2012 F-150 tow rating

PK Camper wrote:
Should I trust the published towing ratings of my 2012 ecoboost at 11,500 pounds. I may buy a larger trailer from 4500 gross to 8000 gross weight. Thanks

No you shouldn't trust that 11,500 number. Nearly all 1/2 ton will run out of payload capacity WAY before getting close to the max tow capacity.
Look at your driver's door yellow Tire and Loading sticker. It'll say "Occupants and cargo should not exceed xxxxlbs". The driver is considered as an Occupant. That number is the max payload capacity. It's a good number to use unless you want to weigh the truck on a scale.
That payload number dictates what you can tow.