Principal Accounting Policies Foreign Exchange Translation (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Foreign Exchange Translation [Abstract]

Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]

Foreign Currency Translation

Adjustments resulting from translating foreign functional currency financial statements into U.S. dollars are included in the foreign currency translation adjustment in the statements of consolidated comprehensive income (loss). Transaction gains and losses that arise from exchange-rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency are included in the statements of consolidated income within miscellaneous, net. Con-way recognized foreign exchange losses of $6.0 million, $1.4 million and $0.3 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Con-way has determined that advances to certain of its foreign subsidiaries are indefinite in nature. Accordingly, the corresponding foreign currency gains or losses related to these advances are included in the foreign currency translation adjustment in the statements of consolidated comprehensive income (loss).

Recognized foreign exchange loss

$ 6.0

$ 1.4

$ 0.3