Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 52,013	$ 37,674
Trade receivables (less allowances of $7,253 and $6,868, respectively)	751,303	764,130
Merchandise inventory	429,694	416,753
Other current assets	23,871	25,442
Total Current Assets	1,256,881	1,243,999
Property, at cost
Land	66,809	65,821
Buildings	395,934	393,399
Furniture and fixtures	221,202	212,650
Software	76,906	76,906
Capital leases	11,779	11,463
Total Property, at cost	772,630	760,239
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization	(409,135)	(402,233)
Net Property	363,495	358,006
Other Non-current Assets	79,300	83,932
Total Assets	1,699,676	1,685,937
LIABILITIES
Short-term borrowings	52,530	71,116
Current portion of long-term debt	9,882	10,005
Trade accounts payable	602,528	555,868
Accrued payroll and benefit costs	92,035	109,250
Other accrued taxes	15,555	11,748
Other current liabilities	60,459	61,315
Total Current Liabilities	832,989	819,302
Postretirement Benefits Liability	77,177	77,036
Pension Liability	163,122	167,223
Long-term Debt	1,670	1,990
Other Non-current Liabilities	15,555	20,170
Total Liabilities	1,090,513	1,085,721
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Outstanding Common Stock	312,897	310,008
Advance Payments on Subscriptions to Common Stock	405	0
Retained Earnings	457,016	453,770
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	(164,309)	(166,814)
Total Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders' Equity	606,009	596,964
Noncontrolling Interests	3,154	3,252
Total Shareholders' Equity	609,163	600,216
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity	$ 1,699,676	$ 1,685,937