Earnings Per Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic loss from continuing operations attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. available to common stockholders	$ (129)	$ (4,867)
Basic loss from discontinued operations, net of tax expense of $0 and $134	0	(2,556)
Diluted loss from continuing operations attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. available to common stockholders	(129)	(4,867)
Diluted loss from discontinued operations, net of tax expense of $0 and $134	0	(2,556)
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	41,541	40,784
Vested shares issuable under deferred compensation agreements	345	404
Basic weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	41,886	41,188
Common shares assumed upon exercise of stock options and awards	0	0
Unvested shares issuable under deferred compensation arrangements	0	0
Dilutive weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	41,886	41,188
Basic loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share:
Loss from continuing operations	$ 0.00	$ (0.12)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	$ 0.00	$ (0.06)
Basic loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share	$ 0.00	$ (0.18)
Diluted loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share:
Loss from continuing operations	$ 0.00	$ (0.12)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	$ 0.00	$ (0.06)
Diluted loss attributable to Checkpoint Systems, Inc. per share	$ 0.00	$ (0.18)
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation	0	134
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect Of Discontinued Operations, Diluted	$ 0	$ 134