags to the rear for when I have the bed loaded and my trailer with 1,300 toung weight on the rear. It allows me to get it just where I want it weight and height wise. I am very happy with this truck! I enjoyed my Excursion for 11 years and 187,000 miles, but don't miss it after getting behind the wheel of this beast.
Best of luck in your decision.
Pat