Accounts receivable securitization program
Accounts Receivable Securitization Program [Member]
The entity's accounts receivable securitization program under which a designated pool of trade accounts receivable is continuously sold to a wholly owned subsidiary, which is a bankruptcy-remote entity, which may borrow funds on a revolving basis.
ACCRUED EXPENSES
Accrued Liability Current Disclosure [Text Block]
Description and amounts of accrued expenses disclosure at the end of the reporting period. This element may be used for the entire disclosure as a single block of text.
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, by component
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period.
Acquired Logistics Company
Acquired Logistics Company [Member]
Represents information pertaining to a privately-owned logistics company acquired by the entity.
After-tax adjustment to correct the reserves for workers' compensation and third-party casualty claims
Adjustment for Workers Compensation and Third Party Casualty Claims, after Tax
Represents an adjustment to profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, to correct the reserves for workers' compensation and third-party casualty claims.
Albert Companies, Inc.
Albert Companies Inc [Member]
Represents information pertaining to Albert Companies, Inc. included in the Household Goods Moving Services segment.
Other and eliminations
All Other Segments and Eliminations [Member]
All other operating segments that do not meet the quantitative thresholds and thus are not classified as reportable segments, and intercompany eliminations.
Allowance for other accounts receivable
Allowance for Other Accounts Receivable [Member]
Allowance established for amounts due that are unlikely to be received related to other accounts receivable.
Allowances
Allowances [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for estimating the allowances for doubtful accounts, revenue adjustments and deferred tax assets.
Accrued interest liability on amended returns
Amended Returns Interest Accrued
The amount of estimated interest accrued as of the balance sheet date to be paid on amended returns.
Amendment Description
Amendment Description
Secured Notes Payable and Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Collateralized notes payable and borrowings recorded for leases meeting the criteria for capitalization.
Secured notes payable and capital leases
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Bank overdraft and drafts payable
Bank Overdraft and Drafts Payable
Carrying amount at the balance sheet date of payments made in excess of existing cash balances, which will be honored by the bank but reflected as a loan to the entity. Overdrafts generally have a very short time frame for correction or repayment and are therefore more similar to short-term bank financing than trade financing. Also includes amounts due on drafts payable at the balance sheet date.
Income (loss) before income taxes
Business Acquisition Pro Forma Income (Loss) before Income Taxes
The pro forma Income (Loss) before income taxes for the period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period.
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities, Accrued Liabilities and Other Current Liabilities
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to accrued expenses and other current liabilities of the acquired entity.
Deferred income taxes
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Deferred Tax Assets, Current
Gross amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to current deferred tax assets.
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Property, Plant and Equipment Excluding Software
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to property, plant and equipment to be used in ongoing operations, excluding software.
Property and equipment (excluding acquired software)
Software
Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Software
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to software to be used in ongoing operations.
Represents the term of the capital lease agreement entered into by the entity.
Term of capital lease agreements
Capital Lease Agreement Term
Annual amortization expense on acquired software for the full years 2014 through 2018
Capitalized Computer Software, Expected Annual Amortization
The amount expected to be charged to expense annually for amortization of capitalized computer software costs.
Central Pennsylvania Teamsters Pension Plan
Central Pennsylvania Teamsters Pension Plan [Member]
Represents the Central Pennsylvania Teamsters Pension Plan, a multiemployer plan of the entity.
Central States Pension Plan [Member]
Represents the Central States Pension Plan, a multiemployer plan of the entity.
Central States Pension Plan
Claims Liabilities
Claims Liabilities [Abstract]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Claims Liabilities
Claims Liabilities [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for the entity's claims liabilities. This disclosure may include the entity's self-insurance coverage up to certain limits for workers' compensation, certain third-party casualty claims and cargo loss and damage claims and full insurance of amounts in excess of self-insured limits as considered appropriate by the management of the entity.
Wage rate reduction under collective bargaining agreement upon implementation date (as a percent)
Collective Bargaining Agreement Immediate Wage Increase (Decrease)
Represents the percentage change in wage rates provided for in the collective bargaining agreement upon implementation.
Reduction in compensated vacation under collective bargaining agreement
Collective Bargaining Agreement, Period of Compensated Vacation Decrease
Represents the change in annual compensated vacation as provided for in the collective bargaining agreement.
Approximate initial reduction in combined total contractual wage and benefit rate under collective bargaining agreement (as a percent)
Collective Bargaining Agreement Total Contractual Wage and Benefit Rate (Decrease)
Represents the approximate net effect on the combined total contractual wage and benefit rate resulting from a benefit rate increase in the first year and the wage rate reduction upon implementation, as provided for in the collective bargaining agreement.
Wage rate increase in fifth year of collective bargaining agreement (as a percent)
Collective Bargaining Agreement Wage Rate Increase (Decrease) Year Five
Represents the percentage change in wage rates provided for in the collective bargaining agreement, for the fifth year of the agreement.
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Wage rate increase for next three years of collective bargaining agreement (as a percent)
Collective Bargaining Agreement Wage Rate Increase (Decrease) Years Two Through Four
Represents the percentage change in wage rates provided for in the collective bargaining agreement, for years two through four of the agreement.
Combined Contractual Wage and Benefit Contribution Rate Compounded Annual Increase
Represents the estimated percentage increase in combined contractual wage and benefit contribution rate on a compounded annual basis provided for in the second through fifth years of the collective bargaining agreement.
Estimated increase in compounded annual contractual wage and benefit contribution rates in second through fifth years (as a percent)
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Significant components of the deferred tax provision or benefit
Components of Deferred Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Contribution carryforwards
Contribution Carryforwards
Represents the contribution carryovers before tax effects available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws.
Represents a credit agreement entered into by the entity with a syndicate of financial institutions.
Credit Agreement
Credit Agreement [Member]
Represents additional benefit on death and retirement plan, a deferred compensation plan of the entity.
Additional benefit plan, death and retirement benefits
Death and Retirement Benefits, Additional Benefit Plan [Member]
Fixed charge coverage ratio
Debt Instrument Covenant Compliance Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Actual
Represents the fixed charge coverage ratio maintained by the entity during the period.
Minimum fixed charge coverage ratio required to be maintained
Debt Instrument Covenant Compliance Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Required
Represents the minimum fixed charge coverage ratio required to be maintained by the entity under the terms of the debt arrangement.
Deferred Compensation Arrangement Excluding Share-Based Payments by Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement Excluding Share-Based Payments by Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis]
Reflects the pertinent provisions pertaining to the type of deferred compensation (excluding equity-based payments).
Deferred Compensation Plans
Deferred Compensation Arrangement Excluding Share Based Payments by Type of Deferred Compensation [Line Items]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Amounts that were accrued at the end of the period under the Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan for payment in future periods.
Incentive payments accrued for Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan
Deferred Compensation Cash-based Arrangements, Liability, Noncurrent
Minimum period for election to defer receipt of a portion of salary and incentive compensation
Deferred Compensation Plan, Minimum Period for Election to Defer Benefits
Represents the minimum period prior to the end of the performance period for making an election to defer receipt of a portion of salary and incentive compensation.
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on allowance for doubtful accounts during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Amortization of intangibles
Deferred Income Tax Expense Benefit Amortization of Intangible Assets
Represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on amortization of intangible assets arising during the period due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Share-based compensation
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Compensation and Benefits Share Based Compensation Cost
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on equity-based compensation costs during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Compensation Plans
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on deferred compensation plans costs during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Deferred compensation plans
Leases
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Lease
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on lease expense during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Operating Loss Carryforwards Domestic
Represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on domestic operating loss carryforwards during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Federal net operating loss carryforwards
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on state and local operating loss carryforwards during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
State net operating loss carryforwards
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Operating Loss Carryforwards State and Local
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Other
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on other costs not otherwise specified in the taxonomy during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on other accrued expenses during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Other accrued expenses
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other Accrued Expenses
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on pension and other retirement plans costs during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Nonunion pension and other retirement plans
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Pension and Other Retirement Plans
Amortization, depreciation, and basis differences for property, plant and equipment and other long-lived assets
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Property, Plant and Equipment
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on amortization, depreciation and basis difference for property, plant and equipment arising during the period due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Reserves for Worker Compensation and Cargo Claims
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on changes in reserves for workers' compensation and cargo claims arising during the period due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Changes in reserves for workers' compensation and cargo claims
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Revenue Recognition
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on revenue recognition arising during the period due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Revenue recognition
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Depreciation Adjustments
Represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on state depreciation adjustments during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
State depreciation adjustments
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on foreign tax credit carryforwards, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities
Foreign tax credit carryforward
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Credit Carryforwards Foreign
This element represents the amount of deferred tax provision or (benefit) on valuation allowance during the period, due to an increase or decrease in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations.
Valuation allowance decrease
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Valuation Allowance
Deferred Salary Agreement [Member]
Represents deferred salary agreements, a deferred compensation plan of the entity.
Deferred salary agreements
Period of estimate of future compensation rates used to establish the assumed rate of compensation increase
Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Rate of Compensation Increase Period of Estimate of Future Compensation Rates
Represents the period of estimate of future compensation rates used to establish the assumed rate of compensation increase.
Expected return on plan assets expected to be utilized in determining pension plan expenses for next fiscal year (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost Expected Long Term Return on Assets for Next Fiscal Year
This element represents the long-term expected rate of return expected to be utilized in determining defined benefit pension plan expense for the next fiscal year.
Pension benefit obligation settled with nonparticipating annuity contract
Defined Benefit Plan Benefit Obligation Settled with Nonparticipating Annuity Contract
Amount of defined benefit plan benefit obligation related to vested benefit obligations of participants and beneficiaries receiving monthly benefits which was settled with nonparticipating annuity contract.
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Distributions and pension settlement expense
Defined Benefit Plan, Distributions and Pension Settlement Expense [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements
Pension settlement expense, pre-tax
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements
Adjusted funding target attainment percentage
Defined Benefit Plan Funding Target Attainment, Percentage
Represents the adjusted funding target attainment percentage for the plan as of the valuation date.
Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year, Post-65 (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year for Age Group Two
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year for Age Group Two
Period over which the possibility of experiencing a substantial loss is limited by adequate diversification under the long-term asset allocation policy
Defined Benefit Plan, Long Term Asset Allocation Policy Possibility of Experiencing Substantial Loss to be Limited Period
Represents the period over which the possibility of experiencing a substantial loss is limited by adequate diversification under the long-term asset allocation policy.
Defined Benefit Plan Lump Sum Distribution Paid
Defined Benefit Plan Lump Sum Distribution Paid
The amount of lump sum benefit distributions paid.
Period of delay provision for key employees as required by Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code related to lump-sum termination payment
Defined Benefit Plan, Lump-sum Termination Payment, Period of Delay Provision for Key Employees as per Internal Revenue Code
Represents the period of delay provision for key employees as required by Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code related to lump-sum termination payment.
Represents the percentage of the entity's defined benefit pension plan investments in debt instruments that belong to a particular class or type of security.
Percentage of investments in debt instruments
Defined Benefit Plan, Percentage of Investments in Debt Instruments
The amount of net gain (loss), per diluted share, net of taxes, 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.
Pension settlement expense per diluted share, net of taxes
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net, Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements Per Diluted Share Net of Taxes
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline, Post-65 (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate for Age Group Two
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate for Age Group Two
The average remaining future years of service of plan participants over which the unrecognized net actuarial loss will be amortized.
Amortization period for unrecognized net actuarial loss
Defined Benefit Plan Approximate Amortization Period for Unrecognized Net Actuarial Loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate for Age Group Two
Year that the rate reaches the cost trend assumed rate, Post-65
Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate for Age Group Two
401(k) Plan
Defined Contribution 401 K Plan [Member]
Represents a defined contribution 401(k) plan.
Represents the maximum percentage of the salary, the plan participants are permitted to defer under the 401(k) plans.
Maximum percentage of salary permitted to be deferred by plan participants
Defined Contribution Plan, 401 K Plan Maximum Percentage of Salary Permitted to be Deferred by Plan Participants
Rate of employer match on participant contributions
Defined Contribution Plan 401 K Plan Rate of Employer Match
Represents the percentage rate at which the employer matches the eligible percentage of participants' compensation.
Defined Contribution Plan
Defined Contribution Plan [Member]
Represents a defined contribution plan replacing the defined benefit pension plan for nonunion employees hired subsequent to December 31, 2005.
Period of service for participants' full vesting in the employer's contributions
Defined Contribution Plan, Requisite Service Period
The minimum period that the individual is required to perform services in order to be fully vested under the deferred compensation arrangement.
Cash, cash equivalents, and certificates of deposit which are not FDIC-insured
Deposits Uninsured Amount
The amount of cash, cash equivalents and certificates of deposit as of the balance sheet date that is not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation Depletion and Amortization, Excluding Intangible Assets
The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of tangible assets or depleting assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets.
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION EXPENSE
Document and Entity Information
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Federal, State, and Local Jurisdiction
Domestic State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
The designated tax department of the government, including federal, state, or local government entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity.
Driver network
Driver Network [Member]
An asset acquired in a business combination representing a relationship that exists between the entity and a network of drivers.
Emergency & Preventative Maintenance (FleetNet)
Emergency and Preventative Maintenance [Member]
Represents the Emergency and Preventative Maintenance segment.
Emergency and Preventative Maintenance (FleetNet)
Emerging Market Equity
Emerging Market Equity Securities [Member]
Represents the investment in emerging market equity securities.
Employee Service Share Based Compensation Tax Benefit Realized From Exercise Of Stock Options And Dividends On Share Based Payment Awards
Disclosure of the aggregate tax benefit realized from the exercise of stock options and the conversion of similar instruments during the annual period and dividends on share-based payment awards.
Tax benefit of options exercised and dividends on share-based payment awards
Equipment financed
Equipment Financed under Notes Payable and Capital Leases
Represents equipment financed under notes payable and capital leases during the period.
Equipment Financed under Notes Payable and Capital Leases
Cost
Finite and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Sum of the gross carrying amounts before accumulated amortization or impairments, if any, as of the balance sheet date of all intangible assets.
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Annual amortization expense on intangible assets expected for the full years 2014 through 2018
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Annual Amortization Next Five Fiscal Years
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized annually for the next five fiscal years following the latest fiscal year, for intangible assets subject to amortization.
Floating Rate Loan
Floating Rate Loan Fund [Member]
A mutual fund investment in adjustable rate loans of various issuers.
Floating Rate Loan Fund
Foreign currency translation and other [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation:
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Represents the Freight Transportation segment.
Freight Transportation (ABF Freight)
ABF Freight
Freight Transportation [Member]
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Fuel, supplies, and expenses
Fuel, Supplies and Expenses
Fuel costs incurred that are directly related to services rendered during the reporting period and the cost of materials used in services rendered during the reporting period. It also includes costs related to selling products and services, as well as other general and administrative expenses not separately disclosed in operating expenses and costs.
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Household Goods Moving Services (ABF Moving)
Household Goods Moving Services [Member]
Represents the Household Goods Moving Services segment.
Household Goods Moving Services (ABF Moving)
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Interest paid on income tax obligations
Income Tax Interest Paid
The amount of interest paid during the period related to income taxes.
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Federal income tax effects of:
Income Tax Reconciliation, Federal Income Tax Effects [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Life insurance proceeds and changes in cash surrender value
Income Tax Reconciliation, Life Insurance Proceeds and Changes
The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to life insurance proceeds and changes in cash surrender value.
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of obligations incurred but not paid, accrued expenses incurred but not paid, and other operating obligations not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows.
Insurance-Related Assessments
Insurance Related Assessments [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for insurance related assessments which includes any funding mandated by statute or regulatory authority that is related directly or indirectly to underwriting activities, including pools for self-insurance and excluding premium taxes and income taxes. The funds derived from the assessments generally enable a government guarantor to pay insurance claims in the event that the underwriting insurer is insolvent or otherwise unable to meet its payment obligations.
Intercompany cost allocations included in operating revenues
Intercompany Cost Allocations, Reclassification Adjustment
Intercompany Cost Allocations, Reclassification Adjustment
International Equity
International Equity Securities [Member]
Represents the investment in international equity securities.
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Maximum average effective duration period of investments under investment restrictions
Investment Restrictions Maximum Average Effective Duration of Investments
Represents the maximum average effective duration period of investments under investment restrictions related to the actively managed portfolio of the entity.
Investment Restrictions Maximum Maturity Period of Investments
Represents the maximum maturity period of investments under investment restrictions to the actively managed portfolio of the entity.
Maximum maturity period of investments under investment restrictions
Maximum percentage of portfolio under investment restrictions invested in BBB rated debt or collectively in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities
Investment Restrictions Maximum Percentage of Portfolio Investments in Specified Securities
Represents the maximum percentage of portfolio investments in BBB rated debt or collectively in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities.
Maximum percentage of portfolio investments under investment restrictions represented by a single issue or issuer other than U.S. government securities
Investment Restrictions Maximum Percentage of Portfolio Investments Represented by A Single Issue or Issuer Other than U S Government Securities
Represents the maximum percentage of portfolio investments represented by a single issue or issuer other than U.S. government securities.
Gross amount as of the balance sheet date of real estate held for productive use and long-lived depreciable assets that include building structures held for productive use including any addition, improvement, or renovation to the structure, such as interior masonry, interior flooring, electrical, and plumbing.
Land and structures
Land and Structures, Gross
Represents the investment in large cap U.S. equity securities.
Large Cap U.S. Equity
Large Cap U S Equity Securities [Member]
Letters of Credit Agreements [Member]
Agreements with financial institutions that provide facilities for the issuance of letters of credit that are collateralized by restricted cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments.
Letter of Credit Agreements
Letters Of Credit, Outstanding Amount Used As Collateral
Letters of credit, outstanding amount used as collateral
Letters of Credit, Outstanding Amount Used As Collateral
Liabilities for workers' compensation excess claims insured by, but not expected to be covered by the excess insurers
Liabilities for Workers Compensation Excess Claims
Represents the liabilities for workers' compensation excess claims insured but not expected to be covered by the insurance company.
Recognized gains associated with changes in the cash surrender value and proceeds from life insurance policies
Life Insurance Policy Recognized Gains
Represents the recognized gains associated with changes in the cash surrender value and proceeds from life insurance policies.
Local 710 Pension Fund [Member]
Represents the Local 710 Pension Fund, a multiemployer plan of the entity.
Local 710 Pension Fund
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan
Long Term Cash Incentive Plan [Abstract]
Earning period of Long-term cash incentive plan
Long Term Cash Incentive Plan Earning Period
Represents the earning period of incentives under the Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan.
Maximum expected period for payment of state guaranty fund assessments and other insurance-related assessments
Loss Contingency, Undiscounted Amount of Insurance Related Assessment Liability, Payment Period, Maximum
The maximum period of time over which the undiscounted amount of the required funding mandated by statute or regulatory authority that is related directly or indirectly to underwriting activities, including pools for self-insurance and excluding premium taxes and income taxes, is expected to be paid.
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Payments under long-term debt obligations
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases [Abstract]
Represents aggregate future amounts due of contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization and maturities on long-term debt, including interest.
Total payments
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases Due
Due in one year or less
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases Due Current
Represents amount of contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization and maturities on long-term debt, including interest, due within one year of the latest balance sheet date presented.
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Due after four years through five years
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases Due in Five Years
Represents amount of contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization and maturities on long-term debt, including interest, due after four and within five years of the latest balance sheet date presented.
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Represents amount of contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization and maturities on long-term debt, including interest, due after three and within four years of the latest balance sheet date presented.
Due after three years through four years
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases Due in Four Years
Due after two years through three years
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases Due in Three Years
Represents amount of contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization and maturities on long-term debt, including interest, due after two and within three years of the latest balance sheet date presented.
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases Due in Two Years
Represents amount of contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization and maturities on long-term debt, including interest, due after one and within two years of the latest balance sheet date presented.
Due after one year through two years
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases Due Thereafter
Represents amount of contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization and maturities on long-term debt, including interest, due after five years from the latest balance sheet date presented.
Due after five years
Less amounts representing interest
Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases Interest Included in Payments
Represents the interest amount by which long-term debt payments are reduced to calculate the present value of long-term debt.
Maximum performance period of investment fund used to compare investment performance
Maximum performance Period of Investment Funds Used to Compare Investment Performance
Maximum of additional performance period to which investment performance is compared for each pension investment fund.
Mid Cap U.S. Equity
Mid Cap Equity Securities [Member]
Represents the investment in mid cap equity securities.
Minimum percentage of cities in the United States to which direct service is provided
Minimum, Percentage of Cities in United States to which Direct Service is Provided
Represents the minimum percentage of cities in the United States to which direct service is provided by the entity.
Minimum Performance Period Of Total Funds Used To Compare Investment Performance
Minimum additional performance period to which investment performance is compared for the total pension fund.
Minimum performance period of total fund used to compare investment performance
Minimum population of cities in the United States to which direct service is provided
Minimum, Population of Cities in United States to which Direct Service is Provided
Represents the minimum population of cities in the United States to which direct service is provided by the entity.
Represents the funded percentage of a specified multiemployer pension plan.
Actuarially certified funded percentage of multiemployer pension plan
Multiemployer Pension Plan, Funded Percentage
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Maximum funded percentage of plans in red zone
Multiemployer Pension Plans Maximum Funded Percentage of Plans in Red Zone
Represents the maximum funded percentage of plans in the red zone.
Document Type
Document Type
Maximum funded percentage of plans in yellow zone
Multiemployer Pension Plans, Maximum Funded Percentage of Plans in Yellow Zone
Represents the maximum funded percentage of plans in the yellow zone.
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Percentage of contributions to multiemployer pension plan
Multiemployer Pension Plans Percentage of Contributions
Represents the percentage of the entity's contributions to multiemployer pension plans that are made to the specified plan.
Percentage of contributions to the multiemployer pension plans that are in critical status
Multiemployer Pension Plans, Percentage of Contributions to Plans in Critical Status
Represents the percentage of the entity's contributions to multiemployer pension plans that are made to plans in critical status.
Percentage of contributions to the multiemployer pension plans that are in endangered status
Multiemployer Pension Plans, Percentage of Contributions to Plans in Endangered Status
Represents the percentage of the entity's contributions to multiemployer pension plans that are made to plans in endangered status.
Period of extension granted by Internal Revenue Service for amortization of unfunded liabilities
Multiemployer Pension Plans Period of Extension for Amortization of Unfunded Liabilities for Specified Fund
Represents the period of extension granted by the Internal Revenue Service for amortization of unfunded liabilities by a specified fund.
Represents the maximum increased required contribution percentage by contributing employers to multiemployer plans that enter reorganization status.
Maximum required increase in employer's contribution to multiemployer plans that enter reorganization status (as a percent)
Multiemployer Pension Plans, Reorganization Status, Maximum Percentage of Increased Employer's Contribution
Threshold percentage of the entity's contributions relative to total fund contributions, which was exceeded during the period
Multiemployer Plan, Minimum Percentage Threshold of Contributions to Total Plan Contributions Received by Pension Fund
Represents the threshold percentage of the entity's contributions to the plan relative to total contributions received by the plan, which was exceeded during the period, triggering disclosure of the plan year.
Multiemployer health and welfare plans
Multiemployer Plans Health and Welfare [Member]
Health and Welfare benefit plan to which two or more unrelated employers contribute where assets contributed by one participating employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers.
Multiemployer Plans Number
Represents the number of multiemployer plans to which the reporting entity currently contributes.
Number of multiemployer plans to which ABF Freight currently contributes
Net Change In Restricted Cash, Cash Equivalents, And Short-Term Investments
The net cash inflow or outflow during the period for the aggregate increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use (such as assets held in escrow or contractually limited as to use or disposition).
Net change in restricted cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments
Nonemployee Director [Member]
Represents non-employee directors who may be eligible to receive awards under the share-based compensation plans.
Nonemployee director
Nonparticipating Annuity Contract Premium Paid
Amount of premium paid for nonparticipating annuity contract to settle vested benefit obligations of participants and beneficiaries receiving monthly benefits.
Premium paid to purchase nonparticipating annuity contract
State net operating loss and contribution carryforwards expiration period
Operating Loss and Contribution Carryforwards Expiration Period
Represents the expiration period of net operating loss and contribution carryovers.
Operating Loss and Contribution Carryforwards Majority Expiration Period One
Majority of state net operating loss and contribution carryforwards, expiration period one
Represents the first of two expiration periods that apply to the majority of net operating loss and contribution carryovers.
Represents the second of two expiration periods that apply to the majority of net operating loss and contribution carryovers.
Majority of state net operating loss and contribution carryforwards, expiration period two
Operating Loss and Contribution Carryforwards Majority Expiration Period Two
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration period
Operating Loss Carryforwards Expiration Period
Represents the expiration period of net operating loss carryovers.
Other, net of tax of: (2011 - $70)
Other Components of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Portion Attributable to Parent
Represents the other components of other comprehensive income (loss) not elsewhere specified in the taxonomy.
Other Components of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Tax Portion Attributable to Parent
Represents the tax effect of other components of other comprehensive income (loss) not elsewhere specified in the taxonomy.
Other, tax
Net gain from curtailment, net of tax of: (2013 - Three-month period $11,384, Six-month period $11,384)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Non-Pension Postretirement Plan Valuation, Curtailments, Net of Tax
Net of tax amount of the gain (loss) adjustment to other comprehensive income (loss) resulting from the curtailment of the entity's defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans.
Net gain from curtailment, tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Finalization of Pension and Non-Pension Postretirement Plan Valuation, Curtailments, Tax
Tax effect of the gain (loss) adjustment to other comprehensive income (loss) resulting from the curtailment of the entity's defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans.
Net of tax amount of the gain (loss) adjustment to other comprehensive income (loss) resulting from the settlement of the entity's defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Non-Pension Postretirement Plan Valuation, Settlements, Net of Tax
Pension settlement expense, net of tax
Pension settlement expense, net of tax of: (2014 - Three- month period $353, Six-month period $1,789)
Tax effect of the gain (loss) adjustment to other comprehensive income (loss) resulting from the settlement of the entity's defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans.
Pension settlement expense, tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Finalization of Pension and Non-Pension Postretirement Plan Valuation, Settlements, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Curtailments, Net of Tax
Curtailment gain, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Curtailments, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Curtailments, before Tax
Curtailment gain, before tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Curtailments, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), Net of Tax
Net actuarial gain related to change in discount rate, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), Net of Tax
Net actuarial gain related to change in discount rate, before tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), before Tax
Pension settlement expense
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Settlement Gain (Expense), Before Tax
Amount before tax of reclassification adjustment from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for settlement gain (expense) related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans.
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Other Plans
Other Plans [Abstract]
Other tax disclosures
Other Tax Disclosures [Abstract]
Represents other income tax disclosures
Represents information pertaining to Panther Expedited Services Inc. included in the Premium Logistics and Expedited Freight Services segment.
Panther Expedited Services, Inc.
Panther Expedited Services Inc [Member]
Pension and other postretirement benefit plans:
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Represents the performance period of recognized market indices that are used to compare investment performance of the entity.
Performance period of recognized market indices used to compare investment performance
Performance Period of Recognized Market Indices Used to Compare Investment Performance
Represents the premium logistics and expedited freight services segment.
Premium Logistics and Expedited Freight Services
Premium Logistics & Expedited Freight Services
Premium Logistics and Expedited Freight Services [Member]
Prepaid and refundable income taxes
Prepaid and Income Taxes Receivable, Current
This element represents carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of payments made in advance for income taxes, which will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Also represents, carrying amount due within one year of the balance sheet date (or one operating cycle, if longer) from tax authorities as of the balance sheet date representing refunds of overpayments or recoveries based on agreed-upon resolutions of disputes.
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Accounts receivable, less allowances (2014 - $4,948; 2013 - $4,533)
Increase in operating expenses without cost allocation
Pro Forma, Increase (Decrease) in Operating Expenses
Pro Forma, Increase (Decrease) in Operating Expenses
Purchased transportation
Purchased Transportation
This element represents expenses for transportation services purchased from third parties.
Rents and Purchased Transportation
This element represents expenses of rent and transportation services purchased from third parties.
Rents and purchased transportation
Restricted Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-Term Investments
Restricted Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short Term Investments [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for restricted cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments.
Restricted stock and restricted stock units awarded by a company to its non-employee directors and certain key employees as a form of incentive compensation.
Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Restricted Stock Units
Revenue and earnings included since acquisition date
Revenue And Earnings Included Since Acquisition Date [Abstract]
Revenue and earnings of Panther included in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations since acquisition date.
Gross amount as of the balance sheet date of long-lived, depreciable assets used in the business of transporting freight, primarily tractors and trailers.
Revenue equipment
Revenue Equipment, Gross
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine nonunion benefit obligations
Schedule of Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the assumptions used to determine for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans the benefit obligation, including assumed discount rates and rate increase in compensation increase.
Tabular disclosure of the assumptions used to determine for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans the net benefit cost, including assumed discount rates, rate increase in compensation increase, and expected long-term rates of return on plan assets.
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for nonunion benefit plans
Schedule of Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Table Text Block]
Schedule, table or text reflecting deferred compensation arrangements that are not equity-based payments. Disclosure typically includes the amount of related compensation expense recognized during the reporting period and the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of the related liability.
Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement Excluding Share-Based Payments by Type of Deferred Compensation [Table]
Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement Excluding Share-Based Payments by Type of Deferred Compensation [Table]
Tabular disclosure of intangibles assets, excluding goodwill, in total and by major class, including the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, if applicable. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company.
Schedule of intangible assets
Schedule of Finite and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of the major classes of finite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets showing the amount, any significant residual value, weighted average amortization period if applicable, and other characteristics.
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Scheduled maturities of long-term debt obligations
Schedule of Maturities of Long Term Debt and Future Minimum Payments under Capital Leases [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization and maturities on long-term debt as of the date of the latest balance sheet date presented, in aggregate and for each of the five succeeding years, with separate deductions from the total for the amount of the imputed interest necessary to reduce the required rental payments and debt maturities to present value.
Schedule of Assets, Capital Expenditures, and Depreciation and Amortization Information by Segment [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the assets, capital expenditures and depreciation and amortization information for each reportable segment.
Schedule of asset by reportable operating segment
Schedule of Assets Securitizing Debt or Held Under Capital Leases [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of assets securitizing debt or held under capital leases included in property, plant and equipment.
Schedule of assets securitizing notes payable or held under capital leases
Tabular disclosure of components of deferred tax provision (benefit).
Schedule of significant components of the deferred tax provision or benefit
Schedule of Components of Deferred Tax Provision (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the weighted-average target, acceptable ranges, and actual asset allocation percentage by major asset class of defined benefit plan assets.
Weighted-average target. acceptable ranges, and actual asset allocations of the nonunion defined benefit pension plan
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Target, Acceptable Ranges, and Actual Asset Allocations [Table Text Block]
Schedule of changes in the PBO and plan assets of the nonunion defined benefit pension plan
Schedule of Net Funded Status and Changes in Accumulated Benefit Obligation [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of net funded status of pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans and disclosure of accumulated benefit obligation.
Summary of cash distributions and pension settlement expense related to SBP
Schedule of Supplemental Benefit Plan Distributions and Pension Settlement Expense [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the distributions and pension settlement expense under the supplemental benefit plan of the entity.
Segment Percentage of Revenue before Other Revenues and Intercompany Eliminations
Percentage of the entity's revenues before other revenues and intercompany eliminations represented by a specified segment.
Percentage of the Company's revenues, before other revenues and intercompany eliminations, represented by ABF Freight
Service, office, and other equipment
Service, Office and Other Equipment, Gross
Gross amount at the balance sheet date for long-lived, depreciable assets used for providing services including assets commonly used in offices and other assets not otherwise defined in the taxonomy.
Schedule of restricted stock units granted during the year
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit Award, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the weighted-average grant-date fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units granted during the year.
The period of time from the grant date until the time at which the share-based award expires.
Expiration period
Share Based Compensation Arrangements by Share Based Payment Award, Expiration Term
Represents an actively managed portfolio of short duration debt instruments in which a portion of plan assets have been invested since 2012.
Actively managed portfolio of short duration debt instruments
Short Duration Debt Instrument Portfolio 2012 [Member]
Represents an actively managed short-term portfolio of debt instruments in which a portion of plan assets have been invested since 2009.
Actively managed portfolio of short-term debt instruments
Short-term Debt Instrument Portfolio 2009 [Member]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Represents information pertaining to a single customer.
Single customer
Single Customer [Member]
Small Cap U.S. Equity
Small Cap U S Equity Securities [Member]
Represents the investment in small cap U.S. equity securities.
State Operating Losses and Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
State Operating Losses and Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
State Operating Losses and Deferred Tax Assets
Aggregate cost of shares repurchased
Stock Repurchase Aggregate Cost
The aggregate cost of shares repurchased to date under a stock repurchase program.
Additional amount of stock repurchases authorized
Stock Repurchase Program, Additional Authorized Amount
The additional amount authorized by an entity's Board of Directors under a stock repurchase plan.
Shares repurchased
Stock Repurchased Balance
Number of shares repurchased to date under a stock repurchase plan.
Outstanding surety bonds under collateralized bond program
Surety Bond Amounts Outstanding under Collateralized Program
Represents the total amount of outstanding surety bonds under the collateralized bond program related to the self-insurance program as of the reporting date.
Surety Bonds Amount Outstanding under Uncollateralized Program
Represents the total amount of outstanding surety bonds under the uncollateralized bond program related to the self-insurance program as of the reporting date.
Outstanding surety bonds under uncollateralized bond programs
Operating loss and contribution carryforwards
Tax Carryforwards [Line Items]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Tax Carryforwards [Table]
Tax Carryforwards [Table]
Schedule reflecting pertinent information, such as tax authority, amounts, and expiration dates, of various tax carryforwards, including an assessment of the likehood of utilization.
Accounts receivable
Accounts Receivable [Member]
Represents the expiration period of tax credit carryovers.
Foreign tax credit carryforwards, expiration period
Tax Credit Carryforward, Expiration Period
Treasury Stock [Abstract]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Treasury Stock
Domestic & Global Transportation Management
Truck Brokerage and Management [Member]
Represents the truck brokerage and management segment.
Represents the number of states in which reporting entity's subsidiaries' underground fuel storage tanks are located.
Number of states in which underground tanks are located
Underground Fuel Storage Tanks Locations, Number of States
Number of underground tanks where the company's subsidiaries store fuel for use in tractors and trucks
Underground Fuel Storage Tanks, Number
Represents the number of underground tanks in which the reporting entity's subsidiaries store fuel.
Reversal of deferred tax valuation allowances excluded from pro forma information (in dollars per share)
Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Asset Change in Amount Per Share
Represents the per share amount of the change in the valuation allowance for a specified deferred tax asset.
Number of plan participants for which vested pension benefits were settled
Vested Benefit Obligation Settled Number of Participants
Number of participants and beneficiaries for which vested benefit obligations were settled with nonparticipating annuity contract.
Voluntary Savings Plan
Voluntary Savings Plan Mutual Funds [Member]
Represents Voluntary Savings Plan, a nonqualified deferred compensation plan of the entity. Consists of U.S. and international equity mutual funds, government and corporate bond mutual funds and money market funds held in a trust with a third-party brokerage firm related to the Voluntary Savings Plan, a nonqualified deferred compensation plan maintained by the entity for the benefit of certain of its executives.
Voluntary Savings Plan - mutual funds held in trust
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan [Member]
Represents the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan, a multiemployer plan of the entity.
Represents the low end of the range of average state tax rates during the period.
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation State and Local Income Taxes Low End of Range
State tax, low end of range of rate (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation State and Local Income Taxes, High End of Range
State tax, high end of range of rate (as a percent)
Represents the high end of the range of average state tax rates during the period.
Income Tax Credits Alternative Fuel Tax Prior Year
Alternative fuel tax credit, 2012
Government or taxing authority authorized decrease in taxes owed as a result of the alternative fuel tax credit, attributable to the prior fiscal year.
Income Tax Credits Alternative Fuel Tax Current Year
Alternative fuel tax credit, 2013
Government or taxing authority authorized decrease in taxes owed as a result of the alternative fuel tax credit, attributable to the current fiscal year.
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Federal Income Tax Effects [Abstract]
Federal income tax effects of:
Multiemployer Pension Plan Contribution Proportion Made to Specified Fund
Approximate proportion of multiemployer pension plan contributions made to Central States Pension Fund (as a percent)
Represents the approximate proportion of multiemployer pension plan contributions made to a specified fund by entity.
Tabular disclosure of net funded status of pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans and disclosure of accumulated benefit obligation.
Schedule of changes in the PBO and plan assets of the nonunion defined benefit pension plan
Schedule of Net Funded Status and Changes in Accumulated Benefit Obligation and Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Premium Logistics (Panther)
Represents the Premium Logistics segment.
Premium Logistics [Member]
Premium Logistics (Panther)
Represents the Transportation Management segment.
Transportation Management [Member]
Transportation Management (ABF Logistics)
Percentage of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to the alternative fuel tax credit.
Alternative fuel tax credit (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Tax Credits Fuel Tax
Alternative fuel tax credit (as a percent)
Alternative fuel tax credit
Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to the alternative fuel tax credit.
Income Tax Reconciliation Tax Credits Fuel Tax
Debt Instrument Collateral Property Plant And Equipment Gross
The gross amount of property, plant and equipment pledged to secure a debt instrument.
Total assets securitizing notes payable or held under capital leases
Debt Instrument Collateral Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Property Plant and Equipment
Amount of accumulated depreciation and amortization on property, plant and equipment pledged to secure a debt instrument.
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
Net assets securitizing notes payable or held under capital leases
Debt Instrument Collateral Property Plant And Equipment Net
The net amount of property, plant and equipment pledged to secure a debt instrument.
The aggregate amount of expenditures for salaries, wages, profit sharing and incentive compensation, and other employee benefits, including equity-based compensation, and pension and other postretirement benefit expense. Also includes insurance and other operating expenses not listed elsewhere.
Salaries, benefits, insurance, and other
Labor and Related Expense and Insurance and Other Expenses
Underground Fuel Storage Tanks [Member]
Contingency related to the storage of fuel in underground tanks.
Underground fuel storage tanks
Clean Water Act Litigation [Member]
Contingency related to a sixty-day Notice of Intent to Sue received under the federal Clean Water Act.
Clean Water Act
Environmental cleanup costs
Environmental Cleanup Costs [Member]
Contingency related to environmental cleanup costs of properties currently or previously operated by the entity.
Privately-owned businesses acquired by the entity.
Acquired privately-owned businesses
Acquired Privately Owned Businesses [Member]
Reduction in pension liability due to nonunion defined benefit pension plan curtailment
The reduction during the period to the liability recognized in the balance sheet for defined benefit plans, resulting from curtailment of the nonunion defined benefit pension plan.
Decrease in Pension and Postretirement Liabilities Due to Nonunion Defined Benefit Pension Plan Curtailment
Reduction in net deferred tax assets due to nonunion defined benefit pension plan curtailment
The reduction during the period to net deferred tax assets resulting from nonunion defined benefit pension plan curtailment.
Decrease in Net Deferred Tax Assets Defined Benefit Plan Curtailment
Taxes other than income
Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accrued vacation pay
Accrued Vacation, Current
Accrued Income Taxes, Current
Income taxes payable
Accrued compensation
Accrued Salaries, Current
Total accrued expenses
Accrued Liabilities, Current
Accrued expenses
Reserve for environmental contingencies
Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current
Less accumulated amortization
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Less allowances for depreciation and amortization
Unrecognized Net Periodic Benefit Costs
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Amortization of Unrecognized Net Periodic Benefit Costs
Unrecognized net periodic benefit costs
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax
Total after-tax amount
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Balances at beginning of the period
Balances at end of the period
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Foreign currency translation
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, after-tax amounts:
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, by component
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Total pre-tax amount
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Foreign Currency Translation
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]
Foreign currency translation
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock
Additional Paid-In Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Amortization expense on intangible assets
Amortization [Abstract]
Tax effect of share-based compensation plans
Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net
Share-based compensation expense
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, allowances (in dollars)
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable and revenue adjustments
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Other accounts receivable, allowances (in dollars)
Allowance for Doubtful Other Receivables, Current
Amortization of intangibles
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Intangible amortization expense
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive securities
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Outstanding stock awards not included in calculation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Asset Retirement Obligations
Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract]
Asset Retirement Obligations
Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Impairment Assessment of Long-Lived Assets
Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract]
Estimated asset retirement obligation
Asset Retirement Obligation
Asset-backed securities
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Assets held for sale which are reported within other noncurrent assets
Assets Held-for-sale, Other, Noncurrent
ASSETS
Assets
TOTAL ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
Assets, Current [Abstract]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
Assets, Current
Financial Assets at Fair Value
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Structures
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Prepaid expenses
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets
Diluted earnings (loss) per share (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Accounts payable
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable
Accounts receivable
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables
Deferred income taxes
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Pro forma consolidated statement of operations
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Other liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other
Total identifiable assets acquired
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets
Schedule of unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Intangible assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill
Total liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities
ACQUISITION
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisitions
Other assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets
Business acquisition, acquired percentage
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired
Percentage of equity interest acquired
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Operating revenues
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Net income (loss) attributable to Arkansas Best Corporation
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, gross contractual amount
Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Gross Contractual Amount
ACQUISITION
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value
Accounts receivable, fair value
Accounts receivable, estimated uncollectible
Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Estimated Uncollectible
Fair value of acquired assets and liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Goodwill related to acquisition expected to be fully tax deductible
Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount
Net identifiable assets acquired
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Acquisition related costs
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs
Cash paid, net of cash acquired
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Capital lease obligations
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Accruals for equipment received
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
Amortization expense
Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization
Software
Capitalized Computer Software, Gross
Carrying value
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-Term Investments
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments [Text Block]
Cash deposits
Cash [Member]
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Cash surrender value of life insurance policies
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance
Certificates of deposit
Certificates of Deposit [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
OPERATING LEASES
Commitments Disclosure [Text Block]
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS, ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS, AND OTHER EVENTS
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common Stock
Common Stock [Member]
Common stock, $0.01 par value, authorized 70,000,000 shares; issued 2014: 27,692,464 shares; 2013: 27,507,241 shares
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Common stock, issued shares
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Dividends declared (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
CASH DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER COMMON SHARE (in dollars per share)
Common stock, authorized shares
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Concentration of Credit Risk
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Organization and description of business
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration of Credit Risk
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentrations of Credit Risk of Financial Instruments
Concentration Risks, Types, No Concentration Percentage [Abstract]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Percentage of concentration of credit risk
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Percentage of ABF Freight's employees covered under collective bargaining agreement with the IBT
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Variable Interest Entities
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Corporate debt securities
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Operating taxes and licenses
Cost of Services, Direct Taxes and Licenses Costs
Exit or Disposal Activities
Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities or Restructurings, Policy [Policy Text Block]
OPERATING EXPENSES
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Operating expenses
Costs and Expenses
Operating expenses and costs
OPERATING EXPENSES
Credit concentration risk
Credit Concentration Risk [Member]
State
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current provision (benefit):
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Foreign
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)
Federal
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current provision (benefit)
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Customer relationships
Customer Relationships [Member]
Customer concentration risk
Customer Concentration Risk [Member]
Financing Arrangements
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt obligations
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Face amount of term loan
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt issued for funding the acquisition
Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]
LONG-TERM DEBT AND FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
Long-term debt
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Debt obligations
LONG-TERM DEBT AND FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
Debt instrument, term
Debt Instrument, Term
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Weighted-average interest rate (as a percent)
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instruments
Debt Securities [Member]
Long-Term Debt
Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Interest rate (as a percent)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End
Deferred Compensation Plans
Deferred Compensation Arrangements [Abstract]
Recorded assets
Deferred Compensation Plan Assets
Federal
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred provision (benefit):
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Foreign
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred tax provision (benefit)
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred income tax benefit
State
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Deferred Tax Asset [Domain]
Deferred Tax Asset [Domain]
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost
Share-based compensation
Other
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Postretirement liabilities other than pensions
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits
Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract]
Accrued expenses
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities
Federal and state net operating loss carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards
Pension liabilities
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Pensions
Valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Valuation allowance
Prepaid expenses
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Expense, Other Capitalized Costs
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Amortization, depreciation, and basis differences for property, plant and equipment and other long-lived assets
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Intangibles
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets
Total deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract]
Revenue recognition
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Tax Deferred Income
Recorded liabilities
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current and Noncurrent
Pre-tax amounts, which are reported within accumulated other comprehensive loss, expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost in next fiscal year
Defined Benefit Plan, Amount to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Next Fiscal Year [Abstract]
Pension settlement expense
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements
Pension settlement expense
2016
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three
Projected benefit obligation at the beginning of the period
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation
Projected benefit obligation at the end of the period
Assumed health care cost trend rates
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]
Liabilities recognized
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet
Amortization of prior service credit
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Change in projected benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Nonunion Defined Benefit Pension, Supplemental Benefit, and Postretirement Health Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used in Calculations [Abstract]
Effect of one-percentage-point decrease on total of service and interest cost components
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components
Acceptable Range, minimum (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum
PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
Actuarial loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)
2015
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two
Discount rate (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate
Unrecognized net actuarial loss
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax
2018
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five
Expected return on plan assets (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets
Amortization of net actuarial loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)
Acceptable Range, maximum (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate
Discount rate (as a percent)
Unrecognized net periodic benefit costs
Total
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Effect of one-percentage-point decrease on postretirement benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
2017
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four
Target allocations, acceptable ranges, and actual asset allocations
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Total
Defined Benefit Plan, Amount to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Next Fiscal Year
Unrecognized prior service credit
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Unrecognized net actuarial loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss)
2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months
Pension and other postretirement benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets
Pre-tax amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive loss that have not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract]
Rate of compensation increase (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase
Maximum percentage of participants compensation that is eligible for 50% matching contribution
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay
Pension settlement distributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid
Benefits paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Accumulated benefit obligation
Rate of compensation increase (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase
Target allocation (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations
2018-2022
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
Changes in plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Effect of one-percentage-point increase on total of service and interest cost components
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components
Estimated future benefit payments
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Effect of one-percentage-point increase on postretirement benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Funded status
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan
Curtailment
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Fair value of plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period
Fair value of plan assets at end of period
Employer contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
Effects of one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]
Curtailment gain recognized in earnings
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments
Net periodic benefit cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year
Settlement loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate
Components of net periodic benefit cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Expense for employer contribution to defined contribution plan
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine nonunion benefit obligations
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain]
Weighted-Average Allocation (as a percent)
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Defined Contribution Plans
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Year that the rate reaches the cost trend assumed rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate
Postretirement Health Benefit Plan
Defined Benefit Postretirement Health Coverage [Member]
Unrecognized prior service credit
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Communications and utilities
Direct Communications and Utilities Costs
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION.
Dividends declared on common stock
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Dividend Amount
Dividends Declared [Table Text Block]
Summary of dividends declared
Dividends on Common Stock
Dividends, Common Stock [Abstract]
Federal
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Basic
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Diluted
Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract]
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Earnings Per Share
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Earnings (loss) per common share (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Basic (in dollars per share)
Earnings (loss) per common share (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Diluted (in dollars per share)
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Earnings (loss) per common share
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE
Effective tax rate (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Total income tax expense (benefit) (as a percent)
Reconciliation between the effective income tax rate, as computed on loss before income taxes, and the statutory federal income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
State income taxes (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent
Effect of permanent differences and other (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent
Reversal of valuation allowance on foreign tax credit carryovers (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent
Net reversal in valuation allowances (as a percent)
Income tax expense (benefit) at the statutory federal rate (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
Statutory federal tax rate (as a percent)
Portion of effective tax benefit rate related to reduced state deferred tax liabilities reflecting enactment of lower tax rates in some states (as a percent)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Percent
Stock Options
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Tax benefit of options exercised and dividends on share-based payment awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options
Tax benefit of options exercised
Unrecognized compensation cost
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Weighted-average period of recognition of unrecognized compensation cost
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Cash proceeds of options exercised
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Environmental Remediation Contingency [Axis]
Environmental Matters
Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Environmental Remediation Contingency [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Fair value disclosure
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Recurring basis
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Schedule of financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Fair value disclosure
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Schedule of financial instruments and the methods and assumptions used in estimating fair value disclosures
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Federal income tax provision (benefit)
Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Weighted Average Amortization Period
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Cost
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Accumulated Amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Net Value
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-lived intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Foreign income tax provision
Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Foreign
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Gain on sale of property and equipment
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Balance at the beginning of the period
Goodwill
Balance at the end of the period
Goodwill
GOODWILL
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
GOODWILL
Goodwill [Line Items]
Purchase accounting adjustments
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments
Goodwill by reportable operating segment
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill acquired
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Impairment Assessment of Long-Lived Assets
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
INCOME TAXES
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
INCOME TAXES
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Total income tax expense (benefit)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Income tax provision (benefit)
Tax benefit
INCOME TAX PROVISION (BENEFIT)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount
Decrease in valuation allowances
Net reversal in valuation allowances
Increase in valuation allowances
Income tax examination
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Dividends received deduction
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Dividends, Amount
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income taxes paid before income tax refunds
Income Taxes Paid
Federal, state, and foreign income taxes paid
Nondeductible expenses
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount
Income tax expense (benefit) at the statutory federal rate
Income tax benefit at the statutory federal rate
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
State income taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount
Effect of permanent differences and other
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount
Income taxes
Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Other assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets
Receivables
Increase (Decrease) in Receivables
Prepaid expenses
Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis]
Net Value
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
Receivables, net of related allowances, for workers' compensation excess claims paid by the Company but insured by the excess insurers
Insurance Settlements Receivable
Total intangible assets
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
Net Value
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net
Interest expense and other related financing costs
Interest and Debt Expense
Capitalized interest
Interest Paid, Capitalized
Interest paid
Interest Paid [Abstract]
Interest paid, net of capitalized interest
Interest Paid, Net
Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use, Including Web Site Development Costs
Internal Use Software, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Investments [Domain]
Investment Type Categorization [Domain]
Interest and dividend income
Investment Income, Interest and Dividend
Investment Type [Axis]
Investment Type [Axis]
Outstanding letters of credit
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Salaries, wages, and benefits
Labor and Related Expense
Land and structures
Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member]
Land and structures (terminals)
Rental expense
Operating Leases, Rent Expense
Leases
Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Leasehold improvements
Leasehold Improvements, Gross
Leases, Operating [Abstract]
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS, ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS, AND OTHER EVENTS
Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block]
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
Liabilities, Current
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Maximum borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Amount outstanding
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding
Remaining borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity
Long-term debt, less current portion
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
LONG-TERM DEBT, less current portion
Less current portion
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Current portion of long-term debt
Insurance-Related Assessments
Loss Contingency, Insurance-related Assessment [Abstract]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss contingencies
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Liabilities for state guaranty fund assessments and other insurance-related assessments
Loss Contingency, Undiscounted Amount of Insurance-related Assessment Liability
Major Customers [Axis]
Customer [Axis]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Money market funds
Money Market Funds [Member]
Mortgage-backed instruments
Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Changes in valuation and qualifying accounts and reserves
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
All Other Pension Plans in Aggregate
Multiemployer Plan, Individually Insignificant Multiemployer Plans [Member]
Percentage increase in contribution rate for time worked related to benefit costs
Multiemployer Plans, Contribution Rate Increase (Decrease)
Multiemployer Plans
Multiemployer Plans [Abstract]
Employees covered under ABF NMFA (as a percent)
Multiemployer Plans, Collective-Bargaining Arrangement, Percentage of Employer's Participants
Multiemployer Plan Name [Domain]
Multiemployer Plan Name [Domain]
Total contributions to multiemployer plans
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions
Multiemployer Plan Name [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan Name [Axis]
Employee Benefit Plans
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer pension plans
Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Municipal debt securities
Municipal Bonds [Member]
Name of Major Customer [Domain]
Customer [Domain]
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations
Adjusted net income (loss)
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations
Adjusted net income (loss)
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted
Diluted, numerator:
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted [Abstract]
Basic, numerator:
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract]
NET CASH USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Net income
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
NET INCOME (LOSS)
NET INCOME (LOSS)
Net income (loss)
New accounting pronouncement
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
NONCASH INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract]
Other income (expense), net
Nonoperating Income (Expense)
TOTAL OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Notes payable
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Number of employees
Number of Employees, Total [Member]
Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)
Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Future minimum rental commitments for all noncancelable operating leases
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2017
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
2018
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Valuation allowance related to net operating loss carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Valuation Allowance
2016
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
2014
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)
Operating Income (Loss)
Operating income (loss)
Operating income
Operating Segments
Operating Segments [Member]
2015
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Operating Leases and Commitments
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Total
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Operating loss carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Insurance
Operating Insurance and Claims Costs, Production
ORGANIZATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION
ORGANIZATION AND DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Net actuarial loss
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, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Impact on unrecognized net actuarial gain (loss)
Amortization of net actuarial loss
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax
Amortization of prior service credit
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, Net of Tax
Prior service credit
Amortization of unrecognized net periodic benefit costs, net of tax of: (2014 - Three-month period $261, Six-month period $467; 2013 - Three- month period $1,115, Six-month period $2,229)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Amortization of unrecognized net periodic benefit costs, tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax
Other
Other Assets, Current
Other
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Net actuarial gain (loss), tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax
Net actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of: (2014 - Three-month period $116, Six-month period $3,488; 2013 - Three-month period $6,617, Six-month period $6,617)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Change in the unrecognized net actuarial gain (loss), after tax
Other accounts receivable, less allowances (2014 - $1,661; 2013 - $1,422)
Other Receivables, Net, Current
Other
Other Expenses
Other, net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
OTHER LIABILITIES
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Service, office, and other equipment
Equipment and Other
Other Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Other
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Change in foreign currency translation, tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Change in foreign currency translation, net of tax of: (2014 - Three-month period $65, Six-month period $41; 2013 - Three-month period $76, Six-month period $87)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), net of tax
Effect of unvested restricted stock unit awards
Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings
Acquisition of noncontrolling interest
Payments for Repurchase of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES, GROSS
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets
Net cash consideration
Cash purchase price, net of cash acquired
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Payment of common stock dividends
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Purchases of property, plant and equipment, net of financings
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Deferred financing costs
Payments of Financing Costs
Capitalization of internally developed software
Payments to Develop Software
Purchases of short-term investments
Payments to Acquire Short-term Investments
Current liabilities (included in accrued expenses)
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities
Nonunion Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT LIABILITIES
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Noncurrent liabilities (included in pension and postretirement liabilities)
PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Nonunion Defined Benefit Pension, Supplemental Benefit, and Postretirement Health Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Prepaid expenses
Prepaid Expense, Current
OTHER ASSETS
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Noncurrent
Equipment financed during the period under notes payable
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Equipment financed during the period under notes payable or capital lease agreements
Net change in bank overdraft
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Bank Overdrafts
Borrowings under credit facilities
Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt
Income tax refunds
Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds
Refund of federal and state income taxes that were paid in prior years, primarily from loss carrybacks
Proceeds from sale of short-term investments
Proceeds from Sale of Short-term Investments
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options
Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income (loss)
Amortization period
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Depreciation/amortization period
TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, GROSS
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, GROSS
Property, Plant and Equipment, Including Repairs and Maintenance
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross [Abstract]
Provision for losses on accounts receivable
Provision for Doubtful Accounts
QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Unrecognized net periodic benefit costs:
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Summary of the significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss by component
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax
Payments on long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Amounts collateralized by restricted funds
Restricted Cash and Investments, Current
Restricted cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments
Restricted cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments
Restricted Stock Units
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings [Member]
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
REVENUES
Revenues [Abstract]
Revolving commitments
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Outstanding
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Revenues
Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member]
Revenues
Sales Revenue, Services, Net
REVENUES
Forecast
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Estimated
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table]
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Schedule of summarized fair values of acquired assets and liabilities at the acquisition date
Summary of changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, by component
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table]
Summary of the Company's stock option award program
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Summary of the components of net periodic benefit cost
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Summary of the Company's restricted stock unit award program
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]
Pre-tax amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive loss that have not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost
Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Not yet Recognized [Table Text Block]
Fair value of the nonunion defined benefit pension plan assets, by major asset category and fair value hierarchy level
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of significant components of the provision or benefit for income taxes
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of long-term debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Schedule of the assumed health care cost trend rates for the postretirement health benefit plan
Schedule of reconciliation between the effective income tax rate, as computed (loss) before income taxes, and the statutory federal income tax rate
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of financial instruments disclosed at fair value
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of accrued expenses
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Pre-tax amounts, which are reported within accumulated other comprehensive loss, expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost in the next fiscal year
Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year [Table Text Block]
Schedule of amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets related to nonunion benefit plans
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]
Schedule of future minimum rental commitments for all noncancelable operating leases
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]
Schedule of unaudited quarterly financial information
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Effects of one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates on the postretirement health benefit plan
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Schedule of computation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Schedule of ABF Freight's participation in multiemployer pension plans
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table Text Block]
Summary of additional activity related to Company's stock option program
Schedule of Cash Proceeds Received from Share-based Payment Awards [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Components of accumulated other comprehensive loss
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Schedule of estimated future benefit payments for nonunion benefit plans
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Schedule of goodwill by reportable operating segment
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of reportable operating segment information
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Term Loan
Secured Debt [Member]
Secured term loan
FINANCIAL STATEMENT OPERATING SEGMENT DATA AND OPERATING RATIOS
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment reporting information
Segment [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
OPERATING SEGMENT DATA
Segment Information
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
OPERATING SEGMENT DATA
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Workers' compensation, third-party casualty, and loss and damage claims reserves
Self Insurance Reserve, Current
Other disclosure
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Additional General Disclosures [Abstract]
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Award activity
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Granted (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Forfeited (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Vested (in shares)
Share-based compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Vesting period
Granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation
Forfeited (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Exercised (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Fair value of stock vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value
Forfeited (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Additional activity related to Company's stock option program
Intrinsic value of options exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value
Number of shares approved
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized
Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share)
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)
Intrinsic Value, Outstanding (in dollars)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Stock options activity
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Award Type [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Shares, Issued
Balances (in shares)
Balances (in shares)
Short-term investments
Short-term Investments
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Site Contingency [Table]
Site Contingency [Line Items]
Environmental Matters
Capitalized software costs
Software Development [Member]
Software
Software and Software Development Costs [Member]
Purchased software applications
State income tax provision (benefit)
State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
State
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Statement
Statement [Line Items]
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Business Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Period Increase (Decrease)
Amount of stock repurchases authorized
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Stock awards
Stock Compensation Plan [Member]
Issuance of common stock under share-based compensation plans (in shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Exercised (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
SARs
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]
Issuance of common stock under share-based compensation plans
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Amount of shares available for repurchase under the current buyback program
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease)
Balances
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Balances
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Comprehensive Income or Loss
Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block]
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent events
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Supplemental Benefit Plan
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Surety bonds
Surety Bond [Member]
Valuation allowance related tax credit carryforwards
Tax Credit Carryforward, Valuation Allowance
Title of Individual [Axis]
Title of Individual [Axis]
Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain]
Relationship to Entity [Domain]
Trade name
Trade Names [Member]
Treasury stock, at cost, shares
Treasury Stock, Shares
Treasury Stock
Treasury Stock [Member]
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,677,932 shares
Treasury Stock, Value
Type of Deferred Compensation, All Types [Domain]
Type of Deferred Compensation, All Types [Domain]
Unionized employees concentration risk
Unionized Employees Concentration Risk [Member]
Reserve for uncertain tax positions
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Agency securities
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Treasury instruments
US Treasury Securities [Member]
Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis]
Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Additions, Charged to Costs and Expenses
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense
Balance at Beginning of Period
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Balance at End of Period
Allowance for deferred tax assets
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Deductions
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
Additions, Charged to Other Accounts
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts
Decrease in valuation allowances
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount
Reversal of deferred tax valuation allowances excluded from pro forma information
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Variable rate demand notes
Variable Rate Demand Obligation [Member]
Revenue Equipment
Vehicles [Member]
Revenue equipment
Basic, denominator:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract]
Effect of dilutive securities
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment
Diluted, denominator:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING
Weighted-average shares
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Basic (in shares)
Adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Diluted (in shares)