Text Block [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]
Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract]
Partners Capital And Distributions [Table]
Partners Capital And Distributions [Table]
Partners Capital And Distributions [Table]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Partners Capital And Distributions [Line Items]
Partners Capital And Distributions [Line Items]
Partners Capital And Distributions [Line Items]
Net income
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Other comprehensive income/(loss):
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Changes in defined benefit plans, net of tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax
Change in derivative financial instruments, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Other comprehensive loss/(income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income attributable to Sonoco
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Multiemployer Plan, Plan Information [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan, Plan Information [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan, Plan Information [Domain]
Multiemployer Plan, Plan Information [Domain]
Plan Changes and Amendments
Plan Amendments [Member]
Plan amendments.
Plan Amendments 2010
Plan Amendments Two Thousand Ten [Member]
Plan Amendments 2010.
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Domain]
Inactive Plan Investment Portfolio
In Active Plans [Member]
In Active Plans [Member]
Active Plan Investment Portfolio
Active Plans [Member]
Active Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain]
Foreign Pension Plan
Foreign Pension Plan [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member]
Retiree Health and Life Insurance Plans
Retiree Health And Life Insurance Plans [Member]
Retiree health and life insurance plans.
Retirement plans
Retirement Plans [Member]
Retirement plans.
Sonoco Investment and Retirement Plan
Sonoco Investment And Retirement Plan [Member]
Sonoco investment and retirement plan.
U.S. Defined Benefit Plans
United States Postretirement Benefit Plan of US Entity [Member]
United Kingdom Defined Benefit Plan
Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member]
Canada Defined Benefit Plan
Other Pension Plan [Member]
Sonoco Savings Plan
Sonoco Savings Plan [Member]
Sonoco Savings Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Equity securities
Equity Securities [Member]
Debt Securities
Debt Securities [Member]
Alternative
Alternative [Member]
Alternative [Member]
Cash and short-term investments
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Defined benefit plans, accumulated benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Projected benefit obligation (PBO) with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation
Accumulated benefit obligation (ABO) with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Fair value of plan assets for pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets
Percentage of retiree health liability
Percentage Of Retiree Health Liability
Percentage of retiree health liability.
Increasing the assumed trend rate for healthcare costs by one percentage point would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Increasing the assumed trend rate for healthcare costs by one percentage point would increase total service and interest cost compo
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components
Decreasing the assumed trend rate for healthcare costs by one percentage point would decrease the APBO
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Decreasing the assumed trend rate for healthcare costs by one percentage point would decrease total service and interest cost component
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components
Reduction in accumulated postretirement benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment on Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Amortization period of accumulated postretirement benefit obligation
Amortization Period Of Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Amortization period of accumulated postretirement benefit obligation.
Total postretirement benefit plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets
Current target allocation for investment portfolio
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations
Projected contributions to retirement plan
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year
Contribution rate of annual eligible earnings under companies investment and retirement plan
Contribution Rate Of Annual Eligible Earnings Under Companies Investment And Retirement Plan
Contribution rate of annual eligible earnings under companies investment and retirement plan.
Contribution rate of annual eligible earnings in excess of social security wage base under companies investment and retirement plan
Contribution Rate Of Annual Eligible Earnings In Excess Of Social Security Wage Base Under Companies Investment And Retirement Plan
Contribution rate of annual eligible earnings in excess of social security wage base under companies investment and retirement plan.
Age limit of participants
Age Limit Of Participants
Age limit of participants.
Companies expense related to the plan
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized
Cash contributions to the SIRP
Pension Contributions
Defined contribution plan contribution percentage, Minimum
Defined Contribution Plan Contribution Percentage Minimum
Defined contribution plan contribution percentage minimum.
Defined contribution plan contribution percentage, Maximum
Defined Contribution Plan Contribution Percentage Maximum
Defined Contribution Plan Contribution Percentage Maximum.
Percentage of participants modified matching contribution to be matched towards safe Harbor under companies savings plan
Percentage Of Participants Modified Matching Contribution To Be Matched Towards Safe Harbor Under Companies Savings Plan
Percentage of participants modified matching contribution to be matched towards safe Harbor under companies savings plan.
Modify matching employee contribution to profit sharing under companies savings plan
Modify Matching Employee Contribution To Profit Sharing Under Companies Savings Plan
Modify matching employee contribution to profit sharing under companies savings plan.
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Title of Individual [Axis]
Title of Individual [Axis]
Relationship to Entity [Domain]
Relationship to Entity [Domain]
Executives and Directors
Executives and Directors [Member]
Executives and Directors [Member]
Vesting [Axis]
Vesting [Axis]
Vesting [Domain]
Vesting [Domain]
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three [Member]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Vested
Vested [Member]
Vested [Member]
Nonvested
Nonvested [Member]
Nonvested [Member]
Two Thousand And Twelve Plan
Two Thousand And Twelve Plan [Member]
Two Thousand And Twelve Plan [Member]
Two Thousand and Eleven
Two Thousand and Eleven [Member]
Two Thousand and Eleven [Member]
Two Thousand and Thirteen
Two Thousand and Thirteen [Member]
Two Thousand and Thirteen [Member]
Two Thousand and Fourteen
Two Thousand and Fourteen [Member]
Two Thousand and Fourteen [Member]
Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis]
Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis]
Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain]
Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain]
After Two Thousand Fifteen
After Two Thousand Fifteen [Member]
After Two Thousand Fifteen [Member]
Prior Two Thousand Fifteen
Prior Two Thousand Fifteen [Member]
Prior Two Thousand Fifteen [Member]
After 2006
After Two Thousand Six [Member]
After 2006.
After Two Thousand Fourteen
After Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] [Domain]
After Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] [Domain]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Equity Award [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Restricted Stock Awards
Restricted Stock [Member]
Deferred Compensation Plans
Deferred Compensation, Share-based Payments [Member]
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]
Stock Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Sars
Stock Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Sars [Member]
Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights (SARS).
Performance Shares
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares of common stock issued
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized
Number of additional shares authorized
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Additional Shares Authorized
Minimum vesting period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Shares available for grant
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Compensation cost for share-based payment arrangements
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Related tax benefit recognized in net income
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense
Additional net excess tax benefit realized
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities
Expected life of SARs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Weighted-average period
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Weighted-average fair value of awards granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Fair market value of the Company’s stock used to calculate intrinsic value (per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Exercise Price
Aggregate intrinsic value of options and SARs exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value
Cash received on option exercises
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Vesting at end of 4 years, if performance targets are not met
Percentage Of Minimum Number Of Units Awarded And Vest
Percentage of minimum number of units awarded and vest.
Vesting at end of 5 years, if performance targets are not met
Remaining Percentage Of Minimum Number Of Units Awarded And Vest
Remaining percentage of minimum number of units awarded and vest.
Total performance contingent restricted stock units vested , Minimum shares
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Potential Vest Minimum
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity Instruments other than options potential vest minimum.
Total performance contingent restricted stock units, Maximum
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Potential Vest Maximum
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options potential vest, maximum.
Numbers of options to be granted during the year
Share-based Compensation, Numbers of Option to be Granted During the Year
Share-based Compensation, Numbers of Option to be Granted During the Year
Stock units qualified for vesting
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Accelerated Vesting, Number
Fair value of vested options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value
Options vested, (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Number of Shares
Noncash stock-based compensation associated performance contingent restricted stock units
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Non Cash Compensation
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options non cash compensation.
Restricted stock units outstanding
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Vested And Nonvested Number
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options vested and nonvested number.
Restricted stock units outstanding vested
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Vested Number
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options vested number.
Performance contingent restricted stock units vested, shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Stock unit qualified for vesting and vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Compensation deferrals in current Year
Compensation Deferrals In Current Year
Compensation Deferrals in Current Year.
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Retirement Plans
Pension Plan [Member]
Retiree Health and Life Insurance Plans
Postretirement Life Insurance [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Amortization of net transition obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Transition Obligations (Assets)
Amortization of prior service cost / (credit)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Amortization of net actuarial loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)
Effect of settlement loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements
Other
Defined Benefit Plan, Other Costs
Net periodic benefit cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Asset Impairment
Restructuring, Impairment, and Other Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Disclosure Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Company Held Significant Investment [Abstract]
Disclosure - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Company Held Significant Investment [Abstract]
Noncontrolling Interest [Table]
Noncontrolling Interest [Table]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
RTS Packaging JVCO
Rts Packaging Jvco [Member]
RTS Packaging JVCO.
Cascades Conversion, Inc.
Cascades Conversion Inc [Member]
Cascades conversion, inc.
Cascades Sonoco, Inc.
Cascades Sonoco Inc [Member]
Cascades Sonoco, inc.
Showa Products Company Ltd.
Showa Products Company Ltd [Member]
Showa products company Ltd.
Conitex Sonoco Holding BVI Ltd.
Conitex Sonoco Holding Bvi Ltd [Member]
Conitex Sonoco Holding BVI Ltd.
Weidenhammer New Packaging LLC
Weidenhammer New Packaging LLC [Member]
Weidenhammer New Packaging LLC [Member]
Myrpress Group LLC
Myrpress Group LLC [Member]
Myrpress Group LLC [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Ownership Interest Percentage
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Expected dividend yield
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Expected stock price volatility
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate
Risk-free interest rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table]
Restructuring Plan [Axis]
Restructuring Plan [Axis]
Restructuring Plan [Domain]
Restructuring Plan [Domain]
2015 Actions
Actions Two Thousand Fifteen [Member]
Actions two thousand fifteen.
2014 Actions
Actions Two Thousand Fourteen [Member]
Actions two thousand fourteen.
2013 and Earlier Actions
Actions Two Thousand Thirteen And Earlier [Member]
Actions two thousand thirteen and earlier.
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Costs
Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block]
Restructuring And Asset Impairment Charges Table
Restructuring And Asset Impairment Charges Table [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of restructuring and asset impairment charges.
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block]
Other Asset Impairment
Other Asset Impairment [Member]
Other Asset Impairment [Member]
Restructuring/Asset impairment charges
Restructuring, Settlement and Impairment Provisions
Income tax benefit
Restructuring Income Tax Expense Benefit
Income tax expense (benefit).
Impact of noncontrolling interests, net of tax
Restructuring Costs Attributable To Noncontrolling Interests Net Of Tax
Costs attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax.
Total impact of restructuring/asset impairment charges, net of tax
Restructuring Asset Impairment Charges Net Of Tax
Total impact of restructuring asset impairment charges, net of tax.
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Summary of Initial Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed at Acquisition Date
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Common stocks
Common Stock [Member]
Capital in Excess of Stated Value
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings [Member]
Non-controlling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Beginning Balance
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Beginning Balance, Shares
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Translation gain (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Defined benefit plan adjustment
Derivative financial instruments
Dividends
Dividends, Common Stock
Issuance of stock awards
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Issuance of stock awards, Shares
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Shares repurchased
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value
Shares repurchased, Shares
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Stock-based compensation
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Non-controlling interest from acquisition
Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination
Ending Balance
Ending Balance, Shares
Total Recognized Amounts in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Noncurrent assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent
Current liabilities
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities
Noncurrent liabilities
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Net liability
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Carrying Amounts and Fair Values of Financial Instruments
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
Net Positions of Foreign Contracts
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block]
Net Positions of Other Derivatives Contract
Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]
Location and Fair Values of Derivative Instruments
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Effect of Derivative Instruments on Financial Performance
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Patents
Patents [Member]
Customer lists
Customer Lists [Member]
Trade names
Trade Names [Member]
Proprietary technology
Patented Technology [Member]
Land use rights
Use Rights [Member]
Other
Intangible Assets Other [Member]
Other.
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Other Intangible Assets, Gross:
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Other Intangible Assets, gross
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Accumulated Amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Other Intangible Assets, Net
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Estimated costs for completion of capital additions under construction
Estimated Costs For Completion Of Capital Additions Under Construction
Estimated costs for completion of capital additions under construction.
Depreciation and depletion expense
Depreciation
Future minimum rentals under noncancelable operating leases in 2016
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Future minimum rentals under noncancelable operating leases in 2017
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Future minimum rentals under noncancelable operating leases in 2018
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
Future minimum rentals under noncancelable operating leases in 2019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
Future minimum rentals under noncancelable operating leases in 2020
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Future minimum rentals under noncancelable operating leases, thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Total rental expense under operating leases
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Acquisitions in 2014
Acquisitions in Twenty Fourteen [Member]
Acquisitions in Twenty Fourteen [Member]
Weidenhammer Packaging Group
Weidenhammer Packaging Group [Member]
Weidenhammer Packaging Group [Member]
Business Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segment [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Consumer Packaging
Consumer Packaging Segment [Member]
Consumer packaging segment.
Paper And Industrial Converted Products Segment
Paper And Industrial Converted Products Segment [Member]
Paper and industrial converted products segment.
Packaging Services
Packaging Services [Member]
Packaging Services [Member]
Blowmolding
Blowmolding [Member]
Blowmolding [Member]
Thermoforming
Paper and Industrial Converted Products - Europe Reporting Unit [Member]
Paper and Industrial Converted Products - Europe Reporting Unit [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, acquired during period
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments
Goodwill, dispositions
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit
Goodwill, other changes
Goodwill, Other Changes
Goodwill
Goodwill
Intangibles acquired
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill
Intangible assets, useful life (in years)
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Aggregate amortization expenses
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization expense on intangible assets in 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
Amortization expense on intangible assets in 2017
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Amortization expense on intangible assets in 2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Amortization expense on intangible assets in 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Amortization expense on intangible assets in 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Display and Packaging
Display and Packaging [Member]
Display and Packaging segment.
Paper And Industrial Converted Products
Paper And Industrial Converted Products [Member]
Paper and industrial converted products.
Protective Solutions
Protective Packaging [Member]
Protective packaging.
Corporate
Corporate Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring, asset impairment and acquisition-related costs
Restructuring Asset Impairment And Acquisition Related Costs
Restructuring, asset impairment and acquisition-related costs.
Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Data
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Net Sales
Revenue, Net
Gross profit
Gross Profit
Restructuring/Asset impairment charges
Net income attributable to Sonoco
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Net income attributable to Sonoco:
Net Income [Abstract]
Net income attributable to Sonoco.
Basic (usd per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted (usd per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Cash dividends (usd per share)
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Market price - high
Common Stock Market Price High
Common stock market price high.
Market price - low
Common Stock Market Price Low
Common stock market price low.
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Paper Mill
Paper Mill [Member]
Paper Mill [Member]
Metal Ends and Closures Business
Metal Ends and Closures Business [Member]
Metal Ends and Closures Business [Member]
Recycling Business
Recycling Business [Member]
Recycling Business [Member]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Segment, Geographical [Domain]
Geographical [Domain]
France
FRANCE
United States
UNITED STATES
Canada
CANADA
Germany
GERMANY
Russia
RUSSIAN FEDERATION
United Kingdom
UNITED KINGDOM
Ohio
OHIO
Brazil
BRAZIL
Restructuring Type [Axis]
Restructuring Type [Axis]
Type of Restructuring [Domain]
Type of Restructuring [Domain]
Lease Termination Fees
Contract Termination [Member]
Cancellation Fees for Assets under Contract
Cancellation Fees for Assets under Contract [Member]
Cancellation Fees for Assets under Contract [Member]
Future additional charges expected in connection with previous restructuring
Effect on Future Cash Flows, Amount
Number of facilities closed
Number of Facilities Closed
Number of Facilities Closed
Elimination of positions due to realign in cost structure
Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated, Inception to Date
Gain on sale of business
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business
Number of production facilities sold
Number of Production Facilities Sold
Number of Production Facilities Sold
Proceeds from sales of business
Proceeds from Sales of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets
Net fixed assets
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment
Inventory
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Inventory
Goodwill
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill
Intangible assets
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets
Liabilities assumed by the acquiring company
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities
Income tax benefit
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Other asset impairments
Asset Impairment Charges
Goodwill impairment loss
Goodwill, Impairment Loss
Impairment of intangible assets (excluding goodwill)
Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Other asset impairment charges
Other Asset Impairment Charges
Other costs
Other Restructuring Costs
Future pretax charges
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Restructuring Charges
Foreign currency exchange rate, remeasurement
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate, Remeasurement
Foreign currency exchange rate, translation
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate, Translation
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Financial Segment Information
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Restructuring Asset Impairment and Acquisition Related Costs
Restructuring Asset Impairment And Acquisition Related Costs Table [Text Block]
Restructuring asset impairment and acquisition related costs.
Sales to Unaffiliated Customers and Long-Lived Assets by Geographic Region
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block]
Equity [Abstract]
Numerator:
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Denominator:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Weighted average common shares outstanding
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Diluted outstanding shares
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Per common share:
Earning Per Share [Abstract]
Earning per share.
Pretax income
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Domestic
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic
Foreign
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign
Income before income taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest
Current
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
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)
Total taxes
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative, Name [Domain]
Derivative, Name [Domain]
Natural gas swaps
Natural Gas Swaps [Member]
Natural gas swaps.
Aluminum Swaps
Aluminum Swaps [Member]
Aluminum swaps.
Containers
Containers [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Approximate amount of commodity covered by swap contracts outstanding in MMBTUs
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Energy Measure
Anticipated usage percentage of natural gas covered by a swap contract for the first succeeding fiscal year
Anticipated Usage Percentage Of Natural Gas Covered By Swap Contract Year One
Anticipated usage percentage of natural gas covered by swap contract year one.
Anticipated usage percentage of natural gas covered by swap contract
Anticipated Usage Percentage Of Natural Gas Covered By Swap Contract Year Two
Anticipated usage percentage of natural gas covered by swap contract year two.
Approximate amount of commodity covered by swap contracts outstanding in metric tons
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Mass
Anticipated usage percentage of aluminum covered by a swap contract for the first succeeding fiscal year
Anticipated Usage Percentage Of Aluminum Covered By Swap Contract First Succeeding Fiscal Year
Anticipated Usage Percentage of Aluminum Covered by Swap Contract First Succeeding Fiscal Year.
Anticipated usage percentage of short tons covered by a swap contract for the first succeeding fiscal year
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Percent of Required Need, Coverage
Fair value of commodity cash flow hedges
Price Risk Cash Flow Hedge Derivative, at Fair Value, Net
Commodity gain (loss) expected to be reclassified to the income statement during the next 12 months
Price Risk Cash Flow Hedge Unrealized Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months
Fair value of foreign currency cash flow hedges
Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net
Cash flow hedge gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss and netted against the carrying value of the assets
Cash Flow Hedge Gain Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss And Netted Against Carrying Value Of Assets
Cash flow hedge gain reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss and netted against the carrying value of the assets.
Foreign currency gain (loss) expected to be reclassified to the income statement during the next 12 months
Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months
Total fair value of other derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments at Fair Value, Net
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]
Gross unrecognized tax benefits, Beginning Balance
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Increases in prior years' unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Decreases in prior years' unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Increases in current year unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions
Decreases in unrecognized tax benefits from the lapse of statutes of limitations
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations
Settlements
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities
Gross unrecognized tax benefits, Ending Balance
Company Held Significant Investment
Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
LIBOR
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Line of Credit
Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commercial paper program
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Number of banks in contract
Number of Banks in Contract
Number of Banks in Contract
Term of the term loan
Debt Instrument, Term
Repayments of debt
Repayments of Debt
Variable basis points
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate
Unused short-term lines of credit
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity
Debt maturing, 2016
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
Debt maturing, 2017
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
Debt maturing, 2018
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
Debt maturing, 2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
Debt maturing, 2020
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Disclosure Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Additional Information [Abstract]
Disclosure Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Additional Information [Abstract]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis]
Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis]
Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain]
Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain]
Multi-Vendor Supply Chain Finance Arrangement
Multi-Vendor Supply Chain Finance Arrangement [Member]
Multi-Vendor Supply Chain Finance Arrangement [Member]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Net sales
Sales Revenue, Net [Member]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Domain]
Investment, Name [Domain]
Chilean tube
Chilean Tube [Member]
Chilean tube.
Finland Small Recycling Business
Finland Small Recycling Business [Member]
Finland Small Recycling Business [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Equipment
Equipment [Member]
Buildings
Building [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Carrying value of equity investments
Equity Method Investments
Percentage ownership of investments accounted for under the cost method
Largest customer revenue percentage
Companys Consolidated Revenue Percent
Company's consolidated revenue percent.
Single customer percentage of receivable
Consolidated Trade Accounts Receivable Percent
Consolidated trade accounts receivable percent.
Second largest customer revenue percentage
Second Largest Customer Revenue Percentage
Second largest customer revenue percentage.
Consolidated annual sales, percent
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Research and development costs
Research and Development Expense
Percentage of LIFO Inventory
Percentage of LIFO Inventory
LIFO inventory amount
LIFO Inventory Amount
Property Plant and Equipment, useful life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other assets
Other Assets [Member]
Graffo Paranaense de Embalagens S/A
Graffo Paranaense de Embalagens S/A [Member]
Graffo Paranaense de Embalagens S/A [Member]
Wood Plug Business of Smith Family Companies Inc.
Wood Plug Business of Smith Family Companies Inc. [Member]
Wood Plug Business of Smith Family Companies Inc. [Member]
Dalton Paper Products
Dalton Paper Products [Member]
Dalton Paper Products [Member]
Imagelinx
Imagelinx [Member]
Imagelinx [Member]
Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions
Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]
Tegrant Holding Corporation
Tegrant Holding Corporation [Member]
Tegrant holding corporation.
Customer relationships
Customer Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of acquisitions during period
Number Of Acquisitions During Period
Number of acquisitions during period.
Acquisition cost of entity
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross
Percentage of controlling asset acquired
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired
Entity number of employees
Entity Number of Employees
Expected annual revenue
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Total consideration
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred
Cash paid during acquisition
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Consideration transferred, liabilities incurred
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred
Net assets, excluding intangibles
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Assets, Excluding Intangibles
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Assets, Excluding Intangibles
Cash acquired from acquisition
Cash Acquired from Acquisition
Noncontrolling interest acquired
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncontrolling Interest
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncontrolling Interest
Contingent purchase liability
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability
Customer lists
Finite-Lived Customer Lists, Gross
Non-compete agreement
Finite-Lived Noncompete Agreements, Gross
Contingent consideration, period of payment
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Period of Payment
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Period of Payment
Number of employees in facilities operated
Minimum Number Of Employees In Facilities Operated By Headquarter
Minimum number of employees in facilities operated by headquarter.
Number of facilities operated
Number Of Facilities Operated By Headquarter
Number Of Facilities Operated By Headquarter
Debt and other liabilities assumed
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Debt and Other Liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Debt and Other Liabilities
Average expected life (in years)
Expected value of goodwill to be tax deductible
Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount
Long-term deferred income tax liabilities, period increase
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities
Accrued and other liabilities, period increase
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Assets
Property, plant and equipment, period decrease
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Goodwill, period increase
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles
Acquisition-related costs
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Types of Financial Instruments [Domain]
Financial Instruments [Domain]
Mutual funds
Mutual Funds [Member]
Mutual Funds.
Common collective trust
Common Collective Trust [Member]
Common Collective Trust [Member]
Fixed income securities
Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Short-term investments
Short-term Investments [Member]
Hedge fund of funds
Hedge Fund Of Funds [Member]
Hedge Fund Of Funds [Member]
Real estate funds
Real Estate Funds [Member]
Cash and accrued income
Cash And Accrued Income [Member]
Cash and Accrued Income.
Forward contracts
Forward Contracts [Member]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Axis]
Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain]
Asset Class [Domain]
Commodity contracts
Commodity Contract [Member]
Foreign exchange contracts
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net
Deferred Compensation Plan Assets
Trading Securities
Share-based Compensation Plans
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Debt Instruments
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
Changes in Goodwill
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Summary of Other Intangible Assets
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
2016
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months
2017
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two
2018
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three
2019
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four
2020
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five
2021-2025
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Percentage of postretirement benefit plan assets comprised of pension plan assets, more than
Percentage Of Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets In Companys Pension Plan Assets
Percentage of postretirement benefit plan assets in company's pension plan assets.
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Gains and losses on cash flow hedges
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member]
Defined benefit pension items
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Cost of sales
Cost of Goods and Services Sold
Selling, general, and administrative
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Tax benefit
Income before equity in earnings of affiliates
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net actuarial loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss)
Prior service cost/(credit)
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Net transition obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Transition Obligation (Asset)
Expected amortization of defined benefit plan amounts from AOCI in next fiscal year
Defined Benefit Plan, Amount to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Next Fiscal Year
Long-term debt, Carrying Amount
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Long-term debt, Fair Value
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Book Overdrafts and Cash Pooling
Cash and Cash Equivalents Disclosure [Text Block]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Operating Segments
Operating Segments [Member]
Consolidation, Eliminations
Consolidation, Eliminations [Member]
Total Revenue
Revenues [Abstract]
Total Revenue
Revenues
Intersegment Sales
Intersegment Revenues [Abstract]
Intersegment Revenues [Abstract]
Sales to Unaffiliated Customers
Revenue, Net [Abstract]
Sales to Unaffiliated Customers
Income Before Income Taxes
Total before tax
Identifiable Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Identifiable Assets
Assets
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Cost of Goods Sold, Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization [Abstract]
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Capital Expenditures
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment [Abstract]
Capital Expenditures
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Position [Axis]
Position [Axis]
Position [Domain]
Position [Domain]
Long
Long [Member]
Short
Short [Member]
Net purchase / (sales) position of derivatives
Derivative, Notional Amount
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table]
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain]
Outstanding A/P check
Outstanding Accounts Payable Checks [Member]
Outstanding accounts payable checks.
Outstanding payroll checks
Outstanding Payroll Checks [Member]
Outstanding payroll checks.
ERROR in label resolution.
Notional Pooling Arrangement [Member]
Notional Pooling Arrangement [Member]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Outstanding A/P checks
Bank Overdrafts
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Summary of Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Adjustments arising during the period:
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax, [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss/(gain)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax
Prior service cost/(credit)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period, before Tax
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments
Reversal of amortization:
Defined Benefit Plan, Amount to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Next Fiscal Year [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss
Projected Defined Benefit Plan Amortization Of Gains Losses
Projected defined benefit plan amortization of gains losses.
Prior service cost/(credit)
Projected Defined Benefit Plan Amortization Of Prior Service Cost Credit
Projected defined benefit plan amortization of prior service cost credit.
Net transition obligation
Projected Defined Benefit Plan Amortization Of Transition Obligations Assets
Projected defined benefit plan amortization of transition obligations assets.
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss/(income)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), before Tax
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive loss/(income)
Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Other Comprehensive Loss Income
Defined benefit plan amounts recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive loss income.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss and Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Tax
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]
Depreciation
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Intangibles
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Gross deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Retiree health benefits
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits
Foreign loss carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign
U.S. Federal loss carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic
Capital loss carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards
Employee benefits
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Benefits
Accrued liabilities and other
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities
Gross deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Provision for Taxes on Income
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Deferred Tax Liabilities/(Assets)
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate to Actual Consolidated Tax Expense
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Gross Amounts of Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Exercise Price Range [Axis]
Exercise Price Range [Axis]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain]
$23.69 - $31.88
Range One [Member]
Range one.
$32.03 - $36.34
Range Two [Member]
Range two.
$41.58 - $46.16
Range Three [Member]
Range three.
$23.69 - $46.16
Range Four [Member]
Range four.
Range of exercise prices, vested and expected to vest, exercise price, minimum
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit
Range of exercise prices, vested and expected to vest, exercise price, maximum
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit
Range of exercise prices, options, exercisable, exercise price, minimum
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Exercisable Exercise Price Minimum
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award options exercisable exercise price minimum.
Range of exercise prices, options, exercisable, exercise price, maximum
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Exercisable Exercise Price Maximum
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award options exercisable exercise price maximum.
Options and SAR's, vested and expected to vest, number outstanding
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number
Options and SAR's, vested and expected to vest, weighted-average remaining contractual life
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Options and SAR's, vested and expected to vest, weighted-average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options and SAR's, vested and expected to vest, aggregate intrinsic value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Options and SAR's, number exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Options and SAR's, weighted-average remaining contractual life
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Options and SAR's, weighted-average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options and SAR's, aggregate intrinsic value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedges
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Net purchase / (sales) position of derivatives
U.S.
U.K.
Total
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations
Equity method investments
Equity Method Investments [Member]
Cumulative tax benefit on derivative financial instruments
Cumulative Tax Benefit On Derivative Financial Instruments
Cumulative tax benefit on derivative financial instruments.
Decrease (increase) in tax benefit on derivative financial instruments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax
Cumulative tax benefit on defined benefit plans
Cumulative Tax Benefit On Defined Benefit Plans
Cumulative tax benefit on defined benefit plans.
Decrease (increase) in tax benefit on defined benefit plans
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax
Defined benefit plan adjustment
Two Thousand and Eleven [Member]
Performance Contingent Restricted Stock Units And Restricted Stock Units
Performance Contingent Restricted Stock Units And Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Performance Contingent Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Units.
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value
Beginning Balance
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Granted
Performance adjustments
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Period Increase (Decrease)
Vested
Converted
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Converted In Period
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, equity instruments other than options, converted in period.
Dividend equivalents
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Dividend Equivalents In Period
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, equity instruments other than options, dividend equivalents in period.
Ending Balance
Beginning Balance, weighted-average grant date 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 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
Performance adjustments, weighted-average grant date fair value
hare-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Performance Adjustment
hare-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Performance Adjustment
Converted, weighted-average grant date fair value
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Converted In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, equity instruments other than options, converted in period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value.
Dividend equivalents, weighted-average grant date fair value
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Dividend Equivalents In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, equity instruments other than options, dividend equivalents in period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value.
Ending Balance, weighted-average grant date fair value
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Change in Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at January 1
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation
Plan participant contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants
Plan amendments
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments
Actuarial loss/(gain)
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)
Benefits paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid
Impact of foreign exchange rates
Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Gain (Loss)
Acquisitions
Defined Benefit Plan, Business Combinations and Acquisitions, Benefit Obligation
Other
Defined Benefit Plan, Other Changes
Benefit obligation at December 31
Change in Plan Assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1
Actual return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets
Company contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
Impact of foreign exchange rates
Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Plan Assets
Expenses paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Administration Expenses
Fair value of plan assets at December 31
Funded status of the plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowances for trade accounts receivable
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Preferred stock, shares authorized
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred stock, shares issued
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued
Preferred stock, shares outstanding
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common stock, shares outstanding
Severance and Termination Benefits
Severance And Termination Benefits [Member]
Severance and termination benefits.
Asset Impairment / Disposal of Assets
Asset Impairment Disposal Of Assets [Member]
Asset impairment disposal of assets.
Other Costs
Other Costs [Member]
Other costs.
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Liability, beginning balance
Restructuring Reserve, Current
Restructuring-related charges
Restructuring Charges
Adjustments
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment
Cash receipts/(payments)
Payments for Restructuring
Asset write downs/disposals
Restructuring Reserve Asset Write Offs
Restructuring reserve asset write offs.
Foreign currency translation
Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment
Liability, ending balance
Foreign Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Discount Rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate
Rate of Compensation Increase
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount Rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate
Expected long-term rate of return
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets
Rate of Compensation Increase
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase
Europe
Europe [Member]
All other
Other Countries [Member]
Other countries.
Sales to Unaffiliated Customers
Sales To Unaffiliated Customers And Long Lived Assets By Geographic Region [Abstract]
Sales to unaffiliated customers and long-lived assets by geographic region.
Long-lived Assets
Entity Wide Disclosure On Geographic Areas Long Lived Assets [Abstract]
Entity Wide Disclosure On Geographic Areas Long Lived Assets [Abstract]
Long-lived Assets
Long-Lived Assets
Earnings Per Share
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Shares Not Included in Computations of Diluted Income Per Share
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]
Corporate
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Restructuring charge
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost
Total incurred to date
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date
Estimated total cost
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost
Business Acquisition Actual Revenue And Pre Tax Income Loss [Line Items]
Business Acquisition Actual Revenue And Pre Tax Income Loss [Line Items]
Business Acquisition Actual Revenue And Pre Tax Income Loss [Line Items]
Trade accounts receivable
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables
Other receivables
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other
Inventories
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory
Prepaid expenses
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets
Property, plant and equipment
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles
Other assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Assets
Payables to suppliers
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable
Accrued expenses and other
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other
Total debt
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt
Pension and other postretirement benefits
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Deferred income taxes, net
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent
Noncontrolling interests
Total net assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Selected Quarterly Financial Data
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table 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
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
LIFO
Inventory Valuation Reserve [Member]
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Opening Balance
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Charged to Costs and Expenses
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense
Charged to Other
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts
Deductions
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
Closing Balance
Net actuarial loss
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax
Prior service cost/(credit)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Net transition obligation
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Transition Assets (Obligations), before Tax
Amount in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Land
Land
Timber resources
Timber and Timberlands
Buildings
Buildings and Improvements, Gross
Machinery and equipment
Machinery and Equipment, Gross
Construction in progress
Construction in Progress, Gross
Property, plant and equipment, gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Accumulated depreciation and depletion
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Prepaid expenses
Prepaid Expenses [Member]
Prepaid expenses.
Accrued expenses and other
Accrued Expenses And Other [Member]
Accrued expenses and other.
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives as hedging instruments, assets
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Derivatives hedging instrument, liabilities
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Assets
Current Assets
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowances of $11,069 in 2015 and $8,547 in 2014
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Other receivables
Other Receivables
Inventories
Inventory, Net [Abstract]
Finished and in process
Inventory, Finished Goods and Work in Process, Net of Reserves
Materials and supplies
Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Net of Reserves
Prepaid expenses
Prepaid Expense, Current
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current
Total Current Assets
Assets, Current
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Other Intangible Assets, Net
Long-term Deferred Income Taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent
Other Assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total Assets
Liabilities and Equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current Liabilities
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Payable to suppliers
Accounts Payable, Current
Accrued expenses and other
Accrued Liabilities, Current
Accrued wages and other compensation
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt
Debt, Current
Accrued taxes
Accrued Income Taxes, Current
Total Current Liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term Debt
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Deferred Income Taxes
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies
Sonoco Shareholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Preferred shares, no par value Authorized 300,000 shares 0 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Common shares, no par value Authorized 300,000 shares 100,000 and 100,603 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Capital in excess of stated value
Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Total Sonoco Shareholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Noncontrolling Interests
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total Equity
Total Liabilities and Equity
Liabilities and Equity
Statutory tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount
Valuation allowance
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount
Tax examinations including change in reserve for uncertain tax positions
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Other, Amount
Change in estimates related to prior years
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Prior Year Income Taxes, Amount
Foreign earnings taxed at other than U.S. rates
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount
Disposition of business
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Disposition of Business, Amount
Effect of tax rate changes enacted during the year
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount
Deduction related to qualified production activities
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Qualified Production Activity, Amount
Other, net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Statutory tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent
Valuation allowance
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent
Tax examinations including change in reserve for uncertain tax positions
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Other, Percent
Change in estimates related to prior years
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Prior Year Income Taxes, Percent
Foreign earnings taxed at other than U.S. rates
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent
Disposition of business
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Disposition of Business, Percent
Effect of tax rate changes enacted during the year
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Percent
Deduction related to qualified production activities
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Qualified Production Activity, Percent
Other, net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent
Total taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Cost of sales
Cost of Sales [Member]
Selling, general and administrative
Selling General And Administrative Expense [Member]
Selling, general and administrative expense.
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net
Gain or (Loss) Recognized
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net
Employee Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Plans' Obligations and Assets
Schedule of Accumulated and Projected Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block]
Fair Value of Plan Assets
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Recognized Amounts in Consolidated Balance Sheets
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]
Component of Net Periodic Pension Cost that are Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Income)
Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year [Table Text Block]
Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Loss/(Income)
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss/(Income) Expects to Recognize as Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Company's Projected Benefit Payments
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]
Major Actuarial Assumptions Used in Determining PBO, ABO and Net Periodic Cost
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Health Care Cost Trend Rates Related to U.S. Plan
Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Weighted-Average Asset Allocations
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash Flows from 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]
Asset impairment
Restructuring Costs and Asset Impairment Charges
Share-based compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Equity in earnings of affiliates
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Cash dividends from affiliated companies
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions
Gain on disposition of assets
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment
Pension and postretirement plan expense
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense
Pension and postretirement plan contributions
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions
Tax effect of share-based compensation exercises
Deferred Tax Expense from Stock Options Exercised
Excess tax benefit of share-based compensation
Net (decrease) increase in deferred taxes
Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions, dispositions and foreign currency adjustments
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Inventories
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Payable to suppliers
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade
Prepaid expenses
Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense
Accrued expenses
Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities
Income taxes payable and other income tax items
Increase Decrease In Prepaid Income Taxes And Taxes Payable
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in prepaid income taxes and taxes payable.
Fox River environmental reserves
Environmental Expense and Liabilities
Other assets and liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Cost of acquisitions, net of cash acquired
Proceeds from the sale of assets
Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets
Investment in affiliates and other
Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates
Net cash used by investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from issuance of debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Principal repayment of debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities
Net decrease in commercial paper borrowings
Net Increase Decrease In Commercial Paper
Net Increase Decrease In Commercial Paper
Net (decrease) increase in outstanding checks
Increase (Decrease) in Outstanding Checks, Financing Activities
Cash dividends – common
Payments of Dividends
Excess tax benefit of share-based compensation
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities
Shares acquired
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Shares issued
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock
Net cash (used) provided by financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Effects of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized
Interest Paid, Net
Income taxes paid, net of refunds
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Equity [Table]
Equity [Table]
Equity [Table]
Weidenhammer Chile Ltda.
Weidenhammer Chile Ltda. [Member]
Weidenhammer Chile Ltda. [Member]
Buyback Program
Buyback Program [Member]
Buyback Program [Member]
Tax Withholding Obligations
Tax Withholding Obligations [Member]
Tax withholding obligations.
Equity [Line Items]
Equity [Line Items]
Equity [Line Items]
Shares repurchased
Cost of shares repurchased
Number of shares authorized for repurchase
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased
Number of shares to be repurchased under authorization plan
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased
Cash dividends per common share
Percentage of ownership of Graffo
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners
Owned subsidiary, percentage
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent
Percentage of ownership, small chilean tube and core business accounted
Noncontrolling interest, increase from business combination
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Fixed assets
Fixed Assets [Member]
Fixed Assets [Member]
Net income
Foreign Currency Items
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Defined Benefit Pension Items
Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedges
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Beginning Balance
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax
Other comprehensive income/(loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Ending Balance
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Estimates and Assumptions
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Research and Development
Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Restructuring and Asset Impairment
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventories
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Derivatives
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reportable Segments
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes [Table]
Income Taxes [Table]
Income Taxes [Table]
Geographical [Domain]
Tax Period [Axis]
Tax Period [Axis]
Tax Period [Domain]
Tax Period [Domain]
2014 to 2019
Two Thousand Fourteen to Two Thousand Nineteen [Member]
Two Thousand Fourteen to Two Thousand Nineteen [Member]
2019 to 2033
Two Thousand and Nineteen and Two Thousand and Thirty Three [Member]
Two Thousand and Nineteen and Two Thousand and Thirty Three [Member]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
U.S. Federal
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Foreign
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
State
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Uncertain Items Arising During Year
Uncertain Items Arising During Year [Member]
Uncertain Items Arising During Year [Member]
Uncertain Items Arising During Prior Years
Uncertain Items Arising During Prior Years [Member]
Uncertain Items Arising During Prior Years [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Loss carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards
Loss carryforwards not subject to expiration
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Not Subject to Expiration
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Estimated Time Until Use
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Estimated Time Until Use
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Estimated Time Until Use
Operating loss carryforwards subject to expiration
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration
State credit carry forwards
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount
Increase (decrease) in reserve for uncertain tax positions
Undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries total
Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees
Unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Accrued for interest
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued
Interest expense
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense
Interest benefit
Interest Benefit Resulting From Lapse Of Applicable Statute Of Limitations
Interest benefit resulting from lapse of applicable statute of limitations.
Interest expense
Interest Expense On Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Interest expense on unrecognized tax benefits.
Reserve for uncertain tax benefits
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit
Segment Reporting
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Acquisitions
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Anti-dilutive options/SARs
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Document Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type
Document Type
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
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 Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Estimated Fair Values of all SARs Applying Assumptions
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Stock Options and SARs Outstanding and Exercisable
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Award Activity [Table Text Block]
Company's Stock Options and SARs
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]
Activity Related to PCSUs and Restricted Stock Units
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]
Financial Instruments and Derivatives
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Site Contingency [Table]
Site Contingency [Table]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Appvion, Inc.
Appvion, Inc. [Member]
Appvion, Inc. [Member]
Environmental Remediation Site [Axis]
Environmental Remediation Site [Axis]
Environmental Remediation Site [Domain]
Environmental Remediation Site [Domain]
Lower Fox River
Lower Fox River [Member]
Lower Fox River [Member]
Operating Units 2 - 5
Operating Units Two To Five [Member]
Operating units two to five.
U.S. Mills
Us Mills [Member]
U.S. mills.
Site Contingency [Line Items]
Site Contingency [Line Items]
Number of defendants
Loss Contingency, Number of Defendants
Settlement amount
Litigation Settlement, Amount
Total estimated possible claim
Loss Contingency, Estimated Possible Loss, Total
Loss Contingency, Estimated Possible Loss, Total
Environmental accrual
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies
Increase (decrease) due to revision of estimates
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Increase (Decrease) for Revision in Estimates
Environmental remediation cumulative spending
Environmental Remediation Cumulative Spending
Environmental remediation cumulative spending.
Environmental contingencies future related cost, high estimate
Site Contingency, Loss Exposure Not Accrued, High Estimate
Payment for remediation
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Payments
Penalty per day for failure to comply with its terms
Penalty Per Day For Failure To Comply With Its Terms
Penalty per day for failure to comply with its terms.
Total future payments
Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation
Payments in 2016
Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Next Twelve Months
Payments in 2017
Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Second Year
Payments in 2018
Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Third Year
Payments in 2019
Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due in Fourth Year
Payments in 2020 - 2023
Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Due After Fourth Year
The aggregate remaining amount of payments due after the fourth year after the balance sheet date to extinguish a recorded unconditional purchase obligation.
5.75% debentures due November 2040
Five Point Seven Five Percentage Debentures Due November 2040 [Member]
Five point seven five percentage debentures due November 2040.
4.375% debentures due November 2021
Four Point Three Seven Five Percentage Debentures Due November 2021 [Member]
Four point three seven five percentage debentures due November 2021.
9.2% debentures due August 2021
Nine Two Percentage Debentures Due August 2021 [Member]
Nine two percentage debentures due august 2021.
5.625% debentures due June 2016
Five Point Six Two Five Percentage Debentures Due June 2016 [Member]
Five Point Six Two Five Percentage Debentures Due June 2016 [Member]
Term loan, due October 2017
Term Loan Due October 2017 [Member]
Term Loan Due October 2017.
Commercial paper, average rate of 0.39% in 2015 and 0.22% in 2014
Commercial Paper [Member]
Foreign denominated debt, average rate of 4.3% in 2015 and 4.6% in 2014
Foreign Denominated Debt [Member]
Foreign Denominated Debt.
Other notes
Other Notes [Member]
Other notes.
Debt [Line Items]
Debt [Line Items]
Debt [Line Items]
Total debt
Long-term Debt
Less current portion and short-term notes
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Stated interest rate (percentage)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Weighted average interest rate (percentage)
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Pre-age 65
Pre Age Sixty Five [Member]
Pre-age 65.
Post-age 65
Post Age Sixty Five [Member]
Post-age 65.
Healthcare Cost Trend Rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year
Ultimate Trend Rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate
Year at which the Rate Reaches the Ultimate Trend Rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate
New Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Income Statement [Abstract]
Cost of sales
Gross profit
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Income before interest and income taxes
Operating Income (Loss)
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Interest income
Investment Income, Interest
Provision for income taxes
Equity in earnings of affiliates, net of tax
Net income
Net income attributable to Sonoco
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic
Assuming exercise of awards
Net income attributable to Sonoco:
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Cash dividends (usd per share)
Beginning Balance
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Vested
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Vested In Period
Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award options vested in period.
Exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Forfeited/Expired
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period
Ending Balance
Beginning Balance, weighted-average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Granted, weighted-average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Exercised, weighted-average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Forfeited/Expired, weighted average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Ending Balance, weighted average exercise price
Protective Solutions
Protective Packaging Segment [Member]
Protective packaging segment.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance
Acquisitions
Dispositions
Other
Foreign currency translation
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments
Ending Balance
Shareholders' Equity and Earnings per Share
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]