First things first, the previous post is perfect example of how you need to do this without listening to many on BrownCafe. A retired guy from the other side of the country is giving you advise unaware of the difference in language between the contract supplements. He thinks he may but that’s not usually the case.
I’m not in that local either so I’ll admit I not up to speed on most of the new language anyways as I’m also retired. What I would do is just leave in the company’s hands to bring you back into system before doing anything but I desire to return back to work at UPS. Once upon your return do whatever they feel is the job you left to the the best of your ability as this most likely be temporary deal anyways. Throwing all the “what if’s “ is pointless waste of energy at this time. Once working again you should be able to get in contact with someone from the local union hall about joining the local as a member again. Leave that between you and your local. Don’t want to come on too strong about joining the local, but there’s a reason we are the best compensated in the country and it’s not all unicorns and butterflies 24/7 at UPS.
Once you get a reliable LOCAL contact is when the work begins, ask for a sit down with your BA at the hall, perhaps after going to a union meeting and introducing yourself to everyone there. Then when you have sit down with BA, ask him about all the options as a teamster member and his thoughts on what ones may be best for you. Thank you for your service and good luck on the next stage of tour life.