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4cvd_NumberOfDefinedBenefitPensionPlanscvd_falsenainstantfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse33falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse33falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:integerItemTypeintegerRepresents the number of defined benefit pension plans sponsored by the entity for the benefit of its employees during the year.No definition available.false256Number of defined benefit pension plans3false 0truefalsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2false USDtruefalse$D2013Q2_UnitedKingdomPensionPlansDefinedBenefitMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001023131duration2013-04-01T00:00:002013-06-30T00:00:00falsefalseUnited Kingdom Defined Benefit Pension Plansus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresDefinedBenefitPlansAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldicvd_UnitedKingdomPensionPlansDefinedBenefitMemberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresDefinedBenefitPlansAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170SubsidiaryStandardhttp://www.covance.com/20130630subsidiarycvd0PlanStandardhttp://www.covance.com/20130630plancvd0USDUSD$nanafalse0United Kingdom Defined Benefit Pension Plans4true 3us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItemsus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Defined benefit plans disclosure5false 4cvd_NumberOfDefinedBenefitPensionPlanscvd_falsenainstantfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse22falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse22falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:integerItemTypeintegerRepresents the number of defined benefit pension plans sponsored by the entity for the benefit of its employees during the year.No definition available.false256Number of defined benefit pension plans6false 4cvd_DefinedBenefitPensionPlansNumberOfSubsidiariesSponsoredcvd_falsenainstantfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse22falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse22falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:integerItemTypeintegerThis element represents the number of subsidiaries of the entity where defined benefit pension plan is sponsored.No definition available.false256Sponsored defined benefit pension plans, number of subsidiaries7true 4us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost:8false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse458000458USD$falsetruefalse2truefalsefalse584000584USD$falsetruefalse3truefalsefalse922000922USD$falsetruefalse4truefalsefalse11630001163USD$falsetruefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period. The portion of the expected postretirement benefit obligation attributed to employee service during the period. The service cost component is a portion of the benefit obligation and is unaffected by the funded status of the plan.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph a, h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Service Cost (Component of Net Periodic Pension Cost) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6525008 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Service cost9false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse19510001951USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse19340001934USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse39310003931USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse38500003850USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe increase in a defined benefit pension plan's projected benefit obligation or a defined benefit postretirement plan's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation due to the passage of time.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph a, h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false2Interest cost10false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssetsus-gaap_truecreditdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegatedLabel1truefalsefalse-2484000-2484USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-2581000-2581USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-5005000-5005USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse-5138000-5138USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAn amount calculated as a basis for determining the extent of delayed recognition of the effects of changes in the fair value of assets. The expected return on plan assets is determined based on the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and the market-related value of plan assets.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 30 -Glossary Expected Return on Plan Assets -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6512136 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 60 -Glossary Expected Return on Plan Assets -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6512171 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Expected return on plan assets11false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLossesus-gaap_truecreditdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegatedLabel1truefalsefalse153000153USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse294000294USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse309000309USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse586000586USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of gains or losses recognized in net periodic benefit cost.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(4) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Amortization of net actuarial loss12false 5cvd_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostIncludingParticipantContributionscvd_falsedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotalLabel1truefalsefalse7800078USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse231000231USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse157000157USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse461000461USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe total amount of net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit plans for the period, including participant contributions for the period. Periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss), prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments, and participant contributions.No definition available.true2Net periodic benefit cost13true 4us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedInCalculationsAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost:14false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRateus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.04600.0460falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.04600.0460falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.04600.0460falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.04600.0460falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureThe interest rate used to adjust for the time value of money.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph j -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (k)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false0Discount rate (as a percent)15false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostExpectedLongTermReturnOnAssetsus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.05300.0530falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.05900.0590falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.05300.0530falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.05900.0590falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureAn assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligation.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph j -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 30 -Glossary Expected Long-Term Rate of Return on Plan Assets -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6512013 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (k)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false0Expected rate of return on assets (as a percent)16false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostRateOfCompensationIncreaseus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.03600.0360falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.04000.0400falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.03600.0360falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.04000.0400falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureExpected rate of compensation increases (for pay-related plans).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (k)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph j -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Salary increases (as a percent)17false 0truefalsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse6false USDtruefalse$D2013Q2_GermanPensionPlansDefinedBenefitMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001023131duration2013-04-01T00:00:002013-06-30T00:00:00falsefalseGerman Defined Benefit Pension Planus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresDefinedBenefitPlansAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldicvd_GermanPensionPlansDefinedBenefitMemberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresDefinedBenefitPlansAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170PlanStandardhttp://www.covance.com/20130630plancvd0SubsidiaryStandardhttp://www.covance.com/20130630subsidiarycvd0USDUSD$nanafalse0German Defined Benefit Pension Plan18true 3us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItemsus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Defined benefit plans disclosure19false 4cvd_NumberOfDefinedBenefitPensionPlanscvd_falsenainstantfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse11falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse11falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:integerItemTypeintegerRepresents the number of defined benefit pension plans sponsored by the entity for the benefit of its employees during the year.No definition available.false256Number of defined benefit pension plans20false 4cvd_DefinedBenefitPensionPlansNumberOfSubsidiariesSponsoredcvd_falsenainstantfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse11falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse11falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:integerItemTypeintegerThis element represents the number of subsidiaries of the entity where defined benefit pension plan is sponsored.No definition available.false256Sponsored defined benefit pension plans, number of subsidiaries21true 4us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost:22false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse192000192USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse184000184USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse386000386USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse370000370USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period. The portion of the expected postretirement benefit obligation attributed to employee service during the period. The service cost component is a portion of the benefit obligation and is unaffected by the funded status of the plan.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph a, h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Service Cost (Component of Net Periodic Pension Cost) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6525008 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Service cost23false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse151000151USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse171000171USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse304000304USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse344000344USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe increase in a defined benefit pension plan's projected benefit obligation or a defined benefit postretirement plan's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation due to the passage of time.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph a, h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false2Interest cost24false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLossesus-gaap_truecreditdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegatedLabel1truefalsefalse5600056USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse80008USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse113000113USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse1600016USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of gains or losses recognized in net periodic benefit cost.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(4) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Amortization of net actuarial loss25false 5cvd_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostIncludingParticipantContributionscvd_falsedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotalLabel1truefalsefalse399000399USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse363000363USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse803000803USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse730000730USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe total amount of net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit plans for the period, including participant contributions for the period. Periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss), prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments, and participant contributions.No definition available.true2Net periodic benefit cost26true 4us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedInCalculationsAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost:27false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRateus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.03500.0350falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.05400.0540falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.03500.0350falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.05400.0540falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureThe interest rate used to adjust for the time value of money.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph j -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (k)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false0Discount rate (as a percent)28false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostRateOfCompensationIncreaseus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.02000.0200falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.02500.0250falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.02000.0200falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.02500.0250falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureExpected rate of compensation increases (for pay-related plans).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (k)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph j -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Salary increases (as a percent)29false 0truefalsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse10false USDtruefalse$D2013Q2_SupplementalEmployeeRetirementPlanDefinedBenefitMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001023131duration2013-04-01T00:00:002013-06-30T00:00:00falsefalseSupplemental Executive Retirement Planus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresDefinedBenefitPlansAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_SupplementalEmployeeRetirementPlanDefinedBenefitMemberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresDefinedBenefitPlansAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170PlanStandardhttp://www.covance.com/20130630plancvd0USDUSD$nanafalse0Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan30true 3us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItemsus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Defined benefit plans disclosure31false 4cvd_NumberOfDefinedBenefitPensionPlanscvd_falsenainstantfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse11falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse11falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:integerItemTypeintegerRepresents the number of defined benefit pension plans sponsored by the entity for the benefit of its employees during the year.No definition available.false256Number of defined benefit pension plans32true 4us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost:33false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse377000377USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse370000370USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse754000754USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse739000739USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period. The portion of the expected postretirement benefit obligation attributed to employee service during the period. The service cost component is a portion of the benefit obligation and is unaffected by the funded status of the plan.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph a, h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Service Cost (Component of Net Periodic Pension Cost) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6525008 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Service cost34false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse181000181USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse194000194USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse362000362USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse388000388USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe increase in a defined benefit pension plan's projected benefit obligation or a defined benefit postretirement plan's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation due to the passage of time.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph a, h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false2Interest cost35false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCreditus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse-30000-30USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-30000-30USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-60000-60USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse-59000-59USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of the prior service cost or credit recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false2Amortization of prior service credit36false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLossesus-gaap_truecreditdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegatedLabel1truefalsefalse142000142USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse6700067USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse284000284USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse134000134USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of gains or losses recognized in net periodic benefit cost.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(4) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Amortization of net actuarial loss37false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotalLabel1truefalsefalse670000670USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse601000601USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse13400001340USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse12020001202USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe total amount of net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit plans for the period. Periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss), prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 true2Net periodic benefit cost38true 4us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedInCalculationsAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost:39false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRateus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.03200.0320falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.04300.0430falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.03200.0320falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.04300.0430falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureThe interest rate used to adjust for the time value of money.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph j -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (k)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false0Discount rate (as a percent)40false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostRateOfCompensationIncreaseus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.03250.0325falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.03750.0375falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.03250.0325falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.03750.0375falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureExpected rate of compensation increases (for pay-related plans).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (k)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph j -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Salary increases (as a percent)41false 0truefalsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse14false USDtruefalse$D2013Q2_UnitedStatesPostretirementBenefitPlansOfUSEntityDefinedBenefitMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001023131duration2013-04-01T00:00:002013-06-30T00:00:00falsefalsePost-Employment Retiree Health and Welfare Planus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresDefinedBenefitPlansAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_UnitedStatesPostretirementBenefitPlansOfUSEntityDefinedBenefitMemberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresDefinedBenefitPlansAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170PlanStandardhttp://www.covance.com/20130630plancvd0USDUSD$nanafalse0Post-Employment Retiree Health and Welfare Plan42true 3us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItemsus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Defined benefit plans disclosure43false 4cvd_NumberOfPostEmploymentRetireeHealthAndWelfarePlanscvd_falsenainstantfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse11falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse11falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:integerItemTypeintegerRepresents the number of post employment retiree health and welfare plans sponsored by the entity for the benefit of its employees during the year.No definition available.false256Number of post-employment retiree health and welfare plan44true 4us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost:45false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse1800018USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2400024USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse3600036USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse4800048USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period. The portion of the expected postretirement benefit obligation attributed to employee service during the period. The service cost component is a portion of the benefit obligation and is unaffected by the funded status of the plan.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph a, h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Service Cost (Component of Net Periodic Pension Cost) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6525008 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Service cost46false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truefalsefalse5900059USD$falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse7300073USD$falsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse119000119USD$falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse146000146USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe increase in a defined benefit pension plan's projected benefit obligation or a defined benefit postretirement plan's accumulated postretirement benefit obligation due to the passage of time.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 87 -Paragraph 264 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 106 -Paragraph 518 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph a, h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false2Interest cost47false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfGainsLossesus-gaap_truecreditdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegatedLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1000010USD$falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4truefalsefalse1900019USD$falsefalsefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of gains or losses recognized in net periodic benefit cost.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h)(4) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false2Amortization of net actuarial loss48false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCostus-gaap_truedebitdurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotalLabel1truefalsefalse7700077USD$falsetruefalse2truefalsefalse107000107USD$falsetruefalse3truefalsefalse155000155USD$falsetruefalse4truefalsefalse213000213USD$falsetruefalsexbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe total amount of net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit plans for the period. Periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain (loss), prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain (loss) due to settlements or curtailments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph h -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 true2Net periodic benefit cost49true 4us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedInCalculationsAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost:50false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRateus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.03600.0360falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.04600.0460falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.03600.0360falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.04600.0460falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureThe interest rate used to adjust for the time value of money.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph j -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (k)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 false0Discount rate (as a percent)51false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanHealthCareCostTrendRateAssumedForNextFiscalYearus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.07500.0750falsefalsefalse2truetruefalse0.08000.0800falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.07500.0750falsefalsefalse4truetruefalse0.08000.0800falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureThe assumed health care cost trend rate for the next year used to measure the expected cost of benefits covered by the plan (gross eligible charges). This is based upon the annual rate of change in the cost of health care benefits currently provided by the postretirement benefit plan, due to factors other than changes in the composition of the plan population by age and dependency status.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (l) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph l -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Health Care Cost Trend Rate -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6514820 false0Health care cost trend rate (as a percent)52false 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanUltimateHealthCareCostTrendRateus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1truetruefalse0.05000.0500falsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalse3truetruefalse0.05000.0500falsefalsefalse4falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsenum:percentItemTypepureThe ultimate trend rate for health care costs.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 715 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (l) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21915506&loc=d3e1928-114920 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 132R -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph l -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Health care cost ultimate trend rate (as a percent)falseDefined Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $)ThousandsUnKnownUnKnownUnKnowntruefalsefalseSheethttp://www.covance.com/role/DisclosureDefinedBenefitPlansDetails452