Description of Business and Basis of Presentation Description of Business and Basis of Presentation (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment - Revenue	$ (5)	$ (13)
Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment - Expense	6	17
Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment		$ 35

The amount of a reclassification adjustment made to prior period to reduce research and development costs and increase cost of software. This reclassification had no impact on total expenses.

No definition available.

Name:	pbi_PriorPeriodReclassificationAdjustmentExpense
Namespace Prefix:	pbi_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration