| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 23, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 23, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | PITNEY BOWES INC /DE/ |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-03579 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 06-0495050 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3001 SUMMER STREET |
| Entity Address, City or Town | STAMFORD |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CT |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 06926-0700 |
| City Area Code | 203 |
| Local Phone Number | 356-5000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000078814 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | PBI |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
