Kirby (KEX) 10-Q 7 Aug 17 2017 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Aug. 04, 2017
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	KIRBY CORP
Entity Central Index Key	56,047
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		54,005,000
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2017

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaud

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 1,577	$ 5,634
Accounts receivable:
Trade - less allowance for doubtful accounts	287,282	297,177
Other	94,994	95,327
Inventories - net	180,841	185,402
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	38,951	49,411
Total current assets	603,645	632,951
Property and equipment	4,359,359	4,328,897
Less accumulated depreciation	(1,470,352)	(1,407,523)
Property and equipment - net	2,889,007	2,921,374
Goodwill	598,131	598,131
Other assets	134,573	137,439
Total assets	4,225,356	4,289,895
Current liabilities:
Income taxes payable	390	3,288
Accounts payable	142,371	134,571
Accrued liabilities	170,896	184,478
Deferred revenues	28,337	36,001
Total current liabilities	341,994	358,338
Long-term debt - less current portion	591,535	722,802
Deferred income taxes	741,821	705,453
Other long-term liabilities	72,618	90,435
Total long-term liabilities	1,405,974	1,518,690
Contingencies and commitments
Kirby stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $.10 par value per share. Authorized 120,000,000 shares, issued 59,776,000 shares	5,978	5,978
Additional paid-in capital	429,797	432,459
Accumulated other comprehensive income - net	(36,121)	(51,007)
Retained earnings	2,387,011	2,342,236
Treasury stock - at cost, 5,770,000 shares at June 30, 2017 and 5,921,000 at December 31, 2016	(312,771)	(320,348)
Total Kirby stockholders' equity	2,473,894	2,409,318
Noncontrolling interests	3,494	3,549
Total equity	2,477,388	2,412,867
Total liabilities and equity	$ 4,225,356	$ 4,289,895

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Unau3

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Kirby stockholders' equity:
Common stock, par value per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10	$ 0.10
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	120,000,000	120,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	59,776,000	59,776,000
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	5,770,000	5,921,000

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF EARNING

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Revenues:
Marine transportation	$ 331,265	$ 378,303	$ 674,917	$ 756,646
Diesel engine services	142,063	63,279	290,116	143,669
Total revenues	473,328	441,582	965,033	900,315
Costs and expenses:
Costs of sales and operating expenses	324,540	276,897	669,836	565,807
Selling, general and administrative	46,531	42,842	92,649	93,303
Taxes, other than on income	6,344	5,468	12,993	10,872
Depreciation and amortization	48,293	49,661	96,463	98,285
Loss (gain) on disposition of assets	139	(94)	40	(161)
Total costs and expenses	425,847	374,774	871,981	768,106
Operating income	47,481	66,808	93,052	132,209
Other income (expense)	(1)	179	(117)	314
Interest expense	(4,465)	(4,513)	(8,922)	(8,706)
Earnings before taxes on income	43,015	62,474	84,013	123,817
Provision for taxes on income	(17,043)	(23,365)	(30,396)	(46,224)
Net earnings	25,972	39,109	53,617	77,593
Less: Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests	(194)	(167)	(356)	(552)
Net earnings attributable to Kirby	$ 25,778	$ 38,942	$ 53,261	$ 77,041
Net earnings per share attributable to Kirby common stockholders:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.48	$ 0.72	$ 0.99	$ 1.43
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.48	$ 0.72	$ 0.99	$ 1.43

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREH

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 25,972	$ 39,109	$ 53,617	$ 77,593
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes:
Pension and postretirement benefits	14,140	(3,149)	14,886	(2,500)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	14,140	(3,149)	14,886	(2,500)
Total comprehensive income, net of taxes	40,112	35,960	68,503	75,093
Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests	(194)	(167)	(356)	(552)
Comprehensive income attributable to Kirby	$ 39,918	$ 35,793	$ 68,147	$ 74,541

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FL

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings	$ 53,617	$ 77,593
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operations:
Depreciation and amortization	96,463	98,285
Provision for deferred income taxes	18,651	29,682
Amortization of unearned share-based compensation	5,924	5,545
Amortization of major maintenance costs	9,938	9,295
Amortization of debt issuance costs	588	401
Other	29	(661)
Increase (decrease) in cash flows resulting from changes in operating assets and liabilities, net	8,585	(8,523)
Net cash provided by operating activities	193,795	211,617
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(92,509)	(111,048)
Acquisitions of businesses and marine equipment	0	(120,991)
Proceeds from disposition of assets	27,966	3,147
Net cash used in investing activities	(64,543)	(228,892)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings (payments) on bank credit facilities, net	(131,855)	23,438
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	1,838	321
Purchase of treasury stock	0	(1,827)
Acquisition of noncontrolling interests	(7)	(4,160)
Payments related to tax withholding for share-based compensation	(2,874)	(1,750)
Other	(411)	(1,773)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(133,309)	14,249
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(4,057)	(3,026)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	5,634	5,885
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	1,577	2,859
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Interest paid	9,724	9,823
Income taxes paid	16,274	14,519
Capital expenditures included in accounts payable	6,289	(9,769)
Fair value of property transferred in acquisition	$ 0	$ 3,681

BASIS FOR PREPARATION OF THE CO

BASIS FOR PREPARATION OF THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
BASIS FOR PREPARATION OF THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS [Abstract]
BASIS FOR PREPARATION OF THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS	(1) BASIS FOR PREPARATION OF THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The condensed financial statements included herein have been prepared by Kirby Corporation (the “Company”), without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although the Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading, certain information and footnote disclosures, including significant accounting policies normally included in annual financial statements, have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. It is suggested that these condensed financial statements be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADOPTIONS

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADOPTIONS	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADOPTIONS [Abstract]
ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADOPTIONS	(2) ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADOPTIONS In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-07, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost” (“ASU 2017-07”) which requires employers to include only the service cost component of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in operating expenses. The other components of net benefit cost are required to be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component and outside a subtotal of income from operations. The standard allows only the service cost component to be eligible for capitalization when applicable. ASU 2017-07 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted. This standard shall be applied retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the income statement and prospectively for the capitalization of the service cost benefit in assets. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment” (“ASU 2017-04”) which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by eliminating Step 2 in the goodwill impairment test that required an entity to perform procedures to determine the fair value of its assets and liabilities at the testing date. An entity instead will perform its annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying value and record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. ASU 2017-04 will be applied prospectively and is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests conducted in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment testing dates after January 1, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact, if any, that the adoption of this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments” (“ASU 2016-15”) to create consistency in practice in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-15 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting” (“ASU 2016-09”) which simplifies several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including income tax consequences, forfeitures, minimum statutory tax withholding requirements, classification as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2016-09 on January 1, 2017. ASU 2016-09 requires all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies be recognized as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement, thus eliminating additional paid-in capital pools. The Company recognized a cumulative effect adjustment of $8,486,000 to retained earnings on a modified retrospective basis as of January 1, 2017 and will apply the new standard guidance prospectively to all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies resulting from settlements after January 1, 2017. The standard also requires a policy election to either estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest or account for forfeitures when they occur. The Company will elect to account for forfeitures when they occur. Also, the standard requires that excess tax benefits should be classified along with other income tax cash flows as an operating activity on the statement of cash flows, which differs from the Company’s historical classification of excess tax benefits as cash inflows from financing activities. The Company elected to apply this provision using the prospective transition method. Additionally, the standard requires cash paid by an employer when directly withholding shares for tax withholding purposes to be classified in the statement of cash flows as a financing activity, which differs from the Company’s previous method of classification of such cash payments as an operating activity. The Company applied this provision retrospectively and, for the six months ended June 30, 2016, reclassified $1,750,000, which increased net cash provided by operating activities and net cash used in financing activities. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” (“ASU 2016-02”) to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by requiring recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosure of key information about leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. A modified retrospective approach is required. The Company has formed a project team to evaluate the impact that the adoption of this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures. The project team has completed training on the new standard and has started lease review and documentation, but the Company has not yet determined the effect of ASU 2016-02 on its ongoing financial reporting. In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, “Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes” (“ASU 2015-17”) which requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. The current requirement that deferred tax liabilities and assets of a tax-paying component of an entity be offset and presented as a single amount is not affected by this guidance. The guidance may be applied either prospectively to all deferred tax liabilities and assets or retrospectively to all periods presented. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2015-17 on January 1, 2017 on a retrospective basis. The December 31, 2016 current deferred tax assets of $13,604,000 have been reclassified in the consolidated balance sheet from current deferred income taxes asset to noncurrent deferred income taxes liability. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, “Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory” (“ASU 2015-11”) which applies to inventory that is measured using first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) or average cost. Under the guidance, an entity should measure inventory that is within the scope of this update at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. ASU 2015-11 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and should be applied prospectively with early adoption permitted at the beginning of an interim period or annual reporting period. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2015-11 on January 1, 2017 and, based on a lower of cost and net realizable value inventory analysis as of December 31, 2016, no adjustments to inventory value were required. The analysis reflected the inventory values are proper within the guidance of ASU 2015-11. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASU 2014-09”). ASU 2014-09 requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles when it becomes effective. In July 2015, the FASB voted to delay the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year, making it effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted as of the original effective date. ASU 2014-09 permits the use of either the retrospective, modified retrospective or prospective with a cumulative catch-up approach. The Company has formed a project team to evaluate the standard and determine the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. The project team has completed training on the new standard and has started contract review and documentation. The Company has not yet selected a transition method nor has it determined the effect of ASU 2014-09 on its ongoing financial reporting.

ACQUISITIONS

ACQUISITIONS	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
ACQUISITIONS [Abstract]
ACQUISITIONS	(3) ACQUISITIONS On July 10, 2017, the Company completed the purchase of certain inland marine assets from an undisclosed competitor for $68,000,000 in cash. The assets purchased consisted of nine specialty pressure tank barges, four 30,000 barrel tank barges and three 1320 horsepower inland towboats. The average age of the 13 inland tank barges was five years. The 13 tank barges transport petrochemicals and refined petroleum products on the Mississippi River System and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. The Company has not completed the final purchase price allocation at this time. On June 13, 2017, the Company signed an agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets and businesses of Stewart & Stevenson LLC (“S&S”), a global manufacturer and distributor of products and services for the oil and gas, marine, construction, power generation, transportation, mining and agricultural industries. Founded in 1902, S&S serves domestic and global markets with equipment, rental solutions, parts and service through a strategic network of sales and service centers in domestic and international locations. The purchase price is approximately $710,000,000 (before post-closing adjustments and transaction fees) and will be funded through the Company’s revolving credit facility and Company common stock valued at approximately $355,000,000. S&S, headquartered in Houston, Texas with 42 branches across 12 states, is a distributor in certain geographic areas for Allison Transmission, MTU, Detroit Diesel, Electro-Motive Diesel, Deutz and several other manufacturers. On June 26, 2017, the Federal Trade Commission granted the Company early termination of the Hart-Scott-Rodino waiting period for the acquisition of S&S. The closing of the transaction is subject to certain conditions, including obtaining a number of consents from third prarties.

INVENTORIES

INVENTORIES	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
INVENTORIES [Abstract]
INVENTORIES	(4) INVENTORIES The following table presents the details of inventories as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands): June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Finished goods $ 167,638 $ 178,740 Work in process 13,203 6,662 $ 180,841 $ 185,402

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract]
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	(5) FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS The estimated fair value of total debt outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 was $587,607,000 and $715,330,000, respectively, which differs from the carrying amounts of $591,535,000 and $722,802,000, respectively, included in the consolidated financial statements. The fair value was determined using an income approach that relies on inputs such as yield curves. Cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities have carrying values that approximate fair value due to the short-term maturity of these financial instruments. Certain assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. These assets are adjusted to fair value when there is evidence of impairment. During the six months ended June 30, 2017, there was no indication that the Company’s long-lived assets were impaired, and accordingly, measurement at fair value was not required.

LONG-TERM DEBT

LONG-TERM DEBT	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
LONG-TERM DEBT [Abstract]
LONG-TERM DEBT	(6) LONG-TERM DEBT On June 26, 2017, the Company entered into an amendment of its existing unsecured revolving credit facility (“Revolving Credit Facility”) with a group of commercial banks that increases the borrowing limit from $550,000,000 to $850,000,000 and extends the maturity date to June 26, 2022. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for a variable interest rate based on the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) or an alternate base rate calculated with reference to the agent bank’s prime rate, among other factors (“Alternate Base Rate”). The interest rate spread varies with the Company’s senior debt rating and is currently 1.00% over LIBOR or equal to the Alternate Base Rate. In addition, the Revolving Credit Facility allows for a $300,000,000 increase in the aggregate commitments of the banks in the form of revolving credit loans or term loans, subject to the consent of each bank that elects to participate in the increased commitment. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility may be used for general corporate purposes, the purchase of existing or new equipment, the purchase of the Company’s common stock, or for business acquisitions. The Company recognized additional interest expense of $187,000 in the 2017 second quarter due to the write-off of certain deferred issue costs in connection with the amendment of the Revolving Credit Facility.

STOCK AWARD PLANS

STOCK AWARD PLANS	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
STOCK AWARD PLANS [Abstract]
STOCK AWARD PLANS	(7) STOCK AWARD PLANS The Company has share-based compensation plans which are described below. The compensation cost that has been charged against earnings for the Company’s stock award plans and the income tax benefit recognized in the statement of earnings for stock awards for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Compensation cost $ 3,231 $ 2,961 $ 5,924 $ 5,545 Income tax benefit $ 1,271 $ 1,110 $ 2,152 $ 2,079 The Company has an employee stock award plan for selected officers and other key employees which provides for the issuance of stock options, restricted stock and performance awards. The exercise price for each option equals the fair market value per share of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Substantially all stock options outstanding under the plan have terms of seven years and vest ratably over three years. No performance awards payable in stock have been awarded under the plan. At June 30, 2017, 1,741,076 shares were available for future grants under the employee plan and no outstanding stock options under the employee plan were issued with stock appreciation rights. The following is a summary of the stock option activity under the employee plan described above for the six months ended June 30, 2017: Outstanding Non- Qualified or Nonincentive Stock Awards Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2016 601,121 $ 65.33 Granted 121,908 $ 68.50 Exercised (16,910 ) $ 32.82 Outstanding at June 30, 2017 706,119 $ 66.66 The following table summarizes information about the Company’s outstanding and exercisable stock options under the employee plan at June 30, 2017: Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Prices Number Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Number Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value $ 46.74 - $51.23 212,335 4.3 $ 50.03 108,531 $ 48.89 $ 64.89 - $74.99 424,643 4.5 $ 69.78 237,022 $ 70.31 $ 93.64 - $96.85 33,987 3.6 $ 94.31 33,987 $ 94.31 $ 101.46 - $104.37 35,154 3.7 $ 102.60 35,154 $ 102.60 $ 46.74 - $104.37 706,119 4.3 $ 66.66 $ 3,711,000 414,694 $ 69.41 $ 2,029,000 The following is a summary of the restricted stock award activity under the employee plan described above for the six months ended June 30, 2017: Unvested Restricted Stock Award Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested balance at December 31, 2016 377,655 $ 66.14 Granted 125,545 $ 68.55 Vested (105,272 ) $ 68.92 Forfeited (1,017 ) $ 64.20 Nonvested balance at June 30, 2017 396,911 $ 66.17 The Company has a stock award plan for nonemployee directors of the Company which provides for the issuance of stock options and restricted stock. The director plan provides for automatic grants of restricted stock to nonemployee directors after each annual meeting of stockholders. In addition, the director plan allows for the issuance of stock options or restricted stock in lieu of cash for all or part of the annual director fee at the option of the director. The exercise prices for all options granted under the plan are equal to the fair market value per share of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The terms of the options are ten years. The restricted stock issued after each annual meeting of stockholders vests six months after the date of grant. Options granted and restricted stock issued in lieu of cash director fees vest in equal quarterly increments during the year to which they relate. At June 30, 2017, 510,071 shares were available for future grants under the director plan. The director stock award plan is intended as an incentive to attract and retain qualified independent directors. The following is a summary of the stock option activity under the director plan described above for the six months ended June 30, 2017: Outstanding Non- Qualified or Nonincentive Stock Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2016 205,429 $ 64.60 Granted 3,188 $ 70.65 Exercised (39,000 ) $ 46.23 Forfeited (12,000 ) $ 87.35 Outstanding at June 30, 2017 157,617 $ 67.54 The following table summarizes information about the Company’s outstanding and exercisable stock options under the director plan at June 30, 2017: Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Prices Number Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Number Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value $ 29.60 6,000 1.8 $ 29.60 6,000 $ 29.60 $ 41.24 – $56.45 53,276 2.9 $ 52.77 53,276 $ 52.77 $ 61.89 – $62.48 35,153 5.0 $ 62.31 35,153 $ 62.31 $ 70.65 – $99.52 63,188 6.5 $ 86.50 60,797 $ 87.13 $ 29.60 – $99.52 157,617 4.8 $ 67.54 $ 1,133,000 155,226 $ 67.49 $ 1,133,000 The following is a summary of the restricted stock award activity under the director plan described above for the six months ended June 30, 2017: Unvested Restricted Stock Award Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested balance at December 31, 2016 347 $ 64.89 Granted 21,198 $ 70.65 Vested (666 ) $ 67.65 Nonvested balance at June 30, 2017 20,879 $ 70.65 The total intrinsic value of all stock options exercised under all of the Company’s plans was $1,530,000 and $266,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The actual tax benefit realized for tax deductions from stock option exercises was $555,000 and $100,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The total intrinsic value of all the restricted stock vestings under all of the Company’s plans was $7,015,000 and $5,556,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The actual tax benefit realized for tax deductions from restricted stock vestings was $2,546,000 and $2,083,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. As of June 30, 2017, there was $4,631,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested stock options and $23,554,000 related to restricted stock. The stock options are expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.8 years and restricted stock over approximately 3.5 years. The total fair value of options vested was $2,492,000 and $2,495,000 during the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The fair value of the restricted stock vested was $7,015,000 and $5,556,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The weighted average per share fair value of stock options granted during the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 was $20.73 and $17.30, respectively. The fair value of the stock options granted during the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 was $2,594,000 and $3,231,000, respectively. The Company currently uses treasury stock shares for restricted stock grants and stock option exercises. The fair value of each stock option was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The key input variables used in valuing the options during the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows: Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Dividend yield None None Average risk-free interest rate 2.0 % 1.5 % Stock price volatility 27 % 30 % Estimated option term Six years Six years

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME [Abstract]
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	(8) OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME The Company’s changes in other comprehensive income for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Gross Amount Income Tax (Provision) Benefit Net Amount Gross Amount Income Tax (Provision) Benefit Net Amount Pension and postretirement benefits (a): Amortization of net actuarial loss $ 908 $ (347 ) $ 561 $ 1,345 $ (524 ) $ 821 Actuarial gains (losses) 22,014 (8,435 ) 13,579 (6,435 ) 2,465 (3,970 ) Total $ 22,922 $ (8,782 ) $ 14,140 $ (5,090 ) $ 1,941 $ (3,149 ) Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Gross Amount Income Tax (Provision) Benefit Net Amount Gross Amount Income Tax (Provision) Benefit Net Amount Pension and postretirement benefits (a): Amortization of net actuarial loss $ 2,117 $ (810 ) $ 1,307 $ 2,382 $ (912 ) $ 1,470 Actuarial gains (losses) 22,014 (8,435 ) 13,579 (6,435 ) 2,465 (3,970 ) Total $ 24,131 $ (9,245 ) $ 14,886 $ (4,053 ) $ 1,553 $ (2,500 ) (a) Actuarial gains/(losses) are amortized into costs of sales and operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expenses as appropriate. (See Note 12 – Retirement Plans)

SEGMENT DATA

SEGMENT DATA	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
SEGMENT DATA [Abstract]
SEGMENT DATA	(9) SEGMENT DATA The Company’s operations are aggregated into two reportable business segments as follows: Marine Transportation Diesel Engine Services The Company’s two reportable business segments are managed separately based on fundamental differences in their operations. The Company evaluates the performance of its segments based on the contributions to operating income of the respective segments, and before income taxes, interest, gains or losses on disposition of assets, other nonoperating income, noncontrolling interests, accounting changes, and nonrecurring items. Intersegment revenues, based on market-based pricing, of the diesel engine services segment from the marine transportation segment of $4,945,000 and $10,375,000 for the three months and six months ending June 30, 2017, respectively, and $6,167,000 and $10,551,000 for the three months and six months ending June 30, 2016, respectively, have been eliminated from the tables below. The related intersegment profit of $494,000 and $1,037,000 for the three months and six months ending June 30, 2017, respectively, and $617,000 and $1,055,000 for the three months and six months ending June 30, 2016, respectively, have also been eliminated from the tables below. The following table sets forth the Company’s revenues and profit or loss by reportable segment for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 and total assets as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Revenues: Marine transportation $ 331,265 $ 378,303 $ 674,917 $ 756,646 Diesel engine services 142,063 63,279 290,116 143,669 $ 473,328 $ 441,582 $ 965,033 $ 900,315 Segment profit (loss): Marine transportation $ 35,766 $ 72,726 $ 71,020 $ 142,521 Diesel engine services 16,355 (1,968 ) 30,089 (2,774 ) Other (9,106 ) (8,284 ) (17,096 ) (15,930 ) $ 43,015 $ 62,474 $ 84,013 $ 123,817 June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Total assets: Marine transportation $ 3,539,345 $ 3,613,951 Diesel engine services 633,583 623,268 Other 52,428 52,676 $ 4,225,356 $ 4,289,895 The following table presents the details of “Other” segment loss for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 General corporate expenses $ (4,501 ) $ (4,044 ) $ (8,017 ) $ (7,699 ) Gain (loss) on disposition of assets (139 ) 94 (40 ) 161 Interest expense (4,465 ) (4,513 ) (8,922 ) (8,706 ) Other income (expense) (1 ) 179 (117 ) 314 $ (9,106 ) $ (8,284 ) $ (17,096 ) $ (15,930 ) The following table presents the details of “Other” total assets as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands): June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 General corporate assets $ 50,681 $ 50,054 Investment in affiliates 1,747 2,622 $ 52,428 $ 52,676

TAXES ON INCOME

TAXES ON INCOME	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
TAXES ON INCOME [Abstract]
TAXES ON INCOME	(10) TAXES ON INCOME Earnings before taxes on income and details of the provision for taxes on income for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Earnings before taxes on income – United States $ 43,015 $ 62,474 $ 84,013 $ 123,817 Provision for taxes on income: Federal: Current $ 6,054 $ 6,651 $ 9,988 $ 13,091 Deferred 10,089 14,969 18,651 29,682 State and local 900 1,745 1,757 3,451 $ 17,043 $ 23,365 $ 30,396 $ 46,224 ASU 2016-09 requires that excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies related to share-based compensation be recognized as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement as discrete items in the reporting period in which they occur. This requirement was applied on a prospective basis to the tax effects of exercised or vested stock awards during the three months and six months ending June 30, 2017. This resulted in an increase in the provision for taxes on income of $852,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and a decrease of $1,238,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2017.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

EARNINGS PER SHARE	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
EARNINGS PER SHARE [Abstract]
EARNINGS PER SHARE	(11) EARNINGS PER SHARE The following table presents the components of basic and diluted earnings per share for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands, except per share amounts): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Net earnings attributable to Kirby $ 25,778 $ 38,942 $ 53,261 $ 77,041 Undistributed earnings allocated to restricted shares (196 ) (284 ) (386 ) (524 ) Income available to Kirby common stockholders - basic 25,582 38,658 52,875 76,517 Undistributed earnings allocated to restricted shares 196 284 386 524 Undistributed earnings reallocated to restricted shares (196 ) (285 ) (386 ) (524 ) Income available to Kirby common stockholders - diluted $ 25,582 $ 38,657 $ 52,875 $ 76,517 Shares outstanding: Weighted average common stock issued and outstanding 53,996 53,844 53,955 53,813 Weighted average unvested restricted stock (410 ) (393 ) (391 ) (367 ) Weighted average common stock outstanding - basic 53,586 53,451 53,564 53,446 Dilutive effect of stock options 59 75 63 59 Weighted average common stock outstanding - diluted 53,645 53,526 53,627 53,505 Net earnings per share attributable to Kirby common stockholders: Basic $ 0.48 $ 0.72 $ 0.99 $ 1.43 Diluted $ 0.48 $ 0.72 $ 0.99 $ 1.43 Certain outstanding options to purchase approximately 478,000 and 243,000 shares of common stock were excluded in the computation of diluted earnings per share as of June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, as such stock options would have been antidilutive.

RETIREMENT PLANS

RETIREMENT PLANS	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
RETIREMENT PLANS [Abstract]
RETIREMENT PLANS	(12) RETIREMENT PLANS The Company sponsors a defined benefit plan for its inland vessel personnel and shore based tankermen. The plan benefits are based on an employee’s years of service and compensation. The plan assets consist primarily of equity and fixed income securities. On April 12, 2017, the Company amended its pension plan to cease all benefit accruals for periods after May 31, 2017 for certain participants. Participants grandfathered and not impacted were those, as of the close of business on May 31, 2017, who either (a) had completed 15 years of pension service or (b) had attained age 50 and completed 10 years of pension service. Participants non-grandfathered are eligible to receive discretionary 401(k) plan contributions. The Company did not incur any one-time charges related to this amendment but the pension plan’s projected benefit obligation decreased by $33,433,000. The Company’s pension plan funding strategy is to make annual contributions in amounts equal to or greater than amounts necessary to meet minimum government funding requirements. The plan’s benefit obligations are based on a variety of demographic and economic assumptions, and the pension plan assets’ returns are subject to various risks, including market and interest rate risk, making an accurate prediction of the pension plan contribution difficult. Based on current pension plan assets and market conditions, the Company does not expect to make a contribution to its pension plan during 2017. The Company sponsors an unfunded defined benefit health care plan that provides limited postretirement medical benefits to employees who meet minimum age and service requirements, and to eligible dependents. The plan limits cost increases in the Company’s contribution to 4% per year. The plan is contributory, with retiree contributions adjusted annually. The plan eliminated coverage for future retirees as of December 31, 2011. The Company also has an unfunded defined benefit supplemental executive retirement plan (“SERP”) that was assumed in an acquisition in 1999. That plan ceased to accrue additional benefits effective January 1, 2000. The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Company’s defined benefit plans for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Pension Benefits Pension Plan SERP Three months ended June 30, Three months ended June 30, Components of net periodic benefit cost: 2017 2016 2017 2016 Service cost $ 2,865 $ 3,482 $ — $ — Interest cost 3,409 3,651 15 17 Expected return on plan assets (4,568 ) (4,251 ) — — Amortization of actuarial loss 1,069 1,525 7 6 Net periodic benefit cost $ 2,775 $ 4,407 $ 22 $ 23 Pension Benefits Pension Plan SERP Six months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, Components of net periodic benefit cost: 2017 2016 2017 2016 Service cost $ 7,192 $ 6,702 $ — $ — Interest cost 7,089 7,063 29 33 Expected return on plan assets (9,005 ) (8,404 ) — — Amortization of actuarial loss 2,438 2,743 14 13 Net periodic benefit cost $ 7,714 $ 8,104 $ 43 $ 46 The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Company’s postretirement benefit plan for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Postretirement Welfare Plan Postretirement Welfare Plan Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30 2017 2016 2017 2016 Components of net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ — $ — $ — $ — Interest cost 7 3 14 15 Amortization of actuarial gain (168 ) (186 ) (335 ) (374 ) Net periodic benefit cost $ (161 ) $ (183 ) $ (321 ) $ (359 )

CONTINGENCIES

CONTINGENCIES	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
CONTINGENCIES [Abstract]
CONTINGENCIES	(13) CONTINGENCIES On October 13, 2016, the tug Nathan E. Stewart and barge DBL 55, an articulated tank barge and tugboat unit (“ATB”), ran aground at the entrance to Seaforth Channel on Atholone Island, British Columbia. The grounding resulted in a breach of a portion of the Nathan E. Stewart’s fuel tanks causing a discharge of diesel fuel into the water. The United States Coast Guard (“USCG”) and the National Transportation Safety Board (“NTSB”) designated the Company as a party of interest in their investigation as to the cause of the incident. The Canadian authorities including Transport Canada and the Canadian Transportation Safety Board are also investigating the cause of the incident. The Company is subject to claims from third parties as well as the provincial and federal government as a result of the incident. The Company has various insurance policies covering liabilities including pollution, property, marine and general liability and believes that it has satisfactory insurance coverage for the cost of cleanup and salvage operations as well as other potential liabilities arising from the incident. On March 22, 2014, two tank barges and a towboat (the M/V Miss Susan), owned by Kirby Inland Marine, LP, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, were involved in a collision with the M/S Summer Wind on the Houston Ship Channel near Texas City, Texas. The lead tank barge was damaged in the collision resulting in a discharge of intermediate fuel oil from one of its cargo tanks. The USCG and the NTSB named the Company and the Captain of the M/V Miss Susan, as well as the owner and the pilot of the M/S Summer Wind, as parties of interest in their investigation as to the cause of the incident. Sea Galaxy Ltd is the owner of the M/S Summer Wind. The Company is participating in the natural resource damage assessment and restoration process with federal and state government natural resource trustees. The Company believes it has adequate insurance coverage for pollution, marine and other potential liabilities arising from the incident. The Company believes it has accrued adequate reserves for the incident and does not expect the incident to have a material adverse effect on its business or financial condition. The Company is also involved in various legal and other proceedings which are incidental to the conduct of its business, none of which in the opinion of management will have a material effect on the Company’s business or financial condition. Management believes that it has recorded adequate reserves and believes that it has adequate insurance coverage or has meritorious defenses for these other claims and contingencies. The Company has issued guaranties or obtained standby letters of credit and performance bonds supporting performance by the Company and its subsidiaries of contractual or contingent legal obligations of the Company and its subsidiaries incurred in the ordinary course of business. The aggregate notional value of these instruments is $13,669,000 at June 30, 2017, including $4,110,000 in letters of credit and $9,559,000 in performance bonds. All of these instruments have an expiration date within three years. The Company does not believe demand for payment under these instruments is likely and expects no material cash outlays to occur in connection with these instruments.

INVENTORIES (Tables)

INVENTORIES (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
INVENTORIES [Abstract]
Schedule of Details of Inventories	The following table presents the details of inventories as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands): June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Finished goods $ 167,638 $ 178,740 Work in process 13,203 6,662 $ 180,841 $ 185,402

STOCK AWARD PLANS (Tables)

STOCK AWARD PLANS (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation Cost Breakdown in Statement of Earnings	The compensation cost that has been charged against earnings for the Company’s stock award plans and the income tax benefit recognized in the statement of earnings for stock awards for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Compensation cost $ 3,231 $ 2,961 $ 5,924 $ 5,545 Income tax benefit $ 1,271 $ 1,110 $ 2,152 $ 2,079
Summary of Stock Option Valuation Assumptions	The key input variables used in valuing the options during the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows: Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Dividend yield None None Average risk-free interest rate 2.0 % 1.5 % Stock price volatility 27 % 30 % Estimated option term Six years Six years
Employee Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Summary of Stock Option Activity	The following is a summary of the stock option activity under the employee plan described above for the six months ended June 30, 2017: Outstanding Non- Qualified or Nonincentive Stock Awards Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2016 601,121 $ 65.33 Granted 121,908 $ 68.50 Exercised (16,910 ) $ 32.82 Outstanding at June 30, 2017 706,119 $ 66.66
Summary of Outstanding and Exercisable Stock Options	The following table summarizes information about the Company’s outstanding and exercisable stock options under the employee plan at June 30, 2017: Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Prices Number Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Number Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value $ 46.74 - $51.23 212,335 4.3 $ 50.03 108,531 $ 48.89 $ 64.89 - $74.99 424,643 4.5 $ 69.78 237,022 $ 70.31 $ 93.64 - $96.85 33,987 3.6 $ 94.31 33,987 $ 94.31 $ 101.46 - $104.37 35,154 3.7 $ 102.60 35,154 $ 102.60 $ 46.74 - $104.37 706,119 4.3 $ 66.66 $ 3,711,000 414,694 $ 69.41 $ 2,029,000
Summary of Restricted Stock Award Activity	The following is a summary of the restricted stock award activity under the employee plan described above for the six months ended June 30, 2017: Unvested Restricted Stock Award Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested balance at December 31, 2016 377,655 $ 66.14 Granted 125,545 $ 68.55 Vested (105,272 ) $ 68.92 Forfeited (1,017 ) $ 64.20 Nonvested balance at June 30, 2017 396,911 $ 66.17
Director Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Summary of Stock Option Activity	The following is a summary of the stock option activity under the director plan described above for the six months ended June 30, 2017: Outstanding Non- Qualified or Nonincentive Stock Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2016 205,429 $ 64.60 Granted 3,188 $ 70.65 Exercised (39,000 ) $ 46.23 Forfeited (12,000 ) $ 87.35 Outstanding at June 30, 2017 157,617 $ 67.54
Summary of Outstanding and Exercisable Stock Options	The following table summarizes information about the Company’s outstanding and exercisable stock options under the director plan at June 30, 2017: Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Prices Number Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Number Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value $ 29.60 6,000 1.8 $ 29.60 6,000 $ 29.60 $ 41.24 – $56.45 53,276 2.9 $ 52.77 53,276 $ 52.77 $ 61.89 – $62.48 35,153 5.0 $ 62.31 35,153 $ 62.31 $ 70.65 – $99.52 63,188 6.5 $ 86.50 60,797 $ 87.13 $ 29.60 – $99.52 157,617 4.8 $ 67.54 $ 1,133,000 155,226 $ 67.49 $ 1,133,000
Summary of Restricted Stock Award Activity	The following is a summary of the restricted stock award activity under the director plan described above for the six months ended June 30, 2017: Unvested Restricted Stock Award Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested balance at December 31, 2016 347 $ 64.89 Granted 21,198 $ 70.65 Vested (666 ) $ 67.65 Nonvested balance at June 30, 2017 20,879 $ 70.65

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Tab

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME [Abstract]
Schedule of Changes in Other Comprehensive Income	The Company’s changes in other comprehensive income for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Gross Amount Income Tax (Provision) Benefit Net Amount Gross Amount Income Tax (Provision) Benefit Net Amount Pension and postretirement benefits (a): Amortization of net actuarial loss $ 908 $ (347 ) $ 561 $ 1,345 $ (524 ) $ 821 Actuarial gains (losses) 22,014 (8,435 ) 13,579 (6,435 ) 2,465 (3,970 ) Total $ 22,922 $ (8,782 ) $ 14,140 $ (5,090 ) $ 1,941 $ (3,149 ) Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 Gross Amount Income Tax (Provision) Benefit Net Amount Gross Amount Income Tax (Provision) Benefit Net Amount Pension and postretirement benefits (a): Amortization of net actuarial loss $ 2,117 $ (810 ) $ 1,307 $ 2,382 $ (912 ) $ 1,470 Actuarial gains (losses) 22,014 (8,435 ) 13,579 (6,435 ) 2,465 (3,970 ) Total $ 24,131 $ (9,245 ) $ 14,886 $ (4,053 ) $ 1,553 $ (2,500 ) (a) Actuarial gains/(losses) are amortized into costs of sales and operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expenses as appropriate. (See Note 12 – Retirement Plans)

SEGMENT DATA (Tables)

SEGMENT DATA (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
SEGMENT DATA [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	The following table sets forth the Company’s revenues and profit or loss by reportable segment for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 and total assets as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Revenues: Marine transportation $ 331,265 $ 378,303 $ 674,917 $ 756,646 Diesel engine services 142,063 63,279 290,116 143,669 $ 473,328 $ 441,582 $ 965,033 $ 900,315 Segment profit (loss): Marine transportation $ 35,766 $ 72,726 $ 71,020 $ 142,521 Diesel engine services 16,355 (1,968 ) 30,089 (2,774 ) Other (9,106 ) (8,284 ) (17,096 ) (15,930 ) $ 43,015 $ 62,474 $ 84,013 $ 123,817 June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Total assets: Marine transportation $ 3,539,345 $ 3,613,951 Diesel engine services 633,583 623,268 Other 52,428 52,676 $ 4,225,356 $ 4,289,895
Schedule of Other Segment Reporting Information	The following table presents the details of “Other” segment loss for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 General corporate expenses $ (4,501 ) $ (4,044 ) $ (8,017 ) $ (7,699 ) Gain (loss) on disposition of assets (139 ) 94 (40 ) 161 Interest expense (4,465 ) (4,513 ) (8,922 ) (8,706 ) Other income (expense) (1 ) 179 (117 ) 314 $ (9,106 ) $ (8,284 ) $ (17,096 ) $ (15,930 ) The following table presents the details of “Other” total assets as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands): June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 General corporate assets $ 50,681 $ 50,054 Investment in affiliates 1,747 2,622 $ 52,428 $ 52,676

TAXES ON INCOME (Tables)

TAXES ON INCOME (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
TAXES ON INCOME [Abstract]
Earnings Before Taxes	Earnings before taxes on income and details of the provision for taxes on income for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Earnings before taxes on income – United States $ 43,015 $ 62,474 $ 84,013 $ 123,817 Provision for taxes on income: Federal: Current $ 6,054 $ 6,651 $ 9,988 $ 13,091 Deferred 10,089 14,969 18,651 29,682 State and local 900 1,745 1,757 3,451 $ 17,043 $ 23,365 $ 30,396 $ 46,224

EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)

EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
EARNINGS PER SHARE [Abstract]
Components of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share	The following table presents the components of basic and diluted earnings per share for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands, except per share amounts): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2017 2016 2017 2016 Net earnings attributable to Kirby $ 25,778 $ 38,942 $ 53,261 $ 77,041 Undistributed earnings allocated to restricted shares (196 ) (284 ) (386 ) (524 ) Income available to Kirby common stockholders - basic 25,582 38,658 52,875 76,517 Undistributed earnings allocated to restricted shares 196 284 386 524 Undistributed earnings reallocated to restricted shares (196 ) (285 ) (386 ) (524 ) Income available to Kirby common stockholders - diluted $ 25,582 $ 38,657 $ 52,875 $ 76,517 Shares outstanding: Weighted average common stock issued and outstanding 53,996 53,844 53,955 53,813 Weighted average unvested restricted stock (410 ) (393 ) (391 ) (367 ) Weighted average common stock outstanding - basic 53,586 53,451 53,564 53,446 Dilutive effect of stock options 59 75 63 59 Weighted average common stock outstanding - diluted 53,645 53,526 53,627 53,505 Net earnings per share attributable to Kirby common stockholders: Basic $ 0.48 $ 0.72 $ 0.99 $ 1.43 Diluted $ 0.48 $ 0.72 $ 0.99 $ 1.43

RETIREMENT PLANS (Tables)

RETIREMENT PLANS (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Company’s defined benefit plans for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Pension Benefits Pension Plan SERP Three months ended June 30, Three months ended June 30, Components of net periodic benefit cost: 2017 2016 2017 2016 Service cost $ 2,865 $ 3,482 $ — $ — Interest cost 3,409 3,651 15 17 Expected return on plan assets (4,568 ) (4,251 ) — — Amortization of actuarial loss 1,069 1,525 7 6 Net periodic benefit cost $ 2,775 $ 4,407 $ 22 $ 23 Pension Benefits Pension Plan SERP Six months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, Components of net periodic benefit cost: 2017 2016 2017 2016 Service cost $ 7,192 $ 6,702 $ — $ — Interest cost 7,089 7,063 29 33 Expected return on plan assets (9,005 ) (8,404 ) — — Amortization of actuarial loss 2,438 2,743 14 13 Net periodic benefit cost $ 7,714 $ 8,104 $ 43 $ 46
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Company’s postretirement benefit plan for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Postretirement Welfare Plan Postretirement Welfare Plan Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30 2017 2016 2017 2016 Components of net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ — $ — $ — $ — Interest cost 7 3 14 15 Amortization of actuarial gain (168 ) (186 ) (335 ) (374 ) Net periodic benefit cost $ (161 ) $ (183 ) $ (321 ) $ (359 )

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADOPTIONS

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADOPTIONS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
ASU 2016-09 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect on retained earnings	$ 8,486
Effect of change on operating activities and financing activities	$ 1,750
ASU 2015-17 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Reclassification of deferred income taxes		$ 13,604

ACQUISITIONS (Details)

ACQUISITIONS (Details)	Jul. 10, 2017USD ($)Vesselbblhp	Jun. 13, 2017USD ($)BranchState	Jun. 30, 2017
Undisclosed Competitor [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash paid for acquisition | $	$ 68,000,000
Undisclosed Competitor [Member] | Pressure Tank Barges [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of maritime vessels acquired	9
Undisclosed Competitor [Member] | Barrel Tank Barges [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of maritime vessels acquired	4
Tank barge barrel capacity | bbl	30,000
Undisclosed Competitor [Member] | Inland Towboats [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of maritime vessels acquired	3
Horsepower of inland towboats | hp	1,320
Undisclosed Competitor [Member] | Inland Tank Barges [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of maritime vessels acquired	13
Average age of property			5 years
Stewart & Stevenson LLC [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price | $		$ 710,000,000
Stock consideration through issuance of company common stock | $		$ 355,000,000
Number of branches | Branch		42
Number of states having branches | State		12

INVENTORIES (Details)

INVENTORIES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Details of inventories [Abstract]
Finished goods	$ 167,638	$ 178,740
Work in process	13,203	6,662
Inventory, Net, Total	$ 180,841	$ 185,402

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Detail

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract]
Estimated fair value of outstanding debt	$ 587,607	$ 715,330
Carrying amount of debt	$ 591,535	$ 722,802

LONG-TERM DEBT (Details)

LONG-TERM DEBT (Details) - Revolving Credit Facility [Member] - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 26, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit facility, borrowing limit			$ 850,000,000	$ 550,000,000
Credit facility, expiration date		Jun. 26, 2022
Line of credit, increase in aggregate commitments	$ 300,000,000	$ 300,000,000
Additional interest expense	$ 187,000
LIBOR [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate		1.00%

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Compensation

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Compensation Cost (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
STOCK AWARD PLANS [Abstract]
Compensation cost	$ 3,231	$ 2,961	$ 5,924	$ 5,545
Income tax benefit	$ 1,271	$ 1,110	$ 2,152	$ 2,079

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Employee Pla

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Employee Plan Stock Option Activity (Details) - Employee Stock Award Plan [Member]	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017$ / sharesshares
Stock Award Plan Information [Abstract]
Shares available for future grants (in shares)	1,741,076
Stock Options [Member]
Stock Award Plan Information [Abstract]
Term of grant	7 years
Vesting period	3 years
Outstanding Non-Qualified or Nonincentive Stock Awards [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at Period Start (in shares)	601,121
Granted (in shares)	121,908
Exercised (in shares)	(16,910)
Outstanding at Period End (in shares)	706,119
Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Outstanding at Period Start (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 65.33
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	68.50
Exercised (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	32.82
Outstanding at Period End (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 66.66
Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Outstanding Non-Qualified or Nonincentive Stock Awards [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at Period End (in shares)	0

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Employee P34

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Employee Plan Outstanding and Exercisable Options (Details) - Employee Stock Award Plan [Member] - Stock Options [Member] $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares
First Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	$ 46.74
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 51.23
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	212,335
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 3 months 18 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 50.03
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	108,531
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 48.89
Second Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	64.89
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 74.99
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	424,643
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 6 months
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 69.78
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	237,022
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 70.31
Third Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	93.64
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 96.85
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	33,987
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	3 years 7 months 6 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 94.31
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	33,987
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 94.31
Fourth Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	101.46
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 104.37
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	35,154
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	3 years 8 months 12 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 102.60
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	35,154
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 102.60
Full Exercise Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	46.74
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 104.37
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	706,119
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 3 months 18 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 66.66
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Options Outstanding | $	$ 3,711
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	414,694
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 69.41
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Options Exercisable | $	$ 2,029

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Employee P35

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Employee Plan Restricted Stock Award Activity (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017$ / sharesshares
Employee Stock Award Plan [Member]
Stock Award Plan Information [Abstract]
Shares available for future grants (in shares)	1,741,076
Employee Stock Award Plan [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Stock Award Plan Information [Abstract]
Term of grant	7 years
Vesting period	3 years
Employee Stock Award Plan [Member] | Restricted Stock [Member]
Unvested Restricted Stock Award Shares [Roll Forward]
Nonvested balance beginning of period (in shares)	377,655
Granted (in shares)	125,545
Vested (in shares)	(105,272)
Forfeited (in shares)	(1,017)
Nonvested balance end of period (in shares)	396,911
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share [Abstract]
Nonvested balance beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 66.14
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	68.55
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	68.92
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	64.20
Nonvested balance end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 66.17
Director Plan [Member]
Stock Award Plan Information [Abstract]
Shares available for future grants (in shares)	510,071
Director Plan [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Stock Award Plan Information [Abstract]
Term of grant	10 years
Director Plan [Member] | Restricted Stock [Member]
Unvested Restricted Stock Award Shares [Roll Forward]
Nonvested balance beginning of period (in shares)	347
Granted (in shares)	21,198
Vested (in shares)	(666)
Nonvested balance end of period (in shares)	20,879
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share [Abstract]
Nonvested balance beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 64.89
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	70.65
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	67.65
Nonvested balance end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 70.65
Stock Award Plan Information [Abstract]
Vesting period	6 months

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Director Pla

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Director Plan Stock Option Activity (Details) - Director Plan [Member] - Stock Options [Member]	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017$ / sharesshares
Outstanding Non-Qualified or Nonincentive Stock Awards [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at Period Start (in shares) | shares	205,429
Granted (in shares) | shares	3,188
Exercised (in shares) | shares	(39,000)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(12,000)
Outstanding at Period End (in shares) | shares	157,617
Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Outstanding at Period Start (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 64.60
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	70.65
Exercised (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	46.23
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	87.35
Outstanding at Period End (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 67.54

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Director P37

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Director Plan Outstanding and Exercisable Options (Details) - Director Plan [Member] - Stock Options [Member] $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares
First Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	$ 29.60
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	6,000
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	1 year 9 months 18 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 29.60
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	6,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 29.60
Second Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	41.24
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 56.45
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	53,276
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	2 years 10 months 24 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 52.77
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	53,276
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 52.77
Third Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	61.89
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 62.48
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	35,153
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	5 years
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 62.31
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	35,153
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 62.31
Fourth Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	70.65
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 99.52
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	63,188
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	6 years 6 months
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 86.50
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	60,797
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 87.13
Full Exercise Price Range [Member]
Outstanding and Exercisable Stock options [Abstract]
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit (in dollars per share)	29.60
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit (in dollars per share)	$ 99.52
Options Outstanding [Abstract]
Number Outstanding (in shares) | shares	157,617
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 67.54
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Options Outstanding | $	$ 1,133
Options Exercisable [Abstract]
Number Exercisable (in shares) | shares	155,226
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 67.49
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Options Exercisable | $	$ 1,133

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Director P38

STOCK AWARD PLANS, Director Plan Restricted Stock Award Activity (Details) - Director Plan [Member] - Restricted Stock [Member]	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017$ / sharesshares
Unvested Restricted Stock Award Shares [Roll Forward]
Nonvested balance beginning of period (in shares) | shares	347
Granted (in shares) | shares	21,198
Vested (in shares) | shares	(666)
Nonvested balance end of period (in shares) | shares	20,879
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share [Abstract]
Nonvested balance beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 64.89
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	70.65
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	67.65
Nonvested balance end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 70.65

STOCK AWARD PLANS, All Plans Op

STOCK AWARD PLANS, All Plans Options and Restricted Stock Award Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Stock Options [Member]
Share based Compensation Plans Combined Disclosure [Abstract]
Intrinsic value of stock options exercised	$ 1,530	$ 266
Tax benefit from stock options exercised	555	100
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards	$ 4,631
Weighted average period of recognition in years	1 year 9 months 18 days
Fair value of options vested	$ 2,492	$ 2,495
Fair value of stock options granted (in dollars per share)	$ 20.73	$ 17.30
Fair value of stock options granted	$ 2,594	$ 3,231
Fair Value Assumptions [Abstract]
Dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%
Average risk-free interest rate	2.00%	1.50%
Stock price volatility	27.00%	30.00%
Estimated option term	6 years	6 years
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share based Compensation Plans Combined Disclosure [Abstract]
Intrinsic value of restricted stock vesting	$ 7,015	$ 5,556
Tax benefit from restricted stock vesting	2,546	2,083
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards	$ 23,554
Weighted average period of recognition in years	3 years 6 months
Fair value of restricted stock vested	$ 7,015	$ 5,556

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Det

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
		Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Pension and postretirement benefits [Abstract]
Amortization of net actuarial loss, Gross Amount	[1]	$ 908	$ 1,345	$ 2,117	$ 2,382
Amortization of net actuarial loss, Income Tax (Provision) Benefit	[1]	(347)	(524)	(810)	(912)
Amortization of net actuarial loss, Net Amount	[1]	561	821	1,307	1,470
Actuarial gains (losses), Gross Amount	[1]	22,014	(6,435)	22,014	(6,435)
Actuarial gains (losses), Income Tax (Provision) Benefit	[1]	(8,435)	2,465	(8,435)	2,465
Actuarial gains (losses), Net Amount	[1]	13,579	(3,970)	13,579	(3,970)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), Gross Amount		22,922	(5,090)	24,131	(4,053)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), Income Tax (Provision) Benefit		(8,782)	1,941	(9,245)	1,553
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes		$ 14,140	$ (3,149)	$ 14,886	$ (2,500)
[1]	Actuarial gains/(losses) are amortized into costs of sales and operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expenses as appropriate. (See Note 12 - Retirement Plans)

SEGMENT DATA (Details)

SEGMENT DATA (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)Segment	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
SEGMENT DATA [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments | Segment			2
Revenues [Abstract]
Marine transportation	$ 331,265	$ 378,303	$ 674,917	$ 756,646
Diesel engine services	142,063	63,279	290,116	143,669
Total revenues	473,328	441,582	965,033	900,315
Segment profit (loss)	43,015	62,474	84,013	123,817
Total assets	4,225,356		4,225,356		$ 4,289,895
Other segment disclosures [Abstract]
Gain (loss) on disposition of assets	(139)	94	(40)	161
Interest expense	(4,465)	(4,513)	(8,922)	(8,706)
Other income (expense)	(1)	179	(117)	314
Reporting Segments [Member] | Marine Transportation [Member]
Revenues [Abstract]
Marine transportation	331,265	378,303	674,917	756,646
Segment profit (loss)	35,766	72,726	71,020	142,521
Total assets	3,539,345		3,539,345		3,613,951
Reporting Segments [Member] | Diesel Engine Services [Member]
Revenues [Abstract]
Diesel engine services	142,063	63,279	290,116	143,669
Segment profit (loss)	16,355	(1,968)	30,089	(2,774)
Total assets	633,583		633,583		623,268
Intersegment Eliminations [Member] | Marine Transportation [Member]
Revenues [Abstract]
Total revenues	4,945	6,167	10,375	10,551
Segment profit (loss)	494	617	1,037	1,055
Other [Member]
Revenues [Abstract]
Segment profit (loss)	(9,106)	(8,284)	(17,096)	(15,930)
Total assets	52,428		52,428		52,676
Other segment disclosures [Abstract]
General corporate expenses	(4,501)	(4,044)	(8,017)	(7,699)
Gain (loss) on disposition of assets	(139)	94	(40)	161
Interest expense	(4,465)	(4,513)	(8,922)	(8,706)
Other income (expense)	(1)	179	(117)	314
Loss from other segment	(9,106)	$ (8,284)	(17,096)	$ (15,930)
Details of "Other" total assets [Abstract]
General corporate assets	50,681		50,681		50,054
Investment in affiliates	1,747		1,747		2,622
Total other assets	$ 52,428		$ 52,428		$ 52,676

TAXES ON INCOME (Details)

TAXES ON INCOME (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
TAXES ON INCOME [Abstract]
Earnings before taxes on income - United States	$ 43,015	$ 62,474	$ 84,013	$ 123,817
Federal [Abstract]
Current	6,054	6,651	9,988	13,091
Deferred	10,089	14,969	18,651	29,682
State and local	900	1,745	1,757	3,451
Total Provision for taxes on income	$ 17,043	$ 23,365	30,396	46,224
ASU 2016-09 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in provision for taxes on income			$ 852	$ (1,238)

EARNINGS PER SHARE (Details)

EARNINGS PER SHARE (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
EARNINGS PER SHARE [Abstract]
Net earnings attributable to Kirby	$ 25,778	$ 38,942	$ 53,261	$ 77,041
Undistributed earnings allocated to restricted shares	(196)	(284)	(386)	(524)
Income available to Kirby common stockholders - basic	25,582	38,658	52,875	76,517
Undistributed earnings allocated to restricted shares	196	284	386	524
Undistributed earnings reallocated to restricted shares	(196)	(285)	(386)	(524)
Income available to Kirby common stockholders - diluted	$ 25,582	$ 38,657	$ 52,875	$ 76,517
Shares Outstanding [Abstract]
Weighted average common stock issued and outstanding (in shares)	53,996	53,844	53,955	53,813
Weighted average unvested restricted stock (in shares)	(410)	(393)	(391)	(367)
Weighted average common stock outstanding - basic (in shares)	53,586	53,451	53,564	53,446
Dilutive effect of stock options (in shares)	59	75	63	59
Weighted average common stock outstanding - diluted (in shares)	53,645	53,526	53,627	53,505
Net earnings per share attributable to Kirby common stockholders [Abstract]
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.48	$ 0.72	$ 0.99	$ 1.43
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.48	$ 0.72	$ 0.99	$ 1.43
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)			478	243

RETIREMENT PLANS (Details)

RETIREMENT PLANS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Components of net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Service period of participants not impacted by pension plan amendment			15 years
Age of plan participants not impacted by pension plan amendment			50 years
Service period of participants who are age fifty not impacted by pension plan amendment			10 years
Decrease in pension plan projected benefit obligation			$ (33,433)
Pension plan defined benefit plan cost increase limit percentage			4.00%
Pension Benefits [Member]
Components of net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Service cost	$ 2,865	$ 3,482	$ 7,192	$ 6,702
Interest cost	3,409	3,651	7,089	7,063
Expected return on plan assets	(4,568)	(4,251)	(9,005)	(8,404)
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss	1,069	1,525	2,438	2,743
Net periodic benefit cost	2,775	4,407	7,714	8,104
SERP [Member]
Components of net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Service cost	0	0	0	0
Interest cost	15	17	29	33
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0	0
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss	7	6	14	13
Net periodic benefit cost	22	23	43	46
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Components of net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
Service cost	0	0	0	0
Interest cost	7	3	14	15
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss	(168)	(186)	(335)	(374)
Net periodic benefit cost	$ (161)	$ (183)	$ (321)	$ (359)

CONTINGENCIES (Details)

CONTINGENCIES (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 22, 2014VesselTankBarge
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Issued guaranties	$ 13,669
Maximum [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantor obligations, expiration period	3 years
Performance Bonds [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Issued guaranties	$ 9,559
Collision with M/S Summer Wind [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of vessels involved in collision | Vessel		3
Number of vessels damaged in collision resulting in fuel oil discharge | TankBarge		1
Letters Of Credit [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Issued guaranties	$ 4,110