Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements of Pitney Bowes Inc. (we, us, our, or the company) and its wholly owned subsidiaries have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. As a result of the acquisition of Borderfree, Inc. (Borderfree) in June 2015 and the sale of our Marketing Services business, Imagitas, in May 2015 (see Note 3), we realigned our segment reporting to conform to the way we now manage our segments and recast prior period amounts to conform to the current year presentation (see Note 2). Our business continues to be organized around three distinct sets of solutions – Small and Medium Business (SMB) Solutions, Enterprise Business Solutions and Digital Commerce Solutions (DCS). Under the new segment reporting, there were no changes to SMB Solutions or Enterprise Business Solutions; however, within DCS, our Software Solutions operations and Global Ecommerce operations are reported as reportable segments. The Other segment is comprised of Imagitas. Imagitas was previously reported in DCS.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and accompanying disclosures, including the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. These estimates and assumptions are based on management's best knowledge of current events, historical experience and other information available when the financial statements are prepared. These estimates include, but are not limited to, revenue recognition for multiple element arrangements, the allocation of purchase price to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, goodwill and intangible asset impairment review, allowance for doubtful accounts and credit losses, residual values of leased assets, useful lives of long-lived and intangible assets, restructuring costs, pensions and other postretirement costs, income tax reserves, deferred tax asset valuation allowance, stock-based compensation expense and loss contingencies. Actual results could differ from those estimates and assumptions.
Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments	Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments Cash equivalents include liquid investments with maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase. Short-term investments include investments with a maturity of greater than three months but less than one year from the reporting date.
Investment Securities	Investment Securities Investment securities that management has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity and are carried at amortized cost. Investment securities not classified as held-to-maturity are classified as available-for-sale and recorded at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income, net of tax. Purchase premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the effective interest method over the term of the security. Gains and losses on the sale of available-for-sale securities are recorded on the trade date and are determined using the specific identification method. Investment securities are recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and other assets depending on the investment's maturity.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts We estimate the probable losses on accounts receivable and provide an allowance for doubtful accounts. The estimate of probable losses is based on historical loss experience, aging of receivables, adverse situations that may affect a client's ability to pay and prevailing economic conditions. We continually evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for doubtful accounts and make adjustments as necessary. The assumptions used in determining an estimate of probable losses are inherently subjective and actual results may differ significantly from estimated reserves. Accounts receivable are generally due within 30 days after the invoice date. Accounts deemed uncollectible are written off against the allowance after all collection efforts have been exhausted and management deems the account to be uncollectible. We believe that our accounts receivable credit risk is low because of the geographic and industry diversification of our clients and small account balances for most of our clients.
Finance Receivables and Allowance for Credit Losses	Finance Receivables and Allowance for Credit Losses Finance receivables are composed of sales-type lease receivables and unsecured revolving loan receivables. We estimate the probable losses and provide an allowance for credit losses. The estimate of probable losses is based on historical loss experience, the nature and volume of our portfolios, adverse situations that may affect a client's ability to pay, prevailing economic conditions and our ability to manage the collateral. We continually evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses and make adjustments as necessary. The assumptions used in determining an estimate of credit losses are inherently subjective and actual results may differ significantly from estimated reserves. We establish credit approval limits based on the credit quality of the client and the type of equipment financed. Our policy is to discontinue revenue recognition for lease receivables that are more than 120 days past due and for unsecured loan receivables that are more than 90 days past due. We resume revenue recognition when the client's payments reduce the account aging to less than 60 days past due. Finance receivables deemed uncollectible are written off against the allowance after all collection efforts have been exhausted and management deems the account to be uncollectible. We believe that our finance receivable credit risk is low because of the geographic and industry diversification of our clients and small account balances for most of our clients.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on the last-in, first-out (LIFO) basis for most U.S. inventories and on the first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis for most non-U.S. inventories.
Fixed Assets	Fixed Assets Property, plant and equipment and rental equipment are stated at cost and depreciated principally using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives, which are up to 50 years for buildings, three to 15 years for machinery and equipment, four to six years for rental equipment and three to five years for computer equipment. Major improvements which add to productive capacity or extend the life of an asset are capitalized while repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life or the remaining lease term. Fully depreciated assets are retained in fixed assets and accumulated depreciation until they are removed from service. We capitalize certain costs of software developed for internal use. Capitalized costs include purchased materials and services, payroll and personnel-related costs and interest. The cost of internally developed software is amortized on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life, principally three to 10 years
Intangible assets	Intangible assets Finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives, principally three to 15 years, using either the straight-line method or an accelerated attrition method.
Research and Development Costs	Research and Development Costs Research and product development costs include engineering costs related to research and product development activities and are expensed as incurred.
Impairment Review for Long-lived and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	Impairment Review for Long-lived and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Long-lived assets and finite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be fully recoverable. The estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset is compared to the asset's carrying value. If the sum of the undiscounted cash flows is less than the asset's carrying value, an impairment charge is recorded for an amount by which the asset's carrying value exceeds its fair value. The fair value of the impaired asset is determined using probability weighted expected cash flow estimates, quoted market prices when available and appraisals, as appropriate. We derive cash flow estimates from our long-term business plans and historical experience.
Impairment Review for Goodwill	Impairment Review for Goodwill Goodwill is tested annually for impairment at the reporting unit level during the fourth quarter or sooner when circumstances indicate an impairment may exist. A reporting unit is the operating segment, or a business that is one level below that operating segment. Reporting units are aggregated as a single reporting unit if they have similar economic characteristics. Goodwill is tested for impairment using a two-step approach. In the first step, the fair value of each reporting unit is determined and compared to the reporting unit's carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment, if any. In the second step, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit as if it had been acquired in a business combination and the purchase price was equivalent to the fair value of the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to its assets and liabilities is referred to as the implied fair value of goodwill. The implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill is then compared to the actual carrying value of goodwill. If the implied fair value of goodwill is less than the carrying value of goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference. The fair value of a reporting unit is determined based on a combination of various techniques, including the present value of future cash flows, multiples of competitors and multiples from sales of like businesses.
Retirement Plans	Retirement Plans Net periodic benefit cost includes current service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets and the amortization of actuarial gains and losses. Actuarial gains and losses arise from actual experiences that differ from previous assumptions as well as changes in assumptions including expected return on plan assets, discount rates used to measure pension and other postretirement obligations and life expectancy. The expected return on assets is measured using the market-related value of assets, which is a calculated value that recognizes changes in the fair value of plan assets over five years. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized in other comprehensive income, net of tax, and amortized to benefit cost over the life expectancy of inactive plan participants. The funded status of pension and other postretirement benefit plans is recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Stock-based Compensation	Stock-based Compensation We measure compensation expense for stock-based awards based on the estimated fair value of the awards expected to vest (net of estimated forfeitures) and recognize the expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. The fair value of stock awards is estimated using a Black-Scholes valuation model or a Monte Carlo simulation model. These models require assumptions be made regarding the expected stock price volatility, risk-free interest rate, life of the award and dividend yield. The expected stock price volatility is based on historical price changes of our stock. The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. Treasuries with a term equal to the expected life of the stock award. The expected life of the award and expected dividend yield are based on historical experience. We believe that the valuation techniques and underlying assumptions are appropriate in estimating the fair value of stock awards.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition We derive revenue from multiple sources including sales, rentals, financing and services. Certain transactions are consummated at the same time and can therefore generate revenue from multiple sources. The most common form of these transactions involves a sale or non-cancelable lease of equipment, a meter rental and an equipment maintenance agreement. In these multiple element arrangements, revenue is allocated to each of the elements based on relative "selling prices" and the selling price for each of the elements is determined based on vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE). We establish VSOE of selling prices for our products and services based on the prices charged for each element when sold separately in standalone transactions. The allocation of relative selling price to the various elements impacts the timing of revenue recognition, but does not change the total revenue recognized. Revenue is allocated to the meter rental and equipment maintenance agreement elements using their respective selling prices charged in standalone and renewal transactions. For a sale transaction, revenue is allocated to the equipment based on a range of selling prices in standalone transactions. For a lease transaction, revenue is allocated to the equipment based on the present value of the remaining minimum lease payments. The amount allocated to equipment is compared to the range of selling prices in standalone transactions during the period to ensure the allocated equipment amount approximates average selling prices. More specifically, revenue related to our offerings is recognized as follows: Sales Revenue Sales of Equipment We sell equipment directly to our customers and to distributors (re-sellers) throughout the world. We recognize revenue from these sales when the risks and rewards of ownership transfer to the client, which is generally upon shipment or acceptance by the customer. We recognize revenue from the sale of equipment under sales-type leases as equipment sales revenue at the inception of the lease. We do not typically offer any rights of return or stock balancing rights. Sales revenue from customized equipment, mail creation equipment and shipping products is generally recognized when installed. Sales of Supplies Revenue related to supplies is generally recognized upon delivery. Standalone Software Sales and Integration Services We also have multiple element arrangements containing only software and software related elements. Software related elements may include maintenance and support services, data subscriptions, training and integration services. Under these multiple element arrangements, we allocate revenue based on VSOE for software related elements and use the residual method to determine the amount of software licenses revenue. Under the residual method, the fair-value of the undelivered elements is deferred and the remaining portion of the arrangement consideration is allocated to the delivered elements and recognized as revenue. The majority of our software license arrangements are bundled with maintenance and support services and we establish VSOE of fair value using a bell-shaped curve analysis for maintenance and support services renewal rates. If we cannot obtain VSOE for any undelivered software element, revenue is deferred until all deliverables have been delivered or until VSOE can be determined for any remaining undelivered software elements. We recognize revenue from standalone software licenses upon delivery of the product when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the fee is fixed and determinable and collectability is probable. For software licenses that are included in a lease contract, we recognize revenue upon shipment of the software unless the lease contract specifies that the license expires at the end of the lease or the price of the software is deemed not fixed or determinable based on historical evidence of similar software leases. In these instances, revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease contract. We recognize revenue from software requiring integration services at the point of customer acceptance. We recognize revenue related to off-the-shelf perpetual software licenses generally upon shipment. Rentals Revenue We rent equipment, primarily postage meters and mailing equipment, under short-term rental agreements. Rentals revenue includes revenue from the subscription for digital meter services. We may invoice in advance for postage meter rentals according to the terms of the agreement. We initially defer these advanced billings and recognize rentals revenue on a straight-line basis over the invoice period. Revenues generated from financing clients for the continued use of equipment subsequent to the expiration of the original lease are recognized as rentals revenue. We capitalize certain initial direct costs incurred in consummating a rental transaction and recognize these costs over the expected term of the agreement. Amortization of initial direct costs was $8 million, $10 million and $11 million in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Initial direct costs included in rental property and equipment, net in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $20 million and $22 million, respectively. Financing Revenue We provide lease financing for our products primarily through sales-type leases. We also provide revolving lines of credit to our clients for the purchase of postage and supplies. We believe that our sales-type lease portfolio contains only normal collection risk. Accordingly, we record the fair value of equipment as sales revenue, the cost of equipment as cost of sales and the minimum lease payments plus the estimated residual value as finance receivables. The difference between the finance receivable and the equipment fair value is recorded as unearned income and is amortized as income over the lease term using the interest method. Equipment residual values are determined at inception of the lease using estimates of equipment fair value at the end of the lease term. Estimates of future equipment fair value are based primarily on historical experience. We also consider forecasted supply and demand for various products, product retirement and launch plans, regulatory changes, remanufacturing strategies, used equipment markets, if any, competition and technological changes. We evaluate residual values on an annual basis or sooner if circumstances warrant. Declines in estimated residual values considered "other-than-temporary" are recognized immediately. Estimated increases in future residual values are not recognized until the equipment is remarketed. Support Services Revenue We provide support services for our equipment primarily through maintenance contracts. Revenue related to these agreements is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreement. Business Services Revenue Business services revenue includes revenue from presort mail services, global ecommerce solutions and shipping solutions. Prior to our divestiture of Imagitas in May 2015, business services revenue also included revenues from direct marketing services. Revenue for these services were recognized as the services were provided. We also evaluate whether it is appropriate to record revenue on a gross basis when we are acting as a principal in the transaction or net of costs when we are acting as an agent between the client and the vendor. We consider several factors in determining whether we are acting as principal or agent such as whether we are the primary obligor to the client, have control over the pricing and have credit risk.
Shipping and Handling	Shipping and Handling Shipping and handling costs are recognized as incurred and recorded in cost of revenues.
Deferred Marketing Costs	Deferred Marketing Costs We capitalize certain costs associated with the acquisition of new customers and recognize these costs over the expected revenue stream of eight years. Amortization of deferred marketing costs was $18 million, $23 million and $27 million in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Deferred marketing costs included in other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $43 million and $49 million, respectively. We review individual marketing programs for impairment on a quarterly basis or as circumstances warrant.
Restructuring Charges	Restructuring Charges Costs associated with restructuring actions and other exit or disposal activities include employee severance and other employee separation costs and lease termination costs. These costs are recognized when a liability has been incurred, which is generally upon communication to the affected employees or exit from a leased facility, and the amount to be paid is both probable and reasonably estimable. The rates used in determining severance accruals are based on company policy, historical experience and negotiated settlements.
Derivative Instruments	Derivative Instruments In the normal course of business, we are exposed to the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. We limit these risks by following established risk management policies and procedures, including the use of derivatives. We use derivative instruments to limit the effects of currency exchange rate fluctuations on financial results and manage the related cost of debt. We do not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. We record our derivative instruments at fair value and the accounting for changes in fair value depends on the intended use of the derivative, the resulting designation and the effectiveness of the instrument in offsetting the risk exposure it is designed to hedge. To qualify as a hedge, a derivative must be highly effective in offsetting the risk designated for hedging purposes. The hedge relationship must be formally documented at inception, detailing the particular risk management objective and strategy for the hedge. The effectiveness of the hedge relationship is evaluated on a retrospective and prospective basis. The use of derivative instruments exposes us to counterparty credit risk. To mitigate such risks, we enter into contracts with only those financial institutions that meet stringent credit requirements. We regularly review our credit exposure balances as well as the creditworthiness of our counterparties. We have not seen a material change in the creditworthiness of those banks acting as derivative counterparties.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date of such change. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will not be realized. In assessing whether a valuation allowance is necessary, and the amount of such allowance, we consider all available evidence for each jurisdiction including past operating results, estimates of future taxable income and the feasibility of ongoing tax planning strategies. As new information becomes available that would alter our determination as to the amount of deferred tax assets that will ultimately be realized, we adjust the valuation allowance with a corresponding impact to income tax expense in the period in which such determination is made.
Earnings per Share	Earnings per Share Basic earnings per share is based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings per share also includes the dilutive effect of stock awards, preference stock, preferred stock and stock purchase plans.
Translation of Non-U.S. Currency Amounts	Translation of Non-U.S. Currency Amounts In general, the functional currency of our foreign operations is the local currency. Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries operating outside the U.S. are translated at rates in effect at the end of the period and revenue and expenses are translated at average monthly rates during the period. Net deferred translation gains and losses are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income.
Loss Contingencies	Loss Contingencies In the ordinary course of business, we are routinely defendants in, or party to, a number of pending and threatened legal actions. On a quarterly basis, we review the status of each significant matter and assess the potential financial exposure. If the potential loss from any claim or legal action is considered probable and can be reasonably estimated, we establish a liability for the estimated loss. The assessment of the ultimate outcome of each claim or legal action and the determination of the potential financial exposure requires significant judgment. Estimates of potential liabilities for claims or legal actions are based only on information that is available at that time. As additional information becomes available, we may revise our estimates, and these revisions could have a material impact on our results of operations and financial position. Legal fees are expensed as incurred.
Reclassification	Reclassification In 2015, we determined that certain investments were classified as cash and cash equivalents. Accordingly, the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 2014 has been revised to reduce cash and cash equivalents by $25 million, and increase short-term investments by $17 million and other assets by $8 million. Additionally, the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 have also been revised to reduce cash and cash equivalents and increase short-term investments and other assets for certain investment accounts. During 2015, we determined that certain customer deposits at December 31, 2014 within current liabilities should have been classified as either a current asset or a non-current liability. Accordingly, the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2014 has been revised by increasing accounts receivable by $23 million, accounts payable and accrued liabilities by $14 million and other non-current liabilities by $9 million.
New Accounting Pronouncements	New Accounting Pronouncements In November 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standard Update (ASU) 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes, which requires all deferred tax assets and liabilities to be presented as noncurrent in the balance sheet. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and can be applied either prospectively or retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We have elected to retrospectively adopt this ASU effective December 31, 2015. Accordingly, the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2014 has been revised by reducing current income tax assets by $12 million and current income tax liabilities by $60 million and increasing noncurrent income taxes by $2 million and deferred taxes on income by $50 million. In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-16, Business Combinations - Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments, which eliminates the requirement to restate prior period financial statements for measurement period adjustments. The new guidance requires that the cumulative impact of a measurement period adjustment (including the impact on prior periods) be recognized in the reporting period in which the adjustment is identified. Consistent with existing guidance, the new guidance requires an acquirer to disclose the nature and amount of measurement period adjustments. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and requires that measurement period adjustments be applied prospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We will adopt this standard in the first quarter of 2016 and currently do not expect the adoption of this standard will have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements or disclosures. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Inventory - Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory, which requires inventory to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value (estimated selling price less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation). Prior to this guidance, inventory was measured at the lower of cost or market (where market was defined as replacement cost, with a ceiling of net realizable value and a floor of net realizable value of inventory, less a normal profit margin). Inventory measured using LIFO is not impacted by the new guidance. The ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods therein. Early adoption is permitted. We do not believe this standard will have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements or disclosures. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software, Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement, which provides guidance on fees paid by an entity in a cloud computing arrangement and whether an arrangement includes a license to the underlying software. This standard is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We will adopt this standard in the first quarter of 2016 and the adoption of this standard will not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements or disclosures. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, which requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the associated debt liability. This standard is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We will adopt this standard in the first quarter of 2016. Upon adoption, debt issuance costs currently recorded as other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets will be reclassified as a reduction in long-term debt. At December 31, 2015, debt issuance costs included in other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet was $18 million. In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-01, Income Statement - Extraordinary and Unusual Items, which removes the concept of extraordinary items, thereby eliminating the need for companies to assess transactions for extraordinary treatment. The standard retained the presentation and disclosure requirements for items that are unusual in nature and/or infrequent in occurrence. The standard is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We will adopt this standard in the first quarter of 2016 and the adoption of this standard will not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements or disclosures. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The standard requires companies to recognize revenue for the transfer of goods and services to customers in amounts that reflect the consideration the company expects to receive in exchange for those goods and services. The standard will also result in enhanced disclosures about revenue. In July 2015, the FASB approved a one-year deferral of the effective date. This standard is now effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The standard can be adopted either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment. Companies are permitted to adopt the standard as early as the original public entity effective date (fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2016). Early adoption prior to that date is prohibited. We are currently assessing the impact this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.