Earnings Per Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 25, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic loss from continuing operations attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. available to common stockholders	$ (3,728)	$ (10,623)
Basic loss from discontinued operations, net of tax expense (benefit) of $134 and ($80)	(2,556)	(368)
Diluted loss from continuing operations attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. available to common stockholders	(3,728)	(10,623)
Diluted loss from discontinued operations, net of tax expense (benefit) of $134 and ($80)	(2,556)	(368)
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	40,784	40,285
Shares issuable under deferred compensation agreements	404	527
Basic weighted- average number of common shares outstanding	41,188	40,812
Common shares assumed upon exercise of stock options and awards	0	0
Shares issuable under deferred compensation arrangements	0	0
Dilutive weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	41,188	40,812
Basic loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share:
Loss from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ (0.09)	$ (0.26)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (in dollars per share)	$ (0.06)	$ (0.01)
Basic loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share	$ (0.15)	$ (0.27)
Diluted loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share:
Loss from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ (0.09)	$ (0.26)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (in dollars per share)	$ (0.06)	$ (0.01)
Diluted loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share	$ (0.15)	$ (0.27)
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation	134	(80)
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect Of Discontinued Operations, Diluted	$ 134	$ (80)