Earnings Per Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 25, 2012	Mar. 27, 2011
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic loss from continuing operations attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. available to common stockholders	$ (10,671)	$ (8,222)
Diluted loss from continuing operations attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. available to common stockholders	$ (10,671)	$ (8,222)
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding	40,285	39,896
Shares issuable under deferred compensation agreements	527	435
Basic weighted- average number of common shares outstanding	40,812	40,331
Common shares assumed upon exercise of stock options and awards
Shares issuable under deferred compensation arrangements
Dilutive weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	40,812	40,331
Loss from continuing operations	$ (0.26)	$ (0.21)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)
Basic loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share	$ (0.27)	$ (0.22)
Loss from continuing operations	$ (0.26)	$ (0.21)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)
Diluted loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share	$ (0.27)	$ (0.22)