Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Stock Options Outstanding [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Vesting Term [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Share Based Compensation, Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Vesting Term [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Share Based Compensation, Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Vesting Term [Table Text Block] Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Net periodic benefit cost: Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) [Abstract] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets Amortization of prior net loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Settlement loss Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Settlement and Curtailment Net periodic pension cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive loss (income): Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Net actuarial gains (losses) and other adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Net prior service credit Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Settlement adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), before Tax Amortization of prior net losses Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, before Tax Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income) Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive loss (income) Defined Benefit Plan, Amount Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) and Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax Income tax provision (benefit) related to amounts in other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, Tax Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Number of Fixed Income Funds Investing in Debt Securities Ecured by Royalty Payments [Table] Number of Fixed Income Funds Investing in Debt Securities Ecured by Royalty Payments [Table] Number of Fixed Income Funds Investing in Debt Securities Ecured by Royalty Payments [Table] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Number of Fixed Income Funds Investing in Debt Securities Ecured by Royalty Payments [Line Items] Number of Fixed Income Funds Investing in Debt Securities Ecured by Royalty Payments [Line Items] [Line Items] for Number of Fixed Income Funds Investing in Debt Securities Ecured by Royalty Payments [Table] Number of employees sponsored by defined benefit pension plans Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Employees Covered Number Of Employees Sponsored By Definied Benefit Plans Profit Sharing Bonus Profit Sharing Bonus Profit Sharing Bonus Employer discretionary contribution amount Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Benefit obligation at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Benefits Paid Actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Expenses paid from assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expenses Paid From Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expenses Paid From Assets Plan amendments Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Increase (Decrease) for Plan Amendment Other Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Increase (Decrease) for Other Change Benefit obligation at year end Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss) Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Benefits Paid Expenses paid from assets Other Defined Benefit Plan, Other Increase (Decrease) In Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Other Increase (Decrease) In Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets at year end Funded status at year end Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan Pension Settlement Charge Noncurrent assets Assets for Plan Benefits, Defined Benefit Plan Current liabilities Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Current Noncurrent liabilities Liability, Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Noncurrent Net actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Gain (Loss), before Tax Net prior service credit Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Unrecognized actuarial losses before tax Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax Unrecognized actuarial losses net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax Actuarial loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income and expected to be recognized next year Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization, Next Fiscal Year Expected amortization of prior service credit Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit), Next Fiscal Year Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] 2014 Financing 2014 Financing [Member] 2014 Financing [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Term Loan Term Loan [Member] Term Loan Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Secured Second A&R CDA Secured Second A&R CDA [Member] Secured Second A&R CDA [Member] Unsecured Second A&R CDA Unsecured Second A&R CD [Member] Unsecured Second A&R CD [Member] Lease financing obligations Lease financing obligations [Member] Lease financing obligations [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] ABL Facility 2014 ABL Facility Credit Agreement [Member] 2014 ABL Facility Credit Agreement [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Par value Long-term Debt, Gross Premium/(Discount), Debt Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Debt Issuance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Debt Issuance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Long-term debt Long-term Debt Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Effective interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Par Value, Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Gross, Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Gross, Current Maturities Premium/(Discount), Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net, Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net, Current Maturities Debt Issuance Costs, Current, Net Debt Issuance Costs, Current, Net Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Par value, excluding current maturities Debt Instrument, Face Amount, Excluding Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Face Amount, Excluding Current Maturities Premium/(Discount), Noncurrent Maturities Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net, Noncurrent Maturities Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net, Noncurrent Maturities Long-term debt, less current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Floor Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Floor Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Floor Interest Rate Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Agreement Amendment, July 26, 2017 Credit Agreement Amendment, July 26, 2017 [Member] Credit Agreement Amendment, July 26, 2017 [Member] Leverage Ratios [Abstract] Leverage Ratios [Abstract] December 31, 2017 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Current Quarter Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Current Quarter March 31, 2018 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Two Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Two June 30, 2018 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Three Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Three September 30, 2018 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Four Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Four December 31, 2018 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Five Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Five March 31, 2019 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Six Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Six June 30, 2019 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Seven Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Seven September 30, 2019 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Eight Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Eight December 31, 2019 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Nine Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Nine March 31, 2020 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Ten Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Ten June 30, 2020 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Eleven Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Eleven September 30, 2020 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Twelve Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Twelve December 31, 2020 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Thirteen Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Thirteen March 31, 2021 Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Fourteen Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Fourteen June 30, 2021 and thereafter Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Fifteen Debt Instrument, Covenant, Maximum Total Leverage Ratio, Quarter Fifteen Total Leverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Total Leverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Total Leverage Ratio Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments, Contingencies, and Uncertainties Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] ABO Exceeds Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation, ABO Exceeds Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation, ABO Exceeds Assets Assets Exceed ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation, Assets Exceed ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation, Assets Exceed ABO Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Projected Benefit Obligation ABO Exceeds Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation, ABO Exceeds Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation, ABO Exceeds Assets Assets Exceed ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation, Assets Exceed ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation, Assets Exceed ABO Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Accumulated Benefit Obligation ABO Exceeds Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets, ABO Exceeds Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets, ABO Exceeds Assets Assets Exceed ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets, Assets Exceed ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets, Assets Exceed ABO Fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Fair Value of Plan Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] YRC Freight YRC Freight [Member] YRC Freight [Member] Regional Transportation Regional Transportation [Member] Regional Transportation [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Balance Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Change in foreign currency exchange rates Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Balance Stock Compensation Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Deferred revenue Deferred Tax Liabilities, Tax Deferred Income Intangibles Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Gain on debt redemption Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gain On Debt Redemption Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gain On Debt Redemption State taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, State Taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, State Taxes Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Claims and insurance Deferred Tax Assets, Claims And Insurance Deferred Tax Assets, Claims And Insurance Net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Employee benefit accruals Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Benefits Deferred Tax Asset, Sale Leaseback Transaction Deferred Tax Asset, Sale Leaseback Transaction Deferred Tax Asset, Sale Leaseback Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Net deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Term Loan Restructured Term Loan [Member] Restructured Term Loan [Member] ABL Facility ABL Facility [Member] ABL Facility [Member] Second A&R CDA (b) Series A and B Notes [Member] Series A and B Notes [Member] Lease Financing Obligation Lease Financing Obligation [Member] Lease Financing Obligation [Member] 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total Principal cash obligations Long Term Debt, Principal Cash Obligation, After Year Five Long Term Debt, Principal Cash Obligation, After Year Five Net book value of assets Net Book Value Of Assets Net Book Value Of Assets Earnings (Loss) Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Equities Equity Securities [Member] Private equities Private Equity Funds [Member] Corporate Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Government US Treasury and Government [Member] Interest bearing Interest-bearing Deposits [Member] Fixed income Fixed Income Investments [Member] Equity Funds [Member] Equity Funds [Member] Absolute Return Absolute Return Investments [Member] Absolute Return Investments [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Investments measured at net asset value Defined Benefit Plan, Alternative Investments, Fair Value Of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Alternative Investments, Fair Value Of Plan Assets Unfunded Commitments Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments Investment redemption, notice period Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Investment Redemption, Notice Period Fair value of plan assets Purchases Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Business Combination Sales Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Divestiture Unrealized gain (loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets Level 3 Reconciliation, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss) on Plan Assets Still Held Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net Loss Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax [Abstract] Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax [Abstract] Net actuarial gains (losses) and other adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, after Tax Net prior service credit Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), after Tax Settlement adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), after Tax Amortization of prior net losses Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Changes in foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Reclassification of foreign currency translation gains to net income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to YRC Worldwide Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Debt Securities Debt Securities [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Discount rate, benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Discount rate, benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Expected rate of return on assets, benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets Plan investments actual allocations Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations Plan investments target allocations Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Target Allocation, Percentage Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Alternate Base Rate Alternate Base Rate [Member] Alternate Base Rate [Member] ABL Base Rate ABL Base Rate [Domain] ABL Base Rate [Domain] Term Loan 2014 Term Loan 2014 Term Loan [Member] 2014 Term Loan Letter of Credit Letter of Credit [Member] Other Debt Obligations Other Debt Obligations [Member] Second Amended And Restated Contribution Deferral Agreement Second Amended And Restated Contribution Deferral Agreement [Member] Second Amended And Restated Contribution Deferral Agreement [Member] First Amendment To CDA First Amendment To CDA [Member] First Amendment To CDA [Member] Amendment No. 4 Amendment No. 4 [Member] Amendment No. 4 [Member] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Book Value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Number of credit facilities Debt Instrument, Number Of Credit Facilities Debt Instrument, Number Of Credit Facilities Principal amount issued Debt Instrument, Face Amount Additional payment required Debt Instrument, Amendment, Additional Payment Required Debt Instrument, Amendment, Additional Payment Required Premium prepayment within twelve month of amendment, percent Debt Instrument, Premium Prepayment Within Twelve Month Of Amendment, Percent Debt Instrument, Premium Prepayment Within Twelve Month Of Amendment, Percent Variable rate basis, option two, minimum variable rate basis Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Basis, Option Two, Minimum Variable Rate Basis Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Basis, Option Two, Minimum Variable Rate Basis Right to increase New Term Loan Right to increase New Term Loan Right to increase New Term Loan Annual principal payment Debt Instrument, Annual Principal Payment Unamortized discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Deferred finance costs Debt Issuance Costs, Net Maximum borrowing capacity, uncommitted accordion Line Of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Uncommitted Accordion Line Of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Uncommitted Accordion Letters of credit outstanding, amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Commitment fee percentage Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Contribution rate of subsidiaries to funds Contribution Rate Of Subsidiaries To Funds Contribution Rate Of Subsidiaries To Funds Annual amortization of amount outstanding, percent Debt Instrument, Annual Amortization Of Amount Outstanding, Percent Debt Instrument, Annual Amortization Of Amount Outstanding, Percent Payments to fund CDA Payments To Fund Contribution Deferral Agreement Payments To Fund Contribution Deferral Agreement Unamortized discount (premium), net, noncurrent maturities Total cash and availability Line Of Credit Facility, Total Cash and Availability Line Of Credit Facility, Total Cash and Availability Total able to be drawn Line Of Credit Facility, Total Able to Be Drawn Line Of Credit Facility, Total Able to Be Drawn Collateral line cap, percent Line Of Credit Facility, Collateral Line Cap, Percent Line Of Credit Facility, Collateral Line Cap, Percent Fixed charge coverage ratio Debt Instrument, Covenant, Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Covenant, Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Fair value of long term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2011 Long Term Incentive And Equity Award Plan [Member] 2011 Long Term Incentive And Equity Award Plan [Member] 2011 Long Term Incentive And Equity Award Plan [Member] Second Union Employee Option Plan [Member] Second Union Employee Option Plan [Member] Second Union Employee Option Plan [Member] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Performance Shares [Member] Performance Shares [Member] Stock Options [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted Stock And Share Unit [Member] Restricted Stock And Share Unit [Member] Restricted Stock And Share Unit [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares reserved for issuance Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Common Stock Reserved for Future Issuance Shares authorized Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Exercise price per share Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Expiration period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Contractual Term Unrecognized compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Period of recognition Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Vested in Period, Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Intrinsic Value, Amount Per Share Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Intrinsic Value, Amount Per Share Compensation Cost Share Based Awards Compensation Cost Share Based Awards compensation cost share based awards Fair value of nonvested shares vested and distributed Fair value of nonvested shares vested and distributed Fair value of nonvested shares vested and distributed Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Debt and Financing Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Shareholders' Deficit Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock Compensation Plan Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Anti-dilutive unvested shares, options, and stock units(a) Antidillutive options and shares [Member] Antidillutive options and shares [Member] Anti-dilutive Series B Notes Antidillutive Series B Convertible Note Conversion Shares [Member] Antidillutive Series B Convertible Note Conversion Shares [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Basic and dilutive net income (loss) available to common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Average Common Shares Outstanding - Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Dilutive weighted average shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share - Basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share - Diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Antidilutive shares and options units Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Undiscounted Amounts And Material Changes In Insurance Claims [Table Text Block] Undiscounted Amounts And Material Changes In Insurance Claims [Table Text Block] Undiscounted Amounts And Material Changes In Insurance Claims [Table Text Block] Estimated Cash Payments To Settle Claims [Table Text Block] Estimated Cash Payments To Settle Claims [Table Text Block] Estimated Cash Payments To Settle Claims [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Service Lives for Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Service Lives for Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Service Lives for Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maximum Total Leverage Ratio for Remaining Test Periods [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maximum Total Leverage Ratio for Remaining Test Periods [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maximum Total Leverage Ratio for Remaining Test Periods [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Vesting Terms [Axis] Vesting Terms [Axis] Vesting Terms [Axis] Vesting Terms [Domain] Vesting Terms [Domain] [Domain] for Vesting Terms [Axis] Shares [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Nonvested Forfeited Nonvested Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Nonvested, Weighted AVerage Grant-Date Fair Value Granted Vested Forfeited Nonvested, Weighted AVerage Grant-Date Fair Value Vested but not distributed Restricted stock units vested but common shares not distributed Restricted stock units vested but common shares not distributed Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State income taxes, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Foreign tax rate differential Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Permanent differences Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Permanent Differences, Debt Recapitalizaton Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Permanent Differences, Debt Recapitalizaton Valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Benefit from intraperiod tax allocation under ASC 740 Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Benefit from intraperiod tax allocation under ASC 740 Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Benefit from intraperiod tax allocation under ASC 740 Net change in unrecognized tax benefits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Net Decrease In Unrecognized Tax Benefits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Net Decrease In Unrecognized Tax Benefits Benefit from settlement of litigation & audits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Percent Other, net (primarily prior year return to provision) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Hall Enterprises, Inc. [Member] Hall Enterprises, Inc. [Member] Hall Enterprises, Inc. [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Logistics Planning Services [Domain] Logistics Planning Services [Domain] Logistics Planning Services [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Equity ownership in related party Equity ownership in related party Equity ownership in related party Related Party Costs Related Party Costs Related Party Purchased Transportation Related Party Purchased Transportation Related Party Purchased Transportation Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Other Assets Other Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Previous maximum ownership percentage Previous maximum ownership percentage Previous maximum ownership percentage Preferred stock authorized shares Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Liquidation value per share Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance, common shares Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Debt conversion, shares issued (in shares) Debt Conversion, Converted Instrument, Shares Issued Issuance of equity awards, net Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Ending balance, common shares Net deferred tax liability Income tax receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Current Net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Foreign tax credit carryforwards, subject to expriration Deferred Tax Asset, Foreign Tax Credit Carryforwards Subject to Expiration Deferred Tax Asset, Foreign Tax Credit Carryforwards Subject to Expiration Capital loss carryforward, expiring in 2021 Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration Deferred income tax benefit Deferred Benefit recognized due to intraperiod tax allocation under ASC 740 Deferred Benefit recognized due to intraperiod tax allocation under ASC 740 Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense Interest accrual reversal Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest Accrual Reversed Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest Accrual Reversed Interest accrued net reduction Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued, Period Increase Decrease Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued, Period Increase (Decrease) Total amount of interest accrued for uncertain tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Amount by which unrecognized tax benefits may decrease over the next 12 months Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Performance Incentive Awards Performance Incentive Awards [Member] Performance Incentive Awards [Member] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Management Management [Member] Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Settlement loss Performance and sales incentive expense Performance And Sales Incentive Expense Performance And Sales Incentive Expense Noncash equity-based compensation and employee benefits expense Share-based Compensation Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Revenue Equipment [Member] Revenue Equipment [Member] Revenue Equipment Acquisition of property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Operating lease commitment Operating Lease Commitment Operating Lease Commitment Operating lease term Operating Lease Term Operating Lease Term Minimum annual rentals 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Future minimum payments due Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Restricted amounts held in escrow-current Restricted Amounts Held In Escrow, Current, Fair Value Disclosure Restricted Amounts Held In Escrow, Current, Fair Value Disclosure Restricted amounts held in escrow-long term Restricted Amounts Held In Escrow, Non-current, Fair Value Disclosure Restricted Amounts Held In Escrow, Non-current, Fair Value Disclosure Total assets at fair value Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized tax benefits at January 1 Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increases related to: tax positions taken during a prior period Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Increases related to: tax positions taken during the current period Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decreases related to: lapse of applicable statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Decreases related to: settlements with taxing authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Unrecognized tax benefits at December 31 Operating Revenue Sales Revenue, Services, Net Operating Expenses: Operating Expenses [Abstract] Salaries, wages and employee benefits Labor and Related Expense Fuel, operating expenses and supplies Cost of Services, Direct Materials Purchased transportation Purchased Transportation Costs incurred related to the purchase of services (road and rail) from third-party transportation providers and independent contractors in direct support of shipping and logistics services. Depreciation and amortization Cost of Services, Depreciation and Amortization Other operating expenses Other Cost and Expense, Operating (Gains) losses on property disposals, net Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Operating Income Operating Income (Loss) Nonoperating Expenses: Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Nonoperating expenses, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income (Loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Common Shareholders Average Common Shares Outstanding - Diluted Intangibles Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Shareholders’ Deficit: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Capital Surplus [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Deficit [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Treasury Stock, At Cost [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Series B Notes [Member] Series B Notes [Member] Series B Notes. Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Issuance of equity in exchange for debt and interest (net of transaction costs) Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities, Net of Adjustments Share-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Net loss attributable to YRC Worldwide Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net pension gains (losses) and other adjustments Reclassification of net losses to net income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Pension Settlement Charge Pension Settlement Charge Pension Settlement Charge Changes in foreign currency translation adjustments Ending balance 25% per year for four years 25 Percent Per Year For Four Years [Member] 25 Percent Per Year For Four Years [Member] 100% immediately 100% immediately [Domain] 100% immediately [Domain] 33.3% per year for three years 33.3% per year for three years [Member] 33.3% per year for three years [Member] 100% on February 14, 2020 Vesting 100 Percent On February 14, 2020 [Member] Vesting 100 Percent On February 14, 2020 Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Table] Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Table] Insurance Type and Tier Identifier [Axis] Insurance Type and Tier Identifier [Axis] Type and Tier Identifier [Domain] Type and Tier Identifier [Domain] Workers' Compensation [Member] Workers Compensation [Member] Workers Compensation [Member] Property Damage and Liability Claims [Member] Property Damage And Liability Claims [Member] Property Damage And Liability Claims [Member] Total [Member] Insurance Claims [Member] Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items] Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items] 2018 Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2019 Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due In Two Years Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due In Two Years 2020 Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due In Three Years Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due In Three Years 2021 Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due In Four Years Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due In Four Years 2022 Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due In Five Years Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due In Five Years Thereafter Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due Thereafter Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due Thereafter Total Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments, Due Insurance Claims, Estimated Cash Payments Due Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements [Member] Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Labor Force Concentration Risk [Member] Labor Force Concentration Risk [Member] Multiemployer Plan Name [Axis] Multiemployer Plan Name [Axis] Multiemployer Plan Name [Domain] Multiemployer Plan Name [Domain] Central States, Southeast and Southwest Areas Pension Plan [Member] Central States, Southeast And Southwest Areas Pension Plan [Member] Central States, Southeast And Southwest Areas Pension Plan [Member] Teamster National 401K Savings Plan [Member] Teamster National 401K Savings Plan [Member] Teamster National 401K Savings Plan [Member] Road Carriers Local 707 Pension Fund [Member] Road Carriers Local 707 Pension Fund [Member] Road Carriers Local 707 Pension Fund [Member] Teamsters Local 641 Pension Fund [Domain] Teamsters Local 641 Pension Fund [Domain] Teamsters Local 641 Pension Fund [Domain] Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis] Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis] Multiemployer Plans Type [Domain] Multiemployer Plans Type [Domain] Health and welfare Multiemployer Plans, Postretirement Benefit [Member] Pension Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member] Percentage of labor force Concentration Risk, Percentage Expense related to multi-employer plans Multiemployer Plan, Period Expense Multiemployer Plan, Period Expense Employer pension contribution percentage Multiemployer Plan, Collective-Bargaining Arrangement, Required Percentage of Contributions Contribution to the multi-employer plan Multiemployer Plans, Plan Contributions Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] JHJ international Transportation Co. [Member] JHJ international Transportation Co. [Member] JHJ international Transportation Co. [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Amendment [Axis] Amendment [Axis] Amendment [Axis] Amendment [Domain] Amendment [Domain] [Domain] for Amendment [Axis] February 17, 2010 Amendment [Member] February 17, 2010 Amendment [Member] February 17, 2010 Amendment [Member] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Reverse stock split, conversion ratio Stockholders' Equity Note, Reverse Stock Split, Conversion Ratio Stockholders' Equity Note, Reverse Stock Split, Conversion Ratio Rerate reserve as a reduction to accounts receivable Rerate Reserve, Reduction Of Accounts Receivable Rerate Reserve, Reduction Of Accounts Receivable Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Foreign currency transactions gains Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Risk-free rate for maturities of workers' compensation claims Risk Free Rate, Workers Compensation Claims Risk Free Rate, Workers Compensation Claims Risk-free rate for property damage and liability claims Risk Free Rate, Property Damage And Liability Claims Risk Free Rate, Property Damage And Liability Claims Accrued claims and insurance Accrued Insurance Payments for tax withheld on equity-based compensation Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation Net periodic pension cost Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Structures [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Revenue equipment [Member] Technology equipment and software [Member] Technology Equipment And Software [Member] Technology Equipment And Software [Member] Other [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Land Land Structures Buildings and Improvements, Gross Revenue equipment Revenue Equipment Revenue Equipment Technology equipment and software Technology Equipment And Software Technology Equipment And Software Other Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Total cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Property, plant and equipment, service life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Depreciation Depreciation Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract] Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract] Senior Notes Senior Notes [Member] Senior B Convertible Senior Secured Notes Senior B Convertible Senior Secured Notes [Member] Senior B Convertible Senior Secured Notes [Member] Aggregate principal amount Deb instrument, convertible, conversion price (in dollars per share) Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Expense related to fair value of incremental shares converted Expense Related to Fair Value of Incremental Shares Converted Expense Related to Fair Value of Incremental Shares Converted Repayments of debt Repayments of Debt Schedule Of Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Equity Method Investment Held For Sale Price Equity Method Investment Held For Sale Price Equity Method Investment Held For Sale Price Proceeds from disposal of equity method investment, net Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investment, Transaction Fee Equity Method Investment, Transaction Fee Equity Method Investment, Transaction Fee Equity Method Investment, Amount Sold Equity Method Investment, Amount Sold Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments Employee Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Minimum annual rentals 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Minimum annual rentals 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Minimum annual rentals 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Minimum annual rentals 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Minium annual rentals thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Committed for capital expenditures to be completed during 2015 Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Deferred debt costs Other Deferred Costs, Net Prepayments Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Noncurrent Other Other Assets, Miscellaneous Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income (loss) Noncash items included in net income (loss): Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Non-union pension settlement charge Deferred income tax benefit, net Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (Gains) losses on property disposals, net Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property Other noncash items, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in assets and liabilities, net: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade Other operating assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Other operating liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Restricted escrow receipts Decrease in Restricted Cash Restricted escrow deposits Increase in Restricted Cash Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Repayment of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payments for tax withheld on equity-based compensation Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net Increase (Decrease) In Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Year Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Year Supplemental Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid Interest Paid Letter of credit fees paid Letter Of Credit Fees Paid Letter of credit fees paid Income tax refund (payment), net Income Taxes Paid, Net Debt redeemed for equity consideration Debt Redeemed for Equity Consideration Debt redeemed for equity consideration. Current: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current income tax expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax benefit Income tax expense (benefit) Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Restricted amounts held in escrow Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Accounts receivable, less allowances of $12.0 and $9.5, respectively Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property and Equipment: Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Cost Less – accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Intangibles, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Restricted amounts held in escrow Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes, net Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Other assets Total Assets Assets Liabilities and Shareholders’ Deficit Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Wages, vacations and employee benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Deferred income taxes, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Claims and insurance accruals Claims And Insurance Accruals Current Claims And Insurance Accruals Current Other accrued taxes Accrued Payroll Taxes, Current Other current and accrued liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Current maturities of long-term debt Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Other Liabilities: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt, less current portion Deferred income taxes, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Pension and postretirement Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Noncurrent Claims and other liabilities Claims and Insurance Accruals Noncurrent Claims and insurance accruals noncurrent. Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Cumulative preferred stock, $1 par value per share - authorized 5,000,000 shares Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.01 par value per share - authorized 95,000,000 shares, issued 32,733,000 and 32,473,000 shares Common Stock, Value, Issued Capital surplus Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury stock, at cost (410 shares) Treasury Stock, Value Total shareholders’ deficit Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Deficit Liabilities and Equity Business Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of projected benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block] Amounts recognized for pension [Table Text Block] Benefit Plan Obligations [Table Text Block] Benefit Plan Obligations [Table Text Block] Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss [Table Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Information for penison plans with ABO in excess of plan assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of assumptions used [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Asset Allocation And Targeted Long Term Asset Allocation Schedule Of Asset Allocation And Targeted Long Term Asset Allocation [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Asset Allocation And Targeted Long Term Asset Allocation [Table Text Block] Schedule of expected benefit payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Components of net periodic pension cost recognized in other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans [Table Text Block] Pension assets at fair value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis (Level 3) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Level 3 assets using NAV [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Table Text Block] Schedule of multiemployer plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of multiemployer plans [Table Text Block] Pension amounts contributed by fund [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Individually Significant Funds And Pension Amounts Contributed [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Individually Significant Funds And Pension Amounts Contributed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Foreign Countries Foreign Countries [Member] Foreign Countries [Member] Corporate/Eliminations Corporate / Eliminations [Member] Corporate / Eliminations [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues Revenues Long-lived assets located in foreign countries Long-Lived Assets External revenue Operating income (loss) Identifiable assets Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment Depreciation and amortization Expected employer contribution in 2015 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year Expected benefit payments Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment [Abstract] 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Next Twelve Months 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Two 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Three 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Four 2022 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Five 2023-2027 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Accounting Policies [Abstract] Description Of Business Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risk and Other Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Uncollectible Accounts Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Claims and Self-Insurance Accruals Claims And Insurance Accruals [Policy Text Block] Claims And Insurance Accruals [Policy Text Block] Stock Compensation Plans Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments Equity and Cost Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Issued Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cargo Claims And Other Insurance Related Amounts [Member] Cargo Claims And Other Insurance Related Amounts [Member] Cargo Claims And Other Insurance Related Amounts [Member] LIability For Unpaid Claims And Claim Adjustment Expense, Adjustment Of Opening Balance [Roll Forward] LIability For Unpaid Claims And Claim Adjustment Expense, Adjustment Of Opening Balance [Roll Forward] LIability For Unpaid Claims And Claim Adjustment Expense, Adjustment Of Opening Balance [Roll Forward] Undiscounted amount Insurance Claims, Unidiscounted Amount Insurance Claims, Unidiscounted Amount Estimated settlement cost Current Year Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Claim payments, net of recoveries Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid Change in estimated settlement cost for older claim years Prior Year Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Undiscounted amount Discounted settlement cost estimate Insurance Claims, Discounted Amount Insurance Claims, Discounted Amount Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Schedule of Other Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Income before 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