Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Customers (in customers) customers Number of customers Full service branches (in branches) fullservicebranches Number of full service branches Distribution centers (in distribution centers) distributioncenters Number of distribution centers Additional countries (in countries) Additionalcountries Additional countries Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] EQUITY INVESTMENT Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] CAPITAL STOCK Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award, Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award, Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award, Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward] Beginning of Year, Shares Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Number Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Number Grants in Period, Shares Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Stock Appreciation Rights, Grants in Period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Stock Appreciation Rights, Grants in Period Exercises in Period, Shares Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercises in Period Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercises in Period Forfeitures in Period, Shares Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Forfeitures in Period Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Forfeitures in Period Exercisable, Shares Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercisable Number Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercisable Number End of Year, Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning of Year Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Weighted Average Exercise Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price, Grants In Period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Stock Appreciation Rights Grants In Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Stock Appreciation Rights Grants In Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercises In Period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Exercises In Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercises in Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price, Forfeitures In Period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Forfeitures In Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Forfeitures in Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercisable Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price, End of Year Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term, Exercisable Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Exercisable Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercisable Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term, Outstanding Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Outstanding Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Options and Stock Appreciation Rights, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Exercisable Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Exercisable Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Options and Stock Appreciation Rights, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Net Income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Weighted average common shares outstanding used in computing basic earnings per share Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Common shares issuable upon exercise of dilutive stock options Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Common shares issuable from contingently convertible debentures Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Conversion of Debt Securities Weighted average common shares outstanding and common share equivalents used in computing diluted earnings per share Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings Per Share attributable to WESCO International, Inc. Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Segment, Geographical [Domain] United States [Member] UNITED STATES Canada [Member] CANADA Mexico MEXICO North American Operations North America [Member] North America [Member] Other Foreign Segment, Geographical, Groups of Countries, Group One [Member] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Net sales Revenue, Net Sales Revenue, Net, Percentage Sales Revenue, Net, Percentage Sales Revenue, Net, Percentage Long-Lived Assets Long-Lived Assets Condensed Financial Information [Abstract] Condensed Financial Information [Abstract] Condensed Financial Information [Table] Condensed Financial Information [Table] Condensed Financial Information [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Parent Company [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Condensed Financial Information [Line Items] Condensed Financial Information [Line Items] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Trade accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories, net Inventory, Net Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Intercompany receivables, net Due from Affiliate, Noncurrent Property, building and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Goodwill and other intangibles, net Goodwill Investments in affiliates and other noncurrent assets Investments in Affiliates and Other Noncurrent Assets Investments In Affiliates And Other Noncurrent Asset Total assets Assets Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Other current liabilities Condensed Statements Other Current Liabilities Condensed Statements Other Current Liabilities Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Intercompany payables, net Due to Affiliate, Noncurrent Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Other noncurrent liabilities Condensed Statements, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Condensed Statements, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Accounting Policies [Abstract] Sales Revenue, Services, Net Sales Revenue, Services, Net Supplier Volume Rebate Receivables Supplier Volume Rebate Receivables Supplier Volume Rebate Receivables Supplier Volume Rebate Range Low Supplier Volume Rebate Range Low Supplier Volume Rebate Range Low Supplier Volume Rebate Range High Supplier Volume Rebate Range High Supplier Volume Rebate Range High Supplier Volume Rebate Rate Supplier Volume Rebate Rate Supplier Volume Rebate Rate Supplier Volume Rebate Average Rate Supplier Volume Rebate Average Rate Supplier Volume Rebate Average Rate Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Provision for Doubtful Accounts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Inventory Valuation Reserves Inventory Valuation Reserves Inventory Write-down Inventory Write-down General and Administrative Costs in Inventory, Amount Incurred General and Administrative Costs in Inventory, Amount Incurred Increase in deferred charges Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Charges Deferred Finance Costs, Net Deferred Finance Costs, Net Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Trademarks Subject to a Decline in Performance Trademarks Subject to a Decline in Performance Trademarks Subject to a Decline in Performance Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Maximum (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Maximum Accrued Insurance Accrued Insurance Stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Fixed Rate Debt, Fair Value Disclosures Fixed Rate Debt, Fair Value Disclosures Fixed Rate Debt, Fair Value Disclosures Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Acquisition [Member] Acquisition [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] RS Electronics [Member] RS Electronics [Member] RS Electronics [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition Full Service Branches Acquired (in branches) Full Service Branches Acquired Full Service Branches Acquired Business Acquisition, Revenue Reported by Acquired Entity for Last Annual Period Business Acquisition, Revenue Reported by Acquired Entity for Last Annual Period Condensed Financial Information, Statements of Financial Condition Condensed Financial Information Statements Of Financial Condition [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information, Statements of Financial Condition [Table Text Block] Condensed Financial Information, Statement of Income Condensed Financial Information Statement Of Income [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information, Statement of Income [Table Text Block] Condensed Financial Information, Statements of Cash Flows Condensed Financial Information Statements Of Cash Flows [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information, Statements of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] SEGMENTS AND RELATED INFORMATION Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] DEBT Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Building and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Building and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Building and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Software [Member] Software [Member] Depreciable Assets [Member] Depreciable Assets [Member] Land [Member] Land [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, buildings and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, buildings and equipment, net 2012 Five Year Schedule of Maturities of Parent Company, Repayments of Principal within One Year 2013 Five Year Schedule of Maturities of Parent Company, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2014 Five Year Schedule of Maturities of Parent Company, Repayment of Principal in Year Three 2015 Five Year Schedule of Maturities of Parent Company, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2016 Five Year Schedule of Maturities of Parent Company, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Five Year Schedule of Maturities of Parent Company, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total payments on debt Long-term Debt, Gross Debt discount on convertible debentures Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Total long-term debt Long-term Debt Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] TVC Communications, LLC [Member] TVC Communications, LLC [Member] TVC Communications, LLC [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Assets Acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents Trade accounts receivable Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Receivables Other accounts receivable Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Accounts Receivable Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Accounts Receivable Inventories Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Inventory Prepaid expenses and other current assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Property, buildings and equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Other noncurrent assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Assets Total assets acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired Liabilities Assumed Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed [Abstract] Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed [Abstract] Accounts payable Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Accrued payroll and benefit costs Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities, Accrued Liabilities Other current liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities, Other Liabilities Total liabilities assumed Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed Fair value of net assets acquired, including intangible assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Mortgages [Member] Mortgages [Member] Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility [Member] Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility [Member] Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] 2017 Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] 2017 Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] 2017 Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures Due in 2026 [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures Due in 2026 [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures 1.75 Percent Due 2026 [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures Due in 2029 [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures Due in 2029 [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures 6.0 Percent Due 2029 [Member] Acquisition Related Notes [Member] Acquisition Related Notes [Member] Acquisition Related Notes [Member] Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term Debt Total debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Less current portion Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Total long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Income Statement [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Cost of goods sold Cost of Goods and Services Sold Selling, general and administrative expense Selling, General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Income from operations Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Gain on debt exchange Gain on debt exchange Gain on debt exchange Other income Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income attributable to WESCO International, Inc. Earnings per share : PROPERTY, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] United States Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Income before income taxes Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Intangible Assets by Major Class Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Supplier Concentration Risk [Member] Supplier Concentration Risk [Member] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Cost of Goods, Total [Member] Cost of Goods, Total [Member] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Foreign Country [Member] Foreign Country [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards, Net of Federal Income Tax Operating Loss Carryforwards, Net of Federal Income Tax Operating Loss Carryforwards, Net of Federal Income Tax Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Leasehold Improvements [Member] Leasehold Improvements [Member] Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment [Member] Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment [Member] Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment [Member] Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member] Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member] Computer Equipment and Software [Member] Computer Equipment and Software [Member] Computer Equipment and Software [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum ACCOUNTING POLICIES Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Depreciation Depreciation Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization Capitalized Computer Software, Net Capitalized Computer Software, Net Capital Leased Assets, Gross Capital Leased Assets, Gross Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Operating Leases, Rent Expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] 2012 Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2013 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2015 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2016 Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Schedule of Debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Outstanding Convertible Debenture Schedule Outstanding Covertible Debenture Schedule [Table Text Block] Components of outstading convertible debenture indebtness including principal balance, discount and net carrying amount for the current and prior years. Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION Condensed Financial Information [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information [Text Block] Schedule of Product Information [Table] Schedule of Product Information [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] General and Industrial Supplies General and Industrial Supplies [Member] General and Industrial Supplies [Member] Wire, Cable and Conduit Wire, Cable and Conduit [Member] Wire, Cable and Conduit [Member] Data Communications Data Communications [Member] Data Communications [Member] Power Distribution Equipment Power Distribution Equipment [Member] Power Distribution Equipment [Member] Lighting and Controls Lighting and Controls [Member] Lighting and Controls [Member] Control, Automation and Motors Control, Automation and Motors [Member] Control, Automation and Motors [Member] Product Information [Line Items] Product Information [Line Items] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net, Percentage Sales Revenue, Goods, Net, Percentage Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Award Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Award Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Class B Common Class B [Member] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $21,590 and $18,562 in 2011 and 2010, respectively Other accounts receivable Other Receivables, Net, Current Current deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Income taxes receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Goodwill Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accrued payroll and benefit costs Employee-related Liabilities, Current Current portion of long-term debt Bank overdrafts Bank Overdrafts Current deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Long-term debt, net of discount of $175,908 and $178,427 in 2011 and 2010, respectively Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' Equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock, $.01 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued or outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common Stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost; 17,936,923 and 17,905,740 shares in 2011 and 2010, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total WESCO International stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total stockholders' equity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Stock Options Involved In Private Negotiation Transaction Stock Options Involved In Private Negotiation Transaction Stock Options Involved In Private Negotiation Transaction Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Subsequent Fiscal Year Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Subsequent Fiscal Year Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Subsequent Fiscal Year Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Two Years Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Two Years Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Two Years Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Three Years Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Three Years Employee Service, Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized In Three Years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Income Tax Examinations Summary of Income Tax Examinations [Table Text Block] Summary of Income Tax Contingencies Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK AND SIGNIFICANT SUPPLIERS Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Convertible Senior Debentures Due In 2025 [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures Due In 2025 [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures Due In 2025 [Member] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Comprehensive Income [Member] Comprehensive Income [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Stockholders' equity at period start Shares at period start Shares, Outstanding Exercise of stock options, value Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercised Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Exercised Exercise of stock options, amount Stock-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Issuance of convertible debt instruments, net of tax impact of $68,641 Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Exchange of debt, net of tax impact of $9,837 Adjustments to Paid in Capital, Exchange of Debt Adjustments to Paid In Capital, Exchange of Debt Conversion of debentures, value Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities Conversion of debentures, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Issuance of treasury stock, value Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuance of treasury stock, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Exercise of restricted stock units and retirement of common stock, value Exercise of Restricted Stock Units and Retirement of Common Stock, Value Exercise of Restricted Stock Units and Retirement of Common Stock Exercise of restricted stock units and retirement of common stock, shares Exercise of Restricted Stock Units and Retirement of Common Stock, Shares Exercise of Restricted Stock Units and Retirement of Common Stock Acquisition of noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Net income Translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' equity at period end Shares at period end Current taxes Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax expense Goodwill [Roll Forward] Beginning balance January 1 Translation adjustments and payments to goodwill for prior acquisitions Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Additions to goodwill for acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Ending balance December 31 COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Debt Instrument, Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component Debt Instrument, Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Notes Receivable [Member] Notes Receivable [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Deutsch Engineered Connecting Devices, Inc. [Member] Deutsch Engineered Connecting Devices, Inc. [Member] Deutsch Engineered Connecting Devices, Inc. [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Equity Investment, Percentage Not Owned Equity Investment, Percentage Not Owned Equity Investment, Percentage Not Owned Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Investment, Total Consideration Received Equity Investment, Total Consideration Received Equity Investment, Total Consideration Received Equity Investment, Cash Received Equity Investment, Cash Received Equity Investment, Cash Received Equity Investment, Note Receivable Equity Investment, Note Receivable Equity Investment, Note Receivable Amended Promissory Note Agreement, Effective Date Amended Promissory Note Agreement, Effective Date Amended Promissory Note Agreement, Effective Date Interest Receivable Interest Receivable Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Notification of Sale of Joint Venture, Effective Date Notification of Sale of Joint Venture, Effective Date Notification of Sale of Joint Venture, Effective Date Selling Price of Equity Investment Selling Price of Equity Investment Selling Price of Equity Investment Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments Sale of Joint Venture, Effective Date Sale of Joint Venture, Effective Date Sale of Joint Venture, Effective Date Basis of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block] Supplier Volume Rebates Cost of Sales, Vendor Allowances, Policy [Policy Text Block] Shipping and Handling Costs and Fees Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Securitization Asset Securitization [Policy Text Block] Asset Securitization [Policy Text Block] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivables, Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Assets Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Buildings and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Insurance Programs Insurance Programs [Policy Text Block] Insurance Programs [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Convertible Debentures Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Treasury Stock Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Environmental Expenditures Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Net cash (used) provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Acquisition payments Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Sale of subsidiary Proceeds from Divestiture of Interest in Joint Venture Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Net borrowings (repayments) Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Equity transactions Proceeds from (Repurchase of) Equity Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided (used) by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net change in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents at the end of period Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Income from operations Net Income attributable to WESCO International, Inc. Basic earnings per share attributable to WESCO International, Inc. Diluted earnings per share attributable to WESCO International, Inc. Weighted Average Assumptions for Share-based Payment Awards [Table] Weighted Average Assumptions for Share-based Payment Awards [Table] Weighted Average Assumptions for Share-based Payment Awards [Table] Weighted Average Assumptions for Fair Value Calculation of Share-based Payment Awards [Line Items] Weighted Average Assumptions for Fair Value Calculation of Share-based Payment Awards [Line Items] Weighted Average Assumptions for Fair Value Calculation of Share-based Payment Awards [Line Items] Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Risk free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected life (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Schedule of Intangible Assets Schedule of Goodwill wcc [Table] Change in carrying amount for classes of intangible assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trademarks [Member] Trademarks [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Non-compete agreements Noncompete Agreements [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Distribution agreements Distribution Rights [Member] Patents Patents [Member] Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Intangible Assets Gross Excluding Goodwill Intangible Assets Gross Excluding Goodwill Intangible Assets Gross Excluding Goodwill Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life ORGANIZATION Nature of Operations [Text Block] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Supplier Relationships [Member] Supplier Relationships [Member] Supplier Relationships [Member] Patented Technology [Member] Patented Technology [Member] RECO, LLC [Member] RECO, LLC [Member] RECO, LLC [Member] Brews Supply, Ltd [Member] Brews Supply, Ltd [Member] Brews Supply, Ltd [Member] Potelcom Supply, Inc [Member] Potelcom Supply, Inc [Member] Potelcom Supply, Inc [Member] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Weighted Average Useful Life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Weighted Average Useful Life Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets Not Amortizable Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets Not Amortizable Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Business Combination, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Net Sales Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Net Income Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Earnings per common share: Earnings Per Share, Pro Forma [Abstract] Basic Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate State taxes, net of federal tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes Nondeductible expenses Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense Domestic tax benefit from foreign operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Domestic Tax Benefit From Foreign Operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Domestic Tax Benefit From Foreign Operations Foreign tax rate differences Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential Federal tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credits Domestic production activity deduction Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Qualified Production Activities Adjustment related to uncertain tax positions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Adjustment Related to Uncertain Tax Positions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Adjustment Related to Uncertain Tax Positions Revaluation of deferred tax items Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Revaluation of Deferred Tax Items Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Revaluation of Deferred Tax Items Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Amortization of debt issuance costs Amortization of Financing Costs Amortization of debt discount Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) (Gain) loss on sale of property, buildings and equipment Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment Asset impairment charge Asset Impairment Charges Equity income, net of distributions in 2010 and 2009 of $1,864 and $5,658, respectively Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Interest related to uncertain tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense Deferred income taxes Changes in assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Trade and other receivables, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Inventories, net Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued payroll and benefit costs Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities Other current and noncurrent liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Capital expenditures Acquisition payments, net of cash acquired Proceeds from sale of subsidiary Equity distribution Equity Distribution Distributions From Equity Investments Collection of note receivable Proceeds from Collection of Notes Receivable Proceeds from sale of assets Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayments of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Proceeds from the exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Repurchase of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Increase (decrease) in bank overdrafts Proceeds from (Repayments of) Bank Overdrafts Payments on capital lease obligations Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents Net change in cash and cash equivalents Supplemental disclosures: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest Interest Paid Cash paid for taxes Income Taxes Paid Non-cash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Property, buildings and equipment acquired through capital leases Capital Lease Obligations Incurred SUBSEQUENT EVENT Subsequent Events [Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Convertible Debt Securities [Member] Convertible Debt Securities [Member] Convertible Senior Debenture Due in 2026 [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Weighted Average Exercise Price Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Weighted Average Exercise Price Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Weighted Average Exercise Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Earnings Per Share Dilution Limit Earnings Per Share Dilution Limit Earnings Per Share Dilution Limit Effect of Dilutive Securities on Earnings Per Share Effect of Dilutive Securities on Earnings Per Share Effect of Dilutive Securities on Earnings per Share Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Deferred Tax Asset, Tranfser Pricing Deferred Tax Asset, Tranfser Pricing Deferred Tax Asset, Tranfser Pricing Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Table Text Block] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Table Text Block] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] 2012 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2013 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Convertible Debt [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Principal Balance Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Product stock keeping units (in stock keeping units) Product Stock Keeping Units Product Stock Keeping Units Products (in products) Products Products Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Employee Benefit Plans [Table] Schedule of Employee Benefit Plans [Table] Schedule of Employee Benefit Plans [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Schedule of Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items] Schedule of Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items] Defined contribution plan, employer matching contribution, percent Defined Contribution Plan Employer Matching Contribution Percent Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Contributions, Percentage Match of Eligible Compensation Defined contribution plan, maximum annual contribution per employee, percent Defined Contribution Plan Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee Percent Defined Contribution Plan Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee Percent Defined contribution plan, employer discretionary contribution amount Defined Contribution Plan Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Defined Contribution Plan Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Defined contribution plan, cost recognized Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Details of acquisitions: Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Fair value of assets acquired Fair value of liabilities assumed Deferred acquisition payments Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, at Fair Value Cash paid for acquisitions Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Supplemental cash flow disclosure related to acquisitions: Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired [Abstract] Less: cash acquired Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] ACQUISITIONS Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Cost of goods sold Results of affiliates' operations Results of Affiliates Operations Results of Affiliates Operations Interest Expense, net Interest Expense Other income Other Nonoperating Income Net income (loss) SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Beginning balance January 1 Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Additions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Lapse in statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Ending balance December 31 Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table] Deferred Tax [Axis] Deferred Tax [Axis] Deferred Tax [Axis] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Accounts receivable Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Employee benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Benefits Tax loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Deferred taxes, Assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Inventory Deferred Tax Liabilities, Inventory Amount of deferred tax consequences attributable to taxable temporary differences derived from inventory. Depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Amortization of intangible assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets Convertible debt interest Deferred Tax Liabilities, Financing Arrangements Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Deferred taxes, Liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Unvested, Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Vested in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Unvested, Weighted Average Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted, Weighted Average Fair Value Vested in Period, Weighted Average Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Interest Rate [Axis] Interest Rate [Axis] Interest Rate [Axis] Interest Rate [Domain] Interest Rate [Domain] Interest Rate [Domain] LIBOR [Member] LIBOR [Member] LIBOR [Member] Alternative Rate [Member] Alternative Rate [Member] Alternative Rate [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Increase to Purchase Commitments Increase to Purchase Commitments Increase to Purchase Commitments Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Reduction in Interest Rate Margin Reduction in Interest Rate Margin Reduction in Interest Rate Margin Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Accounts Receivable Eligible for Securitization Accounts Receivable Eligible for Securitization Accounts Receivable Eligible for Securitization Accounts Receivable from Securitization Accounts Receivable from Securitization Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End Leverage Ratio Leverage Ratio Leverage Ratio Average Daily Excess Availability Average Daily Excess Availability Average Daily Excess Availability Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Debt Instrument, Decrease, Repayments Debt Instrument, Decrease, Repayments Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Debt Instrument, Repurchase Price Debt Instrument Repurchase Price Debt Instrument, Repurchase Price Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Debt Conversion, Converted Instrument, Amount Debt Conversion, Converted Instrument, Amount Debt Conversion, Converted Instrument, Shares Issued Debt Conversion, Converted Instrument, Shares Issued Debt Instrument, Convertible, Effective Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Convertible, Effective Interest Rate Interest Expense Gain on Debt Exchange Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Percent of Principal Amount Contigent on Additional Interest Payment Percent of Principal Amount Contigent on Additional Interest Payment Percent of Principal Amount Contigent on Additional Interest Payment Contingent Interest Payable Percentage of Average Trading Price Contingent Interest Payable Percentage of Average Trading Price Contingent Interest Payable Percentage of Average Trading Price of $1,000 Principal Amount Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Stockholders' Equity Parenthetical [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Parenthetical [Abstract] Tax benefit from exercise of stock options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options Tax impact of issuance of convertible debt instruments Tax Impact of Issuance of Convertible Debt Instruments Tax Impact of Issuance of Convertible Debt Instruments Tax impact of exchange of debt Tax Impact of Exchange of Debt Tax Impact of Exchange of Debt Balance Sheet Parenthetical [Abstract] Balance Sheet Parenthetical [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts Debt discount Common stock, par value Common stock, shares authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Preferred stock, par value Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Statement of Cash Flows Parenthetical [Abstract] Statement of Cash Flows Parenthetical [Abstract] Equity income, distributions Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions