Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Number of Freight Forwarding Companies
Number of Freight Forwarding Companies
Number of Freight Forwarding Companies
Number of Defendants
Number of Defendants
Number of Defendants
Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number
Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number
Number of Outstanding Cases
Number of Outstanding Cases
Number of Outstanding Cases
Number of Franchisees
Number of Franchisees
Number of Franchisees
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Statement, Business Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segment [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
U.S. Domestic Package
U.S. Domestic Package [Member]
U.S. Domestic Package [Member]
International Package
International Package [Member]
International Package [Member]
Supply Chain & Freight
Supply Chain & Freight [Member]
Supply Chain & Freight
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Goodwill
Acquired
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Currency / Other
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments
Ending balance
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
Cost
Marketable Securities, Amortized Cost [Abstract]
Marketable Securities, Amortized Cost [Abstract]
Due in one year or less
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis
Due after one year through three years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After One Through Three Years, Amortized Cost Basis
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After One Through Three Years, Amortized Cost Basis
Due after three years through five years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Three Through Five Years, Amortized Cost Basis
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Three Through Five Years, Amortized Cost Basis
Due after five years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Five Years, Amortized Cost Basis
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Five Years, Amortized Cost Basis
Marketable Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost, Total
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Equity securities
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Total Amortized Cost
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Estimated Fair Value
Estimated Fair Value [Abstract]
Marketable Securities, Fair Value [Abstract]
Due in one year or less
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value
Due after one year through three years
Available-For-Sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After One Year Through Three Years, Fair Value
Available-For-Sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After One Year Through Three Years, Fair Value
Due after three years through five years
Available-For-Sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Three Years Through Five Years, Fair Value
Available-For-Sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Three Years Through Five Years, Fair Value
Due after five years
Available-For-Sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Five Years, Fair Value
Available-For-Sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Five Years, Fair Value
Marketable Securities, Debt Maturities, Fair Value, Total
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Fair Value
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Fair Value
Equity securities
Availalbe-for-Sale Equity Securities, Fair Value
Availalbe-for-Sale Equity Securities, Fair Value
Total Estimated Fair Value
Available-for-sale Securities
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative, Name [Domain]
Derivative, Name [Domain]
Fixed to Floating Interest Rate Swaps
Fixed to Floating Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative Financial Instruments, Receive Variable Pay Fixed Member
Floating to Fixed Interest Rate Swaps
Floating to Fixed Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative Financial Instruments, Receive Fixed Pay Variable Member
Basis Interest Rate Swaps
Basis Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Basis Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount
Derivative, Notional Amount
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Marketable securities
Marketable securities [Member]
Marketable securities [Member]
Other Long-term Investments
Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Fair Value, Option, Qualitative Disclosures Related to Election, by Eligible Item or Group [Axis]
Eligible Item or Group for Fair Value Option [Axis]
Fair Value, Option, Eligible Item or Group [Domain]
Fair Value, Option, Eligible Item or Group [Domain]
U.S. government and agency debt securities
US Treasury and Government [Member]
Mortgage and asset-backed debt securities
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Corporate debt securities
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Other debt and equity securities
Other debt and equity securities [Member]
Other Debt and Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Stockholders Equity Note [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
accelerated share repurchase program [Domain]
accelerated share repurchase program [Domain]
accelerated share repurchase program [Domain]
Accelerated Share Repurchase Program September 2011 [Member]
Accelerated Share Repurchase Program September 2011 [Member]
Accelerated Share Repurchase Program September 2011 [Member]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Corporate Joint Venture [Member]
Corporate Joint Venture [Member]
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Equity [Axis]
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Axis]
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Type [Domain]
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Type [Domain]
Settled Options
Options Held [Member]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class A common stock
Common Class A [Member]
Class B common stock
Common Class B [Member]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Purchase of Remaining Noncontrolling Interest
Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Purchase of Remaining Noncontrolling Interest
Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Purchase of Remaining Noncontrolling Interest
Classes of Common Stock, Number
Classes of Common Stock, Number
Classes of Common Stock, Number
Votes per common share
Votes per common share
Votes per common share
Common stock, par value
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred stock, shares authorized
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred stock, par value
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Preferred stock, issued
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued
Total of Class A and Class B common stock, repurchased, value
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value
Common stock authorized for purchase, amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount
Option premiums received (paid)
Option Premiums Received (Paid)
Option Premiums Received (Paid)
Options Premiums Received
Options Premiums Received
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Stock Repurchased, Option Premiums Received
Common stock purchases
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent
Amounts Reclassified from AOCI [Abstract]
Amounts Reclassified from AOCI [Abstract]
AmountsReclassifiedFromAOCI [Table]
AmountsReclassifiedFromAOCI [Table]
AmountsReclassifiedFromAOCI [Table]
ForeignCurrencyAccumulatedTranslationAdjustment [Axis]
ForeignCurrencyAccumulatedTranslationAdjustment [Axis]
ForeignCurrencyAccumulatedTranslationAdjustment [Axis]
ForeignCurrencyAccumulatedTranslationAdjustment [Domain]
ForeignCurrencyAccumulatedTranslationAdjustment [Domain]
[Domain] for ForeignCurrencyAccumulatedTranslationAdjustment [Axis]
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain]
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Statement, Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax:
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Commodity Contract [Member]
Commodity Contract [Member]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Other Expense [Member]
Other Expense [Member]
Investment Income [Member]
Investment Income [Member]
LaborAndRelatedExpense [Member]
Labor and Related Expense [Member]
Labor and Related Expense [Member]
Income Tax Expense Benefit [Member]
Income Tax Expense Benefit [Member]
Income Tax Expense Benefit Member
Fuel Expense [Member]
Fuel Expense [Member]
Fuel Expense [Member]
Net Income [Member] [Member]
Net Income [Member] [Member]
Net Income [Member] [Member]
Interest Expense [Member]
Interest Expense [Member]
Revenue [Member]
Revenue [Member]
Revenue [Member]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
AmountsReclassifiedFromAOCI [Line Items]
AmountsReclassifiedFromAOCI [Line Items]
[Line Items] for AmountsReclassifiedFromAOCI [Table]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, before Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net (Gain) Loss, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Reclassification Adjustment Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Tax
TotalOtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassification, Net of Tax
TotalOtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassification, Net of Tax
TotalOtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassification, Net of Tax
CASH AND INVESTMENTS
CASH AND INVESTMENTS [Text Block]
Disclosure of cash, cash equivalents and investments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Axis]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain]
Asset Class [Domain]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value
Transfers into (out of) Level 3
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses):
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Abstract]
Included in earnings (in investment income)
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (pre-tax)
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Purchases
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases
Sales
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales
Ending Balance
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Interest Rate by Type [Axis]
Interest Rate by Type [Axis]
Interest Rate by Type [Axis]
Interest Rate, Type [Domain]
Interest Rate, Type [Domain]
Interest Rate, Type [Domain]
LIBOR rate
LIBOR [Member]
LIBOR [Member]
Citibank base rate
Citibank base rate [Member]
Citibank base rate [Member]
Federal Funds Rate [Member]
Federal Funds Rate [Member]
Federal Funds Rate [Member]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Senior notes
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
A1125SeniorNotes [Member]
A1125SeniorNotes [Member]
1.125% senior notes [Member]
2.45% senior notes [Member]
2.45% senior notes [Member]
2.45% senior notes [Member] [Member]
3.625% senior notes [Member]
3.625% senior notes [Member]
3.625% senior notes [Member]
3.875% senior notes [Member]
3.875% senior notes [Member]
3.875% Senior Notes [Member]
U.S. Commercial Paper Program
U.S. Commercial Paper Program [Member]
U.S. Commercial Paper Program [Member]
Foreign Commercial Paper Program
Foreign Commercial Paper Program [Member]
Foreign Commercial Paper Program [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility Expiring In 2015 [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility Expiring In 2015 [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility Expiring In 2015 [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility Expiring In 2017
Revolving Credit Facility Expiring In 2019 [Member] [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility Expiring In 2019 [Member] [Member]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face value of debt instrument
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt instrument, stated interest rate
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Commercial paper program, authorized to borrow
Commercial paper program, authorized to borrow
Debt Instrument, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amount
Total debt
Long-term Debt
Debt, weighted average interest rate
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Number of credit agreements
Number of credit agreements
Number Of Credit Facilities
Revolving credit facilities
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Maturity
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date
Applicable margin rates
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Applicable margin for base rate below LIBOR
Applicable margin for base rate below LIBOR
Applicable Margin Rate On Base Rate Below LIBOR
Covenants limit, amount of secured indebtedness and debt in sale-leaseback transactions, percentage of net tangible assets
Covenants limit the amount of secured indebtedness that we may incur, and limit the amount of attributable debt in sale-leaseback transactions, to percentage of net tangible assets
Debt Covenant Tangible Asset Percentage
Covenants that limit the amount of secured indebtedness and amount of attributable debt in sale-leaseback transactions, net tangible assets amount
Covenants limit the amount of secured indebtedness that we may incur, and limit the amount of attributable debt in sale-leaseback transactions, net tangible assets amount
Tangible asset calculation used in debt covenant compliance test.
Long-term debt fair value
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure
Business Combinations [Abstract]
BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS
TERMINATION OF TNT TRANSACTION [Text Block]
TERMINATION OF TNT TRANSACTION [Text Block]
Loss Contingency, Information about Litigation Matters [Abstract]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency Accrual, Carrying Value, Provision
Loss Contingency Accrual, Provision
Stockholders Equity Note [Table]
Statement [Table]
Additional Paid-in Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings [Member]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Stockholders Equity Note [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common stock purchases
Stock award plans
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Common stock issuances
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues
Conversions of Class A to Class B common stock
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities
Balance at end of period
Balance at beginning of period
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Stock award plans
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Common stock issuances
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues
Net income
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Dividends ($0.57 and $0.52 per share)
Dividends, Common Stock
Common stock purchases
Balance at end of period
Common stock, cash paid for dividends, per share
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Capitalized software
Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member]
Licenses
Licensing Agreements [Member]
Franchise rights
Franchise Rights [Member]
Customer lists
Customer Lists [Member]
Trademarks, patents, and other
Trademarks, patents, and other [Member] [Member]
Trademarks, patents, and other [Member] [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount
Intangible Assets, Gross
Intangible Assets, Gross
Accumulated Amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Value
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction
Pension and postretirement benefit expense
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense
Pension and postretirement benefit contributions
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions
Increase (Decrease) in Pension and Postretirement Obligations
Increase (Decrease) in Pension and Postretirement Obligations
Self-insurance reserves
Increase (Decrease) in Self Insurance Reserve
Deferred taxes, credits and other
Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits
Stock compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Other (gains) losses
Other Noncash Income (Expense)
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisitions
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Accounts receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Other current assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Accrued wages and withholdings
Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities
Other current liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities
Other operating activities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net
Net cash from operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Capital expenditures
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Proceeds from disposals of property, plant, and equipment
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment
Purchases of marketable securities
Payments to Acquire Investments
Sales and maturities of marketable securities
Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments
Net decrease in finance receivables
Payments for (Proceeds from) Loans Receivable
Cash paid for business acquisitions
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Other investing activities
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Net change in short-term debt
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt
Repayments of long-term borrowings
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Purchases of common stock
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Issuances of common stock
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock
Dividends
Payments of Dividends
Other financing activities
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Effect Of Exchange Rate Changes On Cash And Cash Equivalents
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents
Net Increase In Cash And Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash And Cash Equivalents:
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) [Abstract]
Beginning of period
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
End of period
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Change in unrecognized pension and postretirement benefit costs, net of tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
Collateral received under contractual provisions
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash
Maximum term over hedging exposures to the variability of cash flow
Maximum term over hedging exposures to the variability of cash flow
Maximum term over hedging exposures to the variability of cash flow
Pre-tax losses related to cash flow hedges that are currently deferred in AOCI and are expected to be reclassified to income within twelve months
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash
SEGMENT INFORMATION
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Cost
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss(1)
Total Estimated Fair Value
Marketable Securities, Current
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Other Income Tax Data by Item [Axis]
Other Income Tax Data by Item [Axis]
Other Income Tax Data by Item [Axis]
Other Income Tax Data [Domain]
Other Income Tax Data [Domain]
Other Income Tax Data [Domain]
Other Income Tax Data [Line Items]
Other Income Tax Data [Line Items]
Other Income Tax Data [Line Items]
Effective tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority
Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority
Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table]
Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table]
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent [Axis]
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent [Axis]
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent [Axis]
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent [Domain]
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent [Domain]
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent [Domain]
Self-insurance requirements [Member]
Self-insurance requirements [Member]
Self Insurance Program [Member]
Variable life insurance policy
Variable Life Insurance Policy [Member]
UPS Variable Life Insurance Policy [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent
Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Equity Award [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Nonqualified Stock Options [Member]
Nonqualified Stock Options [Member]
Nonqualified Stock Options [Member]
Long-Term Incentive Performance Award [Member]
Long-Term Incentive Performance Award [Member]
Long-Term Incentive Performance Award [Member]
Management Incentive Award [Member]
Management Incentive Award [Member]
Management Incentive Award [Member]
Percentage of the award vesting at each anniversary date of the grant
Percentage of the award vesting at each anniversary date of the grant
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Percentage Of Shares Vested
Closing New York Stock Exchange price
Closing New York Stock Exchange price
Closing stock price
Percentage of target restricted performance units award that will be divided into three substantially equal tranches in the three-year award cycle from 2011 to 2013
Percentage of target restricted performance units award that will be divided into three substantially equal tranches in the three-year award cycle from 2011 to 2013
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Restricted Stock Awards, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Number of tranches included in award cycle
Number of tranches included in award cycle
Number of tranches included in award cycle
Number of award tranches for each calendar year
Number of award tranches for each calendar year
Number of award tranches for each calendar year
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Cycle Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Cycle Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Cycle Period
Remaining target award based upon our achievement of adjusted earnings per share for the year ending 2013 compared to a target established at the beginning of the award cycle
Remaining target award based upon our achievement of adjusted earnings per share for the year ending 2013 compared to a target established at the beginning of the award cycle
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Restricted Stock Awards, Remaining Target Award
Percentage of achievement used to determine RPUs earned of the target RPUs for each tranche
Percentage of achievement used to determine RPUs earned of the target RPUs for each tranche
Percentage Of Target Restricted Performance Units Earned
Stock options granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Grant price of stock options and RPU
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Compensation expense for share-based awards recognized in net income, pre-tax
Award vesting period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Period from grant date to expiration
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Term to Maturity
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Term to Maturity
Schedule of Stockholders Equity
Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Earnings
Schedule of Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Earnings [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Earnings [Table]
Schedule of Deferred Compensation and Treasury Stock Activity
Schedule of Deferred Compensation and Treasury Stock Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Compensation and Treasury Stock Activity [Table Text Block]
Activity Related to Noncontrolling Interests
Activity Related to Noncontrolling Interests [Table Text Block]
Noncontrolling Interests Disclosure Table
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
INCOME TAXES
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Shares excluded from diluted earnings per share that may be issued upon the exercise of employee stock options because such effect would be antidilutive
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Fair Value Hedging
Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Interest Rate Contracts
Fixed-Rate Debt and Capital Leases
Fixed-Rate Debt and Capital Leases [Member]
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedging Instruments
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge
Deconsolidation, Revaluation of Retained Investment, Gain (Loss), Amount
Deconsolidation, Revaluation of Retained Investment, Gain (Loss), Amount
DeconsolidationRevaluationOfRetainedInvestmentGainOrLossAmountAfterTax
DeconsolidationRevaluationOfRetainedInvestmentGainOrLossAmountAfterTax
DeconsolidationRevaluationOfRetainedInvestmentGainOrLossAmountAfterTax
OtherTransactionRelatedExpenses
OtherTransactionRelatedExpenses
OtherTransactionRelatedExpenses
TotalTerminationFee(pretax)
Total Termination Fee (pretax)
Total Termination Fee (pretax)
TotalTerminationFee(aftertax)
Total Termination Fee (aftertax)
Total Termination Fee (aftertax)
Termination of Business Acquisition, Termination Fee
Termination of Business Acquisition, Termination Fee
Termination of Business Acquisition, Termination Fee
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Schedule of Goodwill
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Schedule of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of tax:
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Aggregate adjustment for the period (net of tax effect of $0 and $(9))
Current period changes in fair value (net of tax effect of $0, and $2)
Current period changes in fair value (net of tax effect of $(25) and $(32))
Reclassification to earnings (net of tax effect of $16 and $28)
Reclassification to earnings (net of tax effect of $(1) and $(4))
Reclassification to earnings (net of tax effect of $0 and $(6))
Balance at end of period
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Valuation, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Valuation, Net of Tax
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Noncontrolling Interest [Table]
Noncontrolling Interest [Table]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Dividends attributable to noncontrolling interests
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Balance at end of period
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Available-for-sale Securities
Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Document - Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document - Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Statement [Line Items]
Document Type
Document Type
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Principles of Consolidation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounting Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Change in Accounting Methodology
Comparability of Prior Year Financial Data, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AND CONTINGENCIES
Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax
Aggregate adjustment for the period, tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax
Current period changes in fair value, tax effect
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax
Reclassification to earnings, tax effect
Current period changes in fair value, tax effect
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax
Reclassification to earnings, tax effect
Reclassification to earnings, tax effect
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net (Gain) Loss, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Valuation, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Valuation, Tax
Restricted performance units
Restricted Performance Units [Member]
Restricted Performance Units [Member]
Stock option plans
Stock Option Plans [Member]
Stock Option Plans [Member]
Numerator:
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Net income attributable to common shareowners
Denominator:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract]
Weighted average shares
Weighted Average Number of Shares Issued, Basic
Deferred compensation obligations
Deferred compensation obligations
Number of shares required to settle deferred compensation obligations included in share calculation for basic earnings per share.
Vested portion of restricted shares
Weighted Average Number of Shares, Restricted Stock
Denominator for basic earnings per share
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Effect of dilutive securities:
Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract]
Incremental common shares attributable to share-based payment arrangements
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Denominator for diluted earnings per share
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Basic earnings per share
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted earnings per share
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Commercial Paper
Commercial Paper [Member]
Debentures [Member]
Debentures [Member]
Debentures [Member]
Facility notes and bonds
Facility notes and bonds [Member]
Facility Notes and Bonds [Member]
Pound Sterling notes
Pound Sterling notes [Member]
Pound Sterling Notes [Member]
Capital Lease Obligations
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Other debt
Other debt [Member]
Debt, Other
3.875% stated rate
5.50% stated rate
5.50% senior notes [Member]
5.50% Senior Notes [Member]
5.125% stated rate
5.125% senior notes [Member]
5.125% Senior Notes [Member]
Debentures 8 Point 375 Percent Due 2030 [Member]
Debentures 8 Point 375 Percent Due 2030 [Member]
Debentures 8 Point 375 Percent Due 2030 [Member]
3.125% stated rate
3.125% senior notes [Member]
Senior Notes 3.125 Percent [Member]
8.375% debentures due 2030 [Member]
8.375% debentures due 2030 [Member]
8.375% debentures due 2030 [Member]
6.20% stated rate
6.20% senior notes [Member]
6.20% Senior Notes [Member]
4.875% stated rate
4.875% senior notes [Member]
4.875% senior notes [Member]
Pound Sterling Notes 5 Point 5 Percent [Member]
Pound Sterling Notes 5 Point 5 Percent [Member]
Pound Sterling Notes 5 Point 5 Percent [Member]
Pound Sterling Notes 5 Point 13 Percent [Member]
Pound Sterling Notes 5 Point 13 Percent [Member]
Pound Sterling Notes 5 Point 13 Percent [Member]
Debentures 8 Point 375 Percent Due 2020 [Member]
Debentures 8 Point 375 Percent Due 2020 [Member]
Debentures 8 Point 375 Percent Due 2020 [Member]
Floating rate senior notes
Floating rate senior notes [Member]
Floating Rate Senior Notes [Member]
8.375% debentures due 2020 [Member]
8.375% debentures due 2020 [Member]
8.375% debentures due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Maturity - Minimum Date
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start
Maturity - Maximum Date
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End
Less current maturities
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Long-Term Debt
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common Class A [Member]
Common Class B [Member]
Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Current Assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Marketable securities
Accounts receivable, net
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Deferred income tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total Current Assets
Assets, Current
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill
Intangible Assets, Net
Non-Current Investments and Restricted Cash
Derivative Assets, Noncurrent
Derivative Asset, Noncurrent
Other Non-Current Assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total Assets
Assets
Liabilities and Shareowners' Equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current Liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Current maturities of long-term debt and commercial paper
Debt, Current
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Accrued wages and withholdings
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Self-insurance reserves
Self Insurance Reserve, Current
Other current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Total Current Liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Obligations
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Self-Insurance Reserves
Self Insurance Reserve, Noncurrent
Other Non-Current Liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Shareowners' Equity:
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Common stock
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Deferred compensation obligations
Compensation and Benefits Trust
Less: Treasury stock (2 shares in 2013 and 2012)
Treasury Stock, Value
Total Equity for Controlling Interests
Total Equity for Non-Controlling Interests
Total Shareowners' Equity
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total Liabilities and Shareowners' Equity
Liabilities and Equity
Fair Value of Employee Stock Options Granted and Determined by Black-Scholes Valuation Model Assumptions
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Text Block]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Minimum
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Segments, Number
Operating Segments, Number
Operating Segments, Number
Number of countries and territories in which service is rendered
Number of Countries in which Entity Operates
Commodity Contracts
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Treasury Stock [Member]
Treasury Stock [Member]
Deferred Compensation Obligations
Deferred Compensation, Share-based Payments [Member]
Balance at beginning of period
Treasury Stock, Shares
Reinvested dividends
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Dividend Reinvestment Plan
Benefit payments
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Issued
Balance at end of period
Reinvested dividends
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Dividend Reinvestment Plan
Benefit payments
Deferred Compensation Payment
Deferred Compensation Payment
Revenue
Revenues
Operating Income (Loss)
Operating Income (Loss)
Common stock, shares issued
Treasury stock, shares
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Designated as Hedging Instrument
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other current assets
Other Current Assets [Member]
Other noncurrent assets
Other Noncurrent Assets [Member]
Other current liabilities
Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Other non-current liabilities
Other Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives
Derivative Asset [Abstract]
Asset Derivatives
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Net
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative Liability [Abstract]
Liability Derivatives
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis]
U.S. Pension Benefits
United States Pension Plan of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member]
U.S. Postretirement Medical Benefits
United States Postretirement Benefit Plan of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member]
International Pension Benefits
Foreign Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net Periodic Cost:
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Amortization of:
Amortization Of [Abstract]
Amortization [Abstract]
Transition obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Transition Obligations (Assets)
Other net (gain) loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)
Prior service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Actuarial (gain) loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments
Net periodic benefit cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Income Statement [Abstract]
Operating Expenses:
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Compensation and benefits
Labor and Related Expense
Repairs and maintenance
Cost of Services, Maintenance Costs
Purchased transportation
Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs
Fuel
Fuel Costs
Other occupancy
Cost of Other Property Operating Expense
Other expenses
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Total Operating Expenses
Costs and Expenses
Operating Profit
Other Income and (Expense):
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Investment income
Investment Income, Nonoperating
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Total Other Income and (Expense)
Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income Before Income Taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest
Income Tax Expense
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net Income
Basic Earnings Per Share
Diluted Earnings Per Share
DEBT AND FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Vehicles [Member]
Vehicles [Member]
Aircraft (including aircraft under capital leases) [Member]
Air Transportation Equipment [Member]
Land [Member]
Land [Member]
Buildings [Member]
Building [Member]
Building and leasehold improvements [Member]
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Plant Equipment [Member]
Plant Equipment [Member]
Plant Equipment [Member]
Technology equipment [Member]
Technology Equipment [Member]
Equipment under operating leases [Member]
Equipment under operating leases [Member]
Equipment under operating leases [Member]
Construction-in-progress [Member]
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment, net
Expected life (in years)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Risk-free interest rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Expected volatility
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate
Expected dividend yield
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
plan amendments components [Axis]
plan amendments components [Axis]
plan amendments components [Axis]
plan amendments components [Domain]
plan amendments components [Domain]
[Domain] for plan amendments components [Axis]
remeasurement of postretirement obligation [Member]
remeasurement of postretirement obligation [Member]
subsequent remeasurement of postretirement obligation [Member]
defined benefit plan settlement losses [Member]
defined benefit plan settlement losses [Member]
subsequent events defined benefit plan settlement losses [Member]
partial plan curtailment [Member]
partial plan curtailment [Member]
partial plan curtailment [Member]
Collective Bargaining Arrangement [Axis]
Collective Bargaining Arrangement [Axis]
Collective Bargaining Arrangement [Domain]
Collective Bargaining Arrangement [Domain]
Non-National Master Agreement (Non-NMA) [Member]
Non-National Master Agreement (Non-NMA) [Member]
Non-National Master Agreement (Non-NMA) [Member]
National Master Agreement (NMA) [Member]
National Master Agreement (NMA) [Member]
National Master Agreement (NMA) [Member]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis]
Multiemployer Plans Type [Domain]
Multiemployer Plans Type [Domain]
Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Postretirement Medical Benefit Plan
International Pension Benefits
other employees under collective bargaining agreements affected by changes in healthcare benefits
other employees under collective bargaining agreements affected by changes in healthcare benefits
other employees under collective bargaining agreements affected by changes in healthcare benefits, referred to as the Non-national master agreement group.
Amount contributed to company- sponsored benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
Estimated future employer contributions to defined benefit plan, current fiscal year
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year, Description
Number of employees under a national master agreement and various supplemental agreements with local unions affiliated with Teamsters
Number of employees under a national master agreement and various supplemental agreements with local unions affiliated with Teamsters
Number of Teamsters
Majority of ground mechanics not employed under agreements
Ground mechanics employed under IAM agreements
Ground mechanics employed under International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) agreements
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid
Full-time employees affected by change in healthcare benefits
Full-time employees affected by change in healthcare benefits
Full-time employees affected by change in healthcare benefits
part-time employees affected by changes in healthcare benefits
part-time employees affected by changes in healthcare benefits
part-time employees affected by changes in healthcare benefits
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation, Present Value
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation, Present Value
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation, Present Value
Multi-employer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation, Fair Value Disclosure
Multi-employer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation, Fair Value Disclosure
Multi-employer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation, Fair Value Disclosure
Number of pilots under a collective bargaining agreement with the Independent Pilots Association
Number of pilots under a collective bargaining agreement with the Independent Pilots Association
Number of pilots under a collective bargaining agreement with the Independent Pilots Association
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments
DefinedBenefitPlanRecognizedNetGainLossDuetoSettlementsandCurtailmentsAfterTax
DefinedBenefitPlanRecognizedNetGainLossDuetoSettlementsandCurtailmentsAfterTax
Amount, after related tax effect, of net gain (loss) recognized in net periodic benefit cost as a result of an irrevocable action that relieves the employer (or the plan) of primary responsibility for a benefit obligation and eliminates significant risks related to the obligation and the assets used to effect the settlement.
Settlement payments to fund for assumption of postretirement benefit obligation
Settlement payments to fund for assumption of postretirement benefit obligation
Settlement payments to fund for assumption of postretirement benefit obligation
CashTaxBenefitDueToSettlementofBenefitObligation
CashTaxBenefitDueToSettlementofBenefitObligation
Amount of cash Tax Benefit Due To Settlement of Benefit Obligation
ChangeInPostRetirementBenefitandAOCI
Change In Post-Retirement Benefit and AOCI
Change In Post-Retirement Benefit and AOCI
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments
Defined Benefit Plan, Plans with Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Plans with Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Benefit Obligation