Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 30, 2012	Dec. 25, 2011	Dec. 26, 2010
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net (loss) earnings	$ (146,405)	$ (66,626)	$ 27,614
Amortization of pension plan actuarial losses, net of tax expense of $65, $63, and $29	218	137	103
Change in realized and unrealized (losses) gains on derivative hedges, net of tax (benefit) expense of ($71), $31, and $247	(1,521)	1,165	679
Recognized loss on pension, net of tax benefit of $4,410, $1,029, and $1,344	(11,176)	(2,571)	(3,405)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	534	3,542	(15,321)
Comprehensive (loss) income	(158,350)	(64,353)	9,670
Less: comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interests	(528)	(55)	(834)
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc.	$ (157,822)	$ (64,298)	$ 10,504