Actually, a full size van is probably the most practical vehicle for carrying stuff. Since we've been in business (early 70's) weve never been without a good 3/4 ton van. When you are carrying anything you dont want rain, snow, dirt etc to get onto, an open trailer (as well as an open bed pickup) fails. Plus the floor is pretty low to the ground. Much lower than a full size pickup.
We have several trailers (open and enclosed) two pickups and a van available at work. The van always gets used the most, unless it is too much to put in then the enclosed cargo trailer gets used.
I understand not everyone wants to have a larger vehicle. But if you want to talk practicality... van is #1. I have a 2001 GMC Savana 2500 with their large V6 that gets decent mileage for the size, and can be loaded pretty heavily. Not as much as the Sierra 2500, but its way easier to load for cabinets and the like.
As for damaging a new pickup - with most I see now having heavy sprayed in liners, not going to be an issue. These trucks are made to work, not look pretty.