You can tow from the "bumper", as you say, when properly equipped.
That said, as one that has towed several days per week for near 30 years, I recommend the 5th wheel.
I tow pumps that weigh between 5k and 12k pounds, some of our equipment trailers and portable labs weigh +17k pounds.
For the ultimate in safety, comfort, ease of operation and wear and tear on the tow vehicle go 5th wheel/ gooseneck.
