Multiclient Seismic Data - Change in Carrying Amount of Multiclient Seismic Data (Detail) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2018 USD ($)
Multiclient Seismic Data [Abstract]
Balance at December 31, 2017	$ 727
Capitalized in period	63
Charged to expense	(151)
Balance at September 30, 2018	$ 639

Capitalized costs directly incurred in acquiring and processing of seismic surveys that are licensed on a nonexclusive basis, net of amortization.

No definition available.

Name:	slb_MulticlientSeismicData
Namespace Prefix:	slb_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant