Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Estimated undiscounted reserve for environmental liabilities Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Contingencies Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Abstract] Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Component Amount Amount of first costs for environmental remediation costs to be born by reporting entity per acquisition agreement Recognized remaining undiscounted gross environmental remediation liability Environmental reserve recognized Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Increase (Decrease) for Acquisitions and Divestitures Description of first costs for environmental remediation costs to be born by reporting entity per acquisition agreement Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Material Components Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current Estimated undiscounted reserve for environmental liabilities, short-term Estimated undiscounted reserve for environmental liabilities, long-term Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Noncurrent Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Derivative Instruments Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Net gain (loss) deferred in AOCI Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Balance at beginning of period Balance at end of period Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME / (LOSS) Translation Adjustments Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member] Issuance of common units under LTIP, net of units tendered by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation Units tendered by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities: Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Equity-indexed compensation expense Compensation expense recognized Equity-indexed compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Amortization under the declining balance method Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Impairments Impairments Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block] Fair value of asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Total assets Assets ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Total current assets Total current assets Assets, Current CURRENT ASSETS Assets, Current [Abstract] Award Type [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition [Axis] Acquisition-related costs Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Business acquisition Dispositions Business Acquisition [Line Items] Interest acquired (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Pro forma, Basic net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Pro forma, Diluted net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Supplemental pro forma: Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Summary of unaudited pro forma results of operations Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Pro forma, Net income attributable to PAA Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Pro Forma, Total revenues Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Acquisition-related costs incurred Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Purchase Price Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Acquisitions and Dispositions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Total assets due to assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Cash acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Contingent tax liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Deferred tax liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Inventory Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Other long-term liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Property and equipment Property and equipment, net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Total net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business acquisition, allocation of fair value of assets and liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Acquisitions and Dispositions Acquisitions Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Net gain (loss) expected to be reclassified to earnings in next 12 months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash flow hedge Two-for-One Unit Split Class of Stock Disclosures [Abstract] PAA commercial paper notes, bearing a weighted-average interest rate of 0.29% and 0.33%, respectively Commercial Paper Commercial paper notes Commercial Paper Program Commercial Paper [Member] PAA commercial paper notes, long-term Long-term Commercial Paper, Noncurrent COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 11) Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies. Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Legal Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commodity Derivatives Commodity Contract [Member] Deferred tax assets: Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Deferred tax liabilities: Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Comprehensive income attributable to PAA Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Risk [Line Items] Major customer percentage of total revenue Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Change from net income attributable to PAA and net transfers to/from noncontrolling interests Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Change Due to Net Income Attributable to Parent and Effects of Changes, Net Issuance of PNG common units Increase in capital from sale of PNG common units Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Issuance of Equity by Subsidiary to Noncontrolling Interests PNG Merger (Note 10) Net impact of PNG Merger on total partners' capital Net transfers to/from noncontrolling interests Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Net PNG Merger Transfers to/from noncontrolling interests: Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Net [Abstract] Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Purchase of Interest by Parent Equity-classified loss from purchase of PNG common units Decrease in capital from purchase of PNG common units in conjunction with the PNG Merger Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items] Potential Acquisition of Publicly-held Common Units of PNG Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table] Schedule of effect of changes in the entity's ownership interest in subsidiary on the partner's capital Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table Text Block] Basis of Consolidation and Presentation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest Consolidation, Subsidiaries or Other Investments, Consolidated Entities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Total Contractual Obligation Thereafter Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year 2018 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year 2017 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months 2014 2015 Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year 2016 Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year Total future non-cancelable commitments Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Abstract] Future non-cancelable commitments relating to operating and capital leases and third-party operation agreements Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Contributed assets Contribution of Property Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses COSTS AND EXPENSES Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Crude oil Crude Oil [Member] Canadian federal and provincial income tax Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current income tax expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Current tax expense: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] State income tax Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Advance cash payments received from third parties to mitigate credit risk Customer Advances, Current Consolidated revenue Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Customer contracts and relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Total debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Short-term debt Total short-term debt Debt, Current Debt Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Instrument [Axis] Term Loans, amounts outstanding GO Bonds obligor amount Long-term Debt, Gross Debt Covenant Compliance Debt Instrument, Covenant Compliance Basis Variable interest rate used Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt instrument face value Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt instrument fair value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Periods for which letters of credit are issued Debt Instrument, Term Senior notes, unamortized discount (in dollars) Unamortized discounts Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Aggregate unamortized net discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Debt issuance costs capitalized during the period Debt Issuance Cost Debt Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Long-term accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Short-term accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current Accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current and Noncurrent Canadian federal and provincial income tax Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax expense Deferred income tax expense Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred tax expense: Deferred tax (benefit)/expense: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross State income tax State deferred income tax (benefit)/expense Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Book accruals in excess of current tax deductions Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Net deferred tax liabilities Property and equipment in excess of tax values Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Depreciation expense Depreciation Netting Adjustment Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Net Position - Asset Derivative Asset Rate of fixed interest to be received on interest rate swap (as a percent) Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate Average exchange rate for outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts Derivative, Average Forward Exchange Rate Broker receivable Cash collateral paid Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative credit-risk related contingent features Derivative, Credit Risk Related Contingent Features, Existence and Nature Basis for variable interest rate Asset Derivatives Fair Value Gross Position - Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Net Amounts of Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Liability Derivatives Fair Value Gross Position - Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Net Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Net derivative asset/(liability) Derivative, Fair Value, Net Rate of fixed interest to be received on interest rate swap (as a percent) Total Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Derivative Instrument [Axis] Fair value of derivative instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Derivatives and Risk Management Activities Derivatives and Risk Management Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Other gain/(loss) recognized in income Gain on derivative instruments recognized in interest expense attributable to the ineffective portion of the swaps Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Net deferred gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivatives (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Gain on derivative instruments deferred in AOCI Derivative Instruments, Gain Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion Net Position - Liability Derivative Liability Netting Adjustment Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative disclosures Derivative [Line Items] Derivatives disclosures Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Cash Settlements Associated with Derivative Activities Derivatives, Hedge Discontinuances, Termination of Hedging Instrument or Hedged Item [Policy Text Block] Derivatives That Qualify for Hedge Accounting Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Hedging Derivatives [Policy Text Block] Derivatives That Do Not Qualify for Hedge Accounting Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Derivatives Not Designated or Qualifying as Hedges [Policy Text Block] Offsetting Derivative Assets and Liabilities Derivatives, Offsetting Fair Value Amounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivatives designated as hedging instruments Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Equity-Indexed Compensation Plans Equity-Indexed Compensation Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Dispositions Dispositions Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Distributions paid to common unitholders (Note 8) Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Cash Distributions Paid Unitholders of record, date Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Date of Record Distribution declared, date Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Declaration Date Total cash distributions paid Distributions Made to Limited Partner, by Distribution [Table Text Block] Cash distributions per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Domain] Trade accounts receivable and other receivables, gross Due from Related Parties, Current Accounts payable, gross Due to Related Parties, Current Early redemption of senior notes Loss on early redemption of senior notes Early Repayment of Senior Debt Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Effect of translation adjustment on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Total Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Environmental Matters Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental Environmental Expense and Liabilities [Abstract] Environmental Remediation Site [Axis] Environmental Remediation Site [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Other Equity Method Investee [Member] Investment, Name [Domain] Distributions received from equity method investees Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Ownership interest (as a percent) Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Investments in unconsolidated entities Equity Method Investments Equity Method of Accounting Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments in entities accounted for under the equity method of accounting Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Total Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Recurring Fair Value Measures Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Roll forward of Level 3 Net Asset Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Recurring Fair Value Measures Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Transfers out of Level 3 (liability) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers out of Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (asset) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Included in earnings Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Included in other comprehensive income Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Settlements Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Settlements Transfers out of Level 3 (asset) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers, Net Beginning Balance Ending Balance Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis with Unobservable Inputs Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization 2014 Future amortization expense first full fiscal year Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2013 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Estimated amortization expense Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Intangible assets Cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite Lived Intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Average Depreciable Life Estimated Useful Lives Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Currency Exchange Rate Risk Hedging: Foreign Currency Derivatives [Abstract] Foreign Currency Transactions Foreign Currency Transaction [Abstract] Gain (loss) on revaluation of foreign currency transactions and monetary assets and liabilities Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Gain on foreign currency revaluation Foreign Currency Transactions Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Derivatives Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Net Position By Currency of Foreign Currency Derivatives Gain (loss) on sale of various property and equipment Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Loss on early redemption of senior notes Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt General and administrative expenses General and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense Distributions paid to General Partner - 2% General Partner Distributions General Partner General partner General Partner [Member] General partner General Partners' Capital Account General Partner Contribution General Partners' Contributed Capital Contribution from general partner Goodwill Balance at beginning of period Balance at end of period Goodwill. Acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Goodwill disclosures Goodwill [Line Items] Changes in goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Foreign currency translation adjustments Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Segment profit Gross Profit Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Impairment charges - predominantly related to assets taken out of service Losses on impairment of assets Impaired Assets to be Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, Amount of Impairment Loss Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Distributions paid to General Partner - Incentive Incentive Distribution, Distribution Managing Member or General Partner [Axis] Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner [Line Items] Quarterly Distribution Incentive Distribution, Managing Member or General Partner [Abstract] Incentive Distribution, Recipient [Domain] Net Income attributable to PAA Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Income before tax INCOME BEFORE TAX Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities, net of distributions Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Taxes Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income taxes, net of amounts refunded Income Taxes Paid, Net Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade accounts receivable and other Trade accounts receivable and other Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Accounts payable and other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Change in restricted cash Restricted cash in escrow for acquisitions Release of restricted cash previously held in escrow Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Intangible Assets Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block] Interest expense, capitalized interest Capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Interest expense, net Interest expense Interest expense (net of capitalized interest of $10, $10, $22 and $19, respectively) Interest Expense Interest expense Interest Expense [Member] Interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Interest Rate Derivatives Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Risk Hedging Interest Rate Derivatives [Abstract] Interest Rate Swaps Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Intersegment Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Inventory, Current [Table] Inventory disclosures Inventory [Line Items] Inventory Inventory, Net Long-term inventory Inventory, Noncurrent Inventory, Linefill, Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Charge related to the write-down of inventory Inventory valuation adjustments Inventory Write-down IPO IPO [Member] Future non-cancelable commitments related to various operating and capital leases Leases [Abstract] Outstanding letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Total liabilities and partners' capital Liabilities and Equity Total current liabilities Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current CURRENT LIABILITIES Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Total long-term liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent LONG-TERM LIABILITIES Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Other long-term liabilities and deferred credits Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent General partner ownership interest (as a percent) Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Ownership interest (as a percent) Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Common Units Limited Partner Limited Partner [Member] Common unitholders (367,822,748 and 359,133,200 units outstanding, respectively) Limited Partners' Capital Account Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Axis] Limited Partners' Capital Account, Class [Domain] Distributions paid to common unit holders Limited Partners' Capital Account, Distribution Amount Common unitholders, units outstanding (in units) Units outstanding (in units) Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding Balance, beginning of period (in units) Balance, end of period (in units) Proceeds from Sale Limited Partners' Contributed Capital Borrowings outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Credit facility, interest rate (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Maximum aggregate amount outstanding at any time Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Credit Facilities Credit agreements Line of Credit [Member] Credit Facility, Current Line of Credit, Current Amount of civil penalty agreed to Litigation Settlement, Amount Accounts Receivable Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Long-term debt: Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract] Total long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Maturities Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Weighted average interest rate, long-term (as a percent) Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Long-term debt under credit facilities Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent Total Notes and Loans, Noncurrent Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $16 and $15, respectively Senior notes, net of unamortized discounts of $16 and $15, respectively Notes Payable, Noncurrent Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Table] Estimated maximum fines and penalties for alleged violations Expected maximum settlement amount Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Number of cases filed during the period Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number Customer [Axis] Initial margin Margin Deposit Assets Repayments of senior notes Senior notes repaid Maturities of Senior Debt Maximum Maximum [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Distribution to noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling interests, ownership percentage of noncontrolling owners Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Ownership interest (as a percent) Ownership interest in PNGS prior to IPO (as a percent) Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Changes in the noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Customer [Domain] Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net cash used in investing activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PAA Net income attributable to Plains Net income attributable to PAA Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent GENERAL PARTNER Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners LIMITED PARTNERS Net income available to limited partners Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Diluted net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) DILUTED NET INCOME PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT (in dollars per unit) Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted BASIC NET INCOME PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT (in dollars per unit) Basic net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax Effect of dilutive securities: Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary (Note 10) Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Sale of Parent Equity Interest Non-controlling interests associated with the book value of PNG sold to third parties Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Increase in noncontrolling interest from sale of PNG common units Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Long Lived Assets Long-Lived Assets Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] OTHER INCOME/(EXPENSE) Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Number of additional acquisitions completed (in entities) Number of Businesses Acquired Number of outstanding interest rate swaps (in contracts) Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held Operating segments number Number of Operating Segments Costs Offering Costs, Partnership Interests Office property and equipment Office Equipment [Member] Netting Adjustment: Offsetting [Abstract] Derivative Asset Positions Offsetting Derivative Assets [Abstract] Derivative Liability Positions Offsetting Derivative Liabilities [Abstract] Field operating costs Operating Costs and Expenses OPERATING INCOME Operating income/(loss) Operating Income (Loss) Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Expenditures related to leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Organization and Basis of Consolidation and Presentation Organization and Basis of Consolidation and Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Impairments of long-lived assets primarily related to Pier 400 terminal project Impairments of long-lived assets Other Asset Impairment Charges Other Assets, Net Other current assets Other Assets, Current Other Assets, Net Other Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Other Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Noncurrent Other, net Other Assets, Noncurrent OTHER ASSETS Other Assets, Net Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Total Other Commitment Thereafter Other Commitment, Due after Fifth Year 2018 Other Commitment, Due in Fifth Year 2017 Other Commitment, Due in Fourth Year 2014 Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months 2015 Other Commitment, Due in Second Year 2016 Other Commitment, Due in Third Year Other commitments Other Commitment, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Deferred gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax Net deferred loss on cash flow hedges Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income/(loss) Total period activity Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Reclassification adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income/(loss): Other current assets Other Current Assets [Member] Other current liabilities Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Long-term debt under credit facilities and other Other Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Other Other Noncash Income (Expense) Other income/(expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other short-term debt Other Short-term Borrowings Partners' Capital Excluding Noncontrolling Interests Total Net Income Attributable to Plains Parent [Member] Less: Undistributed earnings allocated and distributions to participating securities Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings Partner Capital Components [Axis] Partner Capital Components [Domain] Total partners' capital excluding noncontrolling interests Partners' capital excluding noncontrolling interests Partners' Capital Distributions Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Net proceeds from Sale Net Proceeds Partners' Capital Account, Sale of Units Issuance of common units Equity-indexed compensation expense Partners' Capital Account, Unit-based Compensation Number of PAA common units issued for each outstanding common unit of PNG Partners' Capital Account, Units, Acquisitions PNG Merger (in units) Units Issued Units Sold Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sale of Units Issuance of common units (in units) Noncontrolling interests Partners' Capital Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total partners' capital Partners Capital Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance, beginning of period Balance, end of period PARTNERS' CAPITAL Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Partners' Capital and Distributions Partners' Capital and Distributions Partners' Capital Notes Disclosure [Text Block] Other Other Partners' Capital, Other NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PAA: Partnership Income [Abstract] Costs reimbursed to general partner Payment for Administrative Fees Payments for Legal Settlements Settlement payments Settlement charges paid Cash payment for (proceeds from) termination of interest rate swaps Payments for (Proceeds from) Hedge, Financing Activities Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Cash paid in connection with acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Investment in unconsolidated entities Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Additions to property, equipment and other Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Pipelines and related facilities Pipelines [Member] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Commodity Price Risk Hedging: Price Risk Derivatives [Abstract] Private Placement Private Placement [Member] Cash received related to formation of pipeline Cash received upon formation of equity-method investment Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions, Return of Capital Net proceeds from the issuance of common units (Note 8) Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Units Total borrowings Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Net proceeds from private placement on PNG common units Proceeds from Issuance of Private Placement Proceeds from the issuance of senior notes (Note 6) Issuance of senior notes Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Borrowings under credit agreements Proceeds from Lines of Credit Net proceeds from the issuance of PNG common units Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Other financing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Short-term borrowings related to cash overdraft Proceeds from (Repayments of) Bank Overdrafts Net repayments under PAA commercial paper program (Note 6) Proceeds from (Repayments of) Commercial Paper Proceeds from sales of assets Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets NET INCOME Net income Net Income Attributable to Plains Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Property and equipment, useful life Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property and equipment, net Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Components of property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Average Depreciable Life Estimated Useful Lives Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Inventory [Axis] Inventory [Domain] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Accounts Receivable Trade accounts receivable and other receivables, net Receivables, Net, Current Accounts Receivable Receivables, Net, Current [Abstract] Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to PAA Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract] Probable recoveries from insurers and from third parties under indemnification agreements recorded as a receivable Probable recoveries from insurers, net of deductibles Recorded Third-Party Environmental Recoveries Receivable Related Party [Domain] Purchases and related costs Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related party transaction Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transactions Related Party [Axis] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Total repayments Repayments of Debt Repayments under credit agreements Repayments of Lines of Credit Repayments of senior notes Repayments of senior notes Repayments of Senior Debt Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Restricted Cash Restricted Cash and Investments, Current [Abstract] Revenues Revenue from Related Parties Revenue Recognition [Abstract] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Total revenues Revenues Revenues Revenues REVENUES Revenues [Abstract] Revenues and long lived assets attributable to geographic areas Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Net proceeds received by PNG from sale of common units Sale of Stock, Consideration Received on Transaction Sale of Stock, Name of Transaction [Domain] Number of common units issued representing limited partner interest (in units) Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Price per unit of common units issued Number of common units issued to Plains (in units) Forecast Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Components of income tax expense Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Components of debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Net deferred gain/(loss), including tax effects, recognized in AOCI for derivatives Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary of derivative assets and liabilities on condensed consolidated balance sheet Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of interest rate risk hedging Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Computation of basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Summary of differences between tax expense based on the statutory federal income tax rate and the entity's effective tax expense Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Investment, Name [Axis] Equity Method of Accounting Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Derivative financial assets and liabilities within the fair value hierarchy accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years Schedule of amortization of the contract under the declining balance method for the five full or partial calendar years Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Components of intangible assets that have finite lives Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of goodwill by segment and changes during the period Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner [Table] Per unit cash distributions and the portion of the distributions representing an excess over the MQD Schedule of Incentive Distributions Made to Managing Members or General Partners by Distribution [Table Text Block] Long-term debt maturities Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Summary of equity-indexed compensation activity for long-term incentive plan awards Schedule of Nonvested Performance-based Units Activity [Table Text Block] Open foreign currency exchange contracts Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Components of other assets, net of accumulated amortization Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Business acquisition fair value determination Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Information related to transactions with related parties Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment financial data Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Segments [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Operating Segments Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Other Information about Entity's Reportable Segments Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Other Information about Entity's Reportable Segments [Abstract] Operating Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Operating segment information Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues: Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract] Operating Segments Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Senior notes Total Senior Notes, Noncurrent Senior Notes, Current Senior Notes, Current Senior notes Senior Notes [Member] Other acquisitions Equity-indexed compensation expense Share-based Compensation Award vesting rights (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights Phantom common units which vested in increment (in percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per unit LTIP Vesting Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Unit forfeitures (in units) Unit forfeitures Cancelled or forfeited (in units) Cancelled or forfeited (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in units) Unit issuance (in units) Phantom common units for which vesting criteria was modified (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at beginning of period (in units) Outstanding at end of period (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Outstanding (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per unit) Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested (in units) Vested (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Equity-Indexed Compensation Plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Unit forfeitures (in units) Unit forfeitures (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Forfeitures Units granted (in units) Units granted (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Authorized grants (in units) Authorized grants (in units) Unit issuance (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Equity Award [Domain] Equity Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation Units withheld for taxes (in units) Units tendered by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations (in units) Short-term debt: Short-term Debt [Abstract] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Weighted average interest rate, short-term (as a percent) Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Environmental remediation disclosures Site Contingency [Line Items] Site Contingency [Table] Letters of credit Standby Letters of Credit Standby Letters of Credit [Member] State income tax State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Segments [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Statement [Line Items] Document and Entity Information CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN PARTNERS' CAPITAL Scenario [Axis] Statement [Table] Unit split conversion ratio Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split, Conversion Ratio Units issued in connection with the settlement of vested awards, net of tax withholding (in units) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuance of common units under LTIP, net of units tendered by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations (in units) Issuance of common units under LTIP (in units) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross Issuance of common units under LTIP Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Consolidated subsidiary, ownership interest held by the parent (as a percent) Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Axis] Cash paid for: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Accounts Receivable Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Treasury locks entered into in anticipation of issuance of 4.70% senior notes due 2044 Treasury Lock [Member] Debt issue costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] BASIC WEIGHTED AVERAGE UNITS OUTSTANDING (in units) Basic weighted average number of limited partner units outstanding (in units) Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic DILUTED WEIGHTED AVERAGE UNITS OUTSTANDING (in units) Diluted weighted average number of limited partner units outstanding (in units) Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Diluted Weighted average LTIP units (in units) Weighted Average Number Diluted Limited Partnership Units Outstanding Adjustment Write off of debt issuance cost Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Canada CANADA United States UNITED STATES Amendment Description Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Period End Date Document Type Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Current Reporting Status Entity [Domain] Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Registrant Name Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Legal Entity [Axis] Derivative position notional amount (in barrels, Mcf or megawatt hours) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Notional amount of derivatives Notional amount of outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts Derivative, Notional Amount AAP Management Unit Activity [Roll Forward] Reserved for Future Grants Accounts Receivable, Net Disclosure of Maximum Age of Balances Past Scheduled Invoice Date Substantially all accounts receivable, net, maximum age of balances past their scheduled invoice date The maximum number of days past their scheduled invoice date for substantially all of the accounts receivable. Accumulated amortization Accumulated Amortization of Other Assets, Noncurrent Carrying amount of accumulated amortization of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Other Represents the component of other comprehensive income (loss) that is not specifically defined elsewhere in the taxonomy. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Other Adjustments [Member] Acquisition Measurement Period Threshold Threshold for acquisition period qualification Represents the minimum acquisition amount for the debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio covenant compliance requirement to change. Represents the period of time following a significant acquisition during which the debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio covenant compliance requirement is modified. Acquisition Period Acquisition period Acquisition Related Environmental Remediation Costs Amount above which Selling Company is Responsible Amount of environmental remediation costs above which the costs the selling entity agreed to pay all costs The dollar amount of environmental remediation costs related to a business acquisition above which the costs will be borne by the selling entity, as stated in the business acquisition agreement. Acquisitions in 2011 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2011. 2011 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2013. Acquisitions in 2013 [Member] 2013 Acquisitions Represents information pertaining to alleged violations of risk management plan regulations under the federal Clean Air Act. Alleged Violations of Risk Management Plan Regulations Under Federal Clean Air Act [Member] Alleged violations of risk management plan regulations under the federal Clean Air Act Amortization expense related to other assets (including finite-lived intangible assets) Amount of amortization expense incurred during the period for items included in other assets, noncurrent. May include amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets and amortization expense of capitalized debt issuance costs. Amortization Expense on Other Assets, Noncurrent Amount that may be utilized for future tax-exempt debt issuance Amount of Future Tax Exempt Debt Issuance Amount of tax-exempt debt issuance that may be utilized in the future. Annualized distribution probable of occurring for which a portion of the liability for awards based on performance levels is accrued. Annualized Distribution Probable of Occurring Annualized distribution probable of occurring (in dollars per share) Represents the annualized distribution required for vesting of distribution equivalent rights associated with awards. Annualized Distribution Threshold for Vesting of Distribution Equivalent Rights Associated with Awards Annualized distribution threshold for vesting of DERs (in dollars per share) Other ranges of annualized vesting distribution This element represents the other ranges of annualized distribution level. Annualized Vesting Distribution Other Range [Member] Average LLS/WTI crude oil basis futures Represents the derivative instruments in average spread position consisting of LLS/WTI crude oil basis swaps, which hedge anticipated sales of crude oil. Average Crude Oil Basis LLS and WTI Swaps Differential Hedges [Member] Awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2016 Represents the long-term incentive plan awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2016. Awards with A Minimum Vesting Date of August 2016 [Member] Awards with A Minimum Vesting Date of August 2017 [Member] Awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2017 Represents the long-term incentive plan awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2017. Awards with A Minimum Vesting Date of August 2018 [Member] Awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2018 Represents the long-term incentive plan awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2018. Awards with Associated DERs that Begin Payment in February 2012 [Member] Awards with associated DERs that begin payment in February 2012 Represents PNG's long-term incentive plan awards with associated DERs that begin payment in February 2012. Awards with Associated DERs that Begin Payment in May 2013 [Member] Awards with associated DERs that begin payment in May 2013 Represents PNG's long-term incentive plan awards with associated DERs that begin payment in May 2013. Awards with Associated DERs that Begin Payment in May 2014 [Member] Awards with associated DERs that begin payment in May 2014 Represents PNG's long-term incentive plan awards with associated DERs that begin payment in May 2014. Awards with a vesting date of August 2018 Represents long-term incentive plan awards with a vesting date of August 2018. Awards with Vesting Date August 2018 [Member] Awards with a vesting date of August 2019 Represents long-term incentive plan awards with a vesting date of August 2019. Awards with Vesting Date August 2019 [Member] Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Axis] Information by basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit. Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Domain] Income statement items computed for basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit. Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Line Items] The amount of earnings for the period available to each limited partner unit outstanding during the reporting period. Basic Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit [Member] Basic Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Represents the Bay Springs Pipeline, Mississippi. Bay Springs Pipeline Release Bay Springs Pipeline Release [Member] BP NGL Acquisition [Member] BP NGL Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of BP Canada Energy Company. WTI/Brent spread positions Brent WTI Spread Positions [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in spread positions that hedge purchases based on WTI derived indices and sales based on Brent derived indices. Purchase price net of cash and other working capital acquired Represents an aggregate purchase price of acquired entity net of cash and other working capital acquired. Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity Purchase Price, Net of Cash and Other Working Capital Acquired Business Acquisition, Diameter of Pipelines, Acquired Diameter of pipeline acquired (in inches) This element represents the diameter of the pipeline acquired. Business Acquisition Number of Operating Crude Oil Rail Terminals Acquired Number of operating crude oil rail terminals acquired Represents the number of operating crude oil rail terminals acquired in a business acquisition. Number of terminals under development acquired Represents the number of terminals under development acquired in a business acquisition. Business Acquisition Number of Terminals under Development Acquired Business Acquisition, Number of Transactions Completed Number of transactions completed Represents the number of transactions completed during the period. Business Acquisition, Pipelines Acquired Pipelines acquired (in miles) The pipelines acquired in a business combination, expressed in miles of pipeline. Net proceeds from issuance of common units and senior notes Business Acquisition Proceeds from Issuance of Common Units and Senior Notes Used to Pre Fund Acquisition Represents the net proceeds from issuance of common units and senior notes used to prefund an acquisition. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Adjustment, Amount Received Purchase price adjustment amount received for future costs Represents the purchase price adjustment amount received to fund anticipated facility development and other related costs identified subsequent to closing of the acquisition. Contracts value included in amortizable intangible assets Represents the amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to a contract value included in amortizable intangible assets. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Contract Included in Amortizable Intangible Assets Imputed interest The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to imputed interest. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Imputed Interest Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Tax Abatement Included in Amortizable Intangible Assets Tax abatement included in amortizable intangible assets Represents the amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to a tax abatement included in amortizable intangible assets. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Escrowed Escrowed purchase price Represents the amount of the purchase price that was escrowed at closing. Represents the remaining percentage of purchase price that was escrowed at closing. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Escrowed, Percentage Percentage of remaining purchase price Business Acquisitions Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners Pro forma, limited partner interest in net income attributable to PAA Base Gas Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Base Gas Amount of base gas recognized as of the acquisition date. Environmental liability Amount of environmental liability recognized as of the acquisition date. Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Environmental Liability Linefill Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Linefill Amount of linefill recognized as of the acquisition date. Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Long Term Inventory Long-term inventory Amount of long-term inventory recognized as of the acquisition date. Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Other Working Capital Including Cash Acquired Other working capital (including cash acquired) Amount of other working capital including cash acquired recognized as of the acquisition date. Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Other Working Capital Net of Cash Acquired Amount of other working capital recognized as of the acquisition date. Other working capital Working capital Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Working Capital Amount of working capital recognized as of the acquisition date. Butane/WTI spread positions Butane WTI Spread Positions [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in spread positions that hedge specific butane sales contacts that are priced as a percentage of WTI. Butte Pipeline Company [Member] The investment in Butte Pipe Line Company (Butte), a crude oil pipeline company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Butte Pipe Line Company Canadian Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Represents the Canadian sub-facility of the PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility that is used for Canadian borrowings. Canadian sub-facility Capital expenditures Expenditures made to expand the existing operating and/or earnings capacity of our assets. Capital Expenditure Capital Expenditures Related to Assets Acquired Capital expenditures related to acquisition Capital expenditures incurred to date that were funded by amounts received through an adjustment to the business acquisition purchase price for anticipated future development and other related costs identified subsequent to closing of the acquisition. Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified in Year Two and Three Gain expected to be reclassified to earnings prior to 2016 The estimated net amount of existing gains (losses) on cash flow hedges at the reporting date expected to be reclassified to earnings within year two and year three following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements. Gain (loss) expected to be reclassified to earnings through 2045 The estimated net amount of existing gains or losses on cash flow hedges at the reporting date expected to be reclassified to earnings through 2045. Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified Remaining Portion The cash outflow associated with the purchase of linefill and base gas. Cash paid for purchases of linefill and base gas Cash Paid Related to Purchases of Linefill and Base Gas The cash inflow associated with the sale of linefill and base gas. Cash received for sales of linefill and base gas Cash Received Related to Sales of Linefill and Base Gas Approximate reduction in depreciation expense due to depreciable life extensions The reduction in depreciation expense due to an increase in the accounting estimate of useful lives. Change in Accounting Estimate of Depreciable Lives, Estimated Depreciation Expense Reduction Incremental reduction in depreciation expense due to depreciable life extensions Change in Accounting Estimate of Depreciable Lives Incremental Depreciation Expense Reduction The incremental reduction in depreciation expense due to an increase in the accounting estimate of useful lives. Commissions paid Commission Paid to Sales Agent Represents the costs incurred for commissions paid to the agent under the equity distribution agreement. Common Units Represents activity related to common units which are a type of ownership interest in a corporation. Common Units [Member] Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Table] Schedule reflecting the computation of basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit. ConocoPhillips Company [Member] Represents the information pertaining to ConocoPhillips Company. ConocoPhillips Company Consolidated Delaware Action [Member] Represents the information pertaining to class action lawsuits filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery on behalf of PNG unitholders challenging the PNG Merger. Consolidated Delaware Action Consolidated Federal Action Consolidated Federal Action [Member] Represents the information pertaining to class action lawsuits filed in the Texas federal court on behalf of PNG unitholders challenging the PNG Merger. Consolidated Texas Action Consolidated Texas Action [Member] Represents the information pertaining to class action lawsuits filed in the Texas state court on behalf of PNG unitholders challenging the PNG Merger. Transaction costs Represents the amount of transaction costs for purchase by the parent of an additional equity interest in a subsidiary during the period, thereby effecting a change in total (consolidated) equity attributable to the parent. The purchase of the additional equity interest represented by this element increases the parent's controlling interest in the subsidiary. Consolidation Less Than Wholly Owned Subsidiary Parent Ownership Interest Changes Consolidation Less Than Wholly Owned Subsidiary Parent Ownership Interest Changes Purchase of Interest by Parent Units Issued PAA common units issued in exchange for outstanding PNG common units Represents the units of the parent issued by the parent in exchange for all equity interests in a subsidiary owned by other than the parent entity. PNG Merger (in units) Represents the consideration for units of the parent issued by the parent in exchange for all equity interests in a subsidiary owned by other than the parent entity. Consolidation Less Than Wholly Owned Subsidiary Parent Ownership Interest Changes Purchase of Interest by Parent Units Issued Value Value of PAA common units issued in exchange for outstanding PNG common units Represents the continuous equity offering program of the entity under which common units are sold through equity distribution agreements, of which there may be one or more in effect during the reporting period. Continuous Offering Program [Member] Continuous Offering Program Costs Reimbursed to General Partner Costs reimbursed to general partner Cost reimbursements made to the general partner of the entity. Cost To Clean Up and Remediate Site Before Insurance Recoveries Represents the cost incurred, to date, to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries. Cost incurred, to date, to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries Extension period subject to approval Period for which credit facility or term loan was extended under the credit agreement. Extension period Credit Extension Period Represents the derivative instruments consisting of WTS/WTI crude oil basis swaps, which hedge anticipated sales of crude oil (WTI). Crude oil grade spread positions related to anticipated purchases and sales of crude oil Crude Oil Basis Differential Hedges [Member] Crude Oil Futures and Swaps Long Put Option [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a long put option position. PLA Crude oil long put option position Represents the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained during acquisition period under credit facility. Debt Instrument, Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Acquisition Period Maximum Ratio of debt-to-EBITDA during acquisition period, maximum Coverage ratio of debt-to-EBITDA, maximum Represents the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained under credit facility. Debt Instrument, Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Maximum Debt Instrument Coverage Ratio EBITDA to Interest Minimum Coverage ratio of EBITDA-to-interest, minimum Represents the minimum ratio of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) to Interest required to be maintained under financial covenants. Denominator for Basic and Diluted Net Income per Limited Partner Unit: Denominator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization (Note 15) Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization and Impairment The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets, and the charges against earnings resulting from the aggregate write-down of all assets from their carrying value to their fair value. Diluted Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit [Member] Diluted Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit The amount of earnings per diluted limited partner unit during the reporting period. Distribution equivalent right payments made and obligations for future payments. Distribution equivalent right payments Distribution Equivalent Right Payments Aggregate cash payments made towards distribution equivalent rights during the reporting period that have been earned by satisfying service and performance requirements. Distribution Equivalent Rights Cash Payments DER cash payments Cash distributions per common unit excess over MQD (in dollars per unit) The per-unit cash dividend declared or paid to a common shareholder or a unit-holder by a LLC or LP in excess of the minimum distribution level. Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner, Per Unit over Minimum Distribution Level The threshold limit beyond which the holders of the awards are entitled to participate in distributions, if the entity makes such distributions. Distribution Threshold for Participation in Distributions Threshold on distributions paid for participation in award Distribution threshold one Represents the long-term incentive plan awards that vest upon achieving distribution threshold one. Distribution Vesting Threshold One [Member] Distribution Vesting Threshold Three [Member] Distribution threshold three Represents the long-term incentive plan awards that vest upon achieving distribution threshold three. Distribution Vesting Threshold Two [Member] Distribution threshold two Represents the long-term incentive plan awards that vest upon achieving distribution threshold two. Document and Entity Information Intangible assets representing the value of the entity's capitalized costs related to acquiring emission credits. Emission reduction credits Emission Reduction Credits [Member] Employees and Directors Long Term Incentive Plan Employees and Directors Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] This element represents the long-term incentive plans offered to the employees and directors of the entity. Enterprise Products Partners [Member] Enterprise Products Partners Represents the information related to Enterprise Products Partners. Actual cash expenditures for environmental liabilities, period paid The range of the estimated period of time when actual cash expenditures are made for environmental liabilities, as stated in years. Environmental Remediation Cash Expenditures Period in Years Represents the share of the environmental remediation costs borne by the seller of a business that was acquired by the reporting entity. Environmental Remediation Costs, Business Seller Share Environmental remediation costs borne by the seller of a business acquired by the reporting entity Equity Awards [Member] Equity Awards Incentive compensation equity awards awarded to employees consisting of a stated number of phantom shares or units. Equity Based Compensation Expense Incremental Due to Modifications Equity compensation expense Represents the additional incremental expense recognized during the period arising from the modification of share-based compensation arrangements with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Equity-Indexed Compensation Plan Fair Value Amortization Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization [Abstract] Equity Based Compensation Fair Value Future Amortization Expense Thereafter Thereafter The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. 2018 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fifth twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Five The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fourth twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2017 Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2014 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the third twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense Year Three 2016 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the second twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2015 AAP Management Units Represents the information pertaining to the AAP management units reported by a business entity. Equity Based Compensation Plan AAP Management Units [Member] AAP Management Units Disclosure of accounting policy for equity-based compensation plan of the general partner associated with AAP Management Units. Equity Based Compensation Plan AAP Management Units [Policy Text Block] Equity Based Compensation Plan Class B Units of Plains AAPLP [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the class B units of Plains AAP, L.P. reported by a business entity. AAP LP Class B Units Estimated size of release (in barrels) Represents the estimated size of the pipeline release. Estimated Size of Release Canadian withholding taxes Expense for Withholding Taxes This element represents the amount of expense during the current period for withholding taxes. Exxon Mobil Corporation Represents information pertaining to Exxon Mobil Corporation. Exxon Mobil Corporation [Member] Reconciliation of changes in fair value of derivatives classified as level 3 Tabular disclosure of the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets), and gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issues, and settlements (each type disclosed separately); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs) by class of asset and liability. Fair Value Assets, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Text Block] Derivatives entered into during the period in relation to assets and liabilities measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs, Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Assets (Liabilities) Derivative Entered into Derivatives entered into during the period Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Derivative Net Asset (Liability) Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Period Increase (Decrease) Change in unrealized gains/(losses) included in earnings relating to level 3 derivatives still held at the end of the periods This item represents the amount of the total change in unrealized (holding) gains or losses for the period which are included in the statement of income (or changes in net assets).Such unrealized (holding) gains or losses relate to those liabilities still held at the reporting date for which fair value is measured on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses [Policy Text Block] Describes the entity's accounting policies for field operating costs, and general and administrative expenses. Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses Field Operating costs Field Operating Segment [Member] Costs related to site and field operations during the period. First Quarter Distribution FY 2014 [Member] First Quarter Distribution Represents the distribution associated with earnings for the fourth quarter which will be paid in the first quarter, 2014. Represents five forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Five Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] 5 forward starting interest rate swaps (30-year) Foreign Deferred Tax Expenses (Benefit) on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian deferred tax (benefit)/expense as a result of book versus tax differences The temporary book versus tax differences in the deferred foreign income tax expense/benefit. Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2013. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Maturing in 2013 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contract that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2013 Foreign exchange forward contract that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contract that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate of USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contract that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2013. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.03 Maturing in 2013 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2013 Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.03 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.03 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03. Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 maturing in 2015. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.04 Maturing in 2015 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 maturing in 2015 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05 maturing in 2013. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.05 Maturing in 2013 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05 maturing in 2013 Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.05 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 maturing in 2015 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 maturing in 2015. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 Maturing in 2015 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.10 maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.10 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.10 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.10 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.10 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.10. Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11 maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11 Maturing in 2015 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11 maturing in 2015. Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11 maturing in 2015 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.11 Foreign exchange forward contracts maturing in 2013 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts, which is maturing in 2013. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract Maturing in 2013 [Member] Net Position By Currency of Foreign exchange forward contracts maturing in 2014 Foreign Exchange Forward Contract Maturing in 2014 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts, which is maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts Maturing in 2015 [Member] Net Position By Currency of Foreign exchange forward contracts maturing in 2015 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts, which is maturing in 2015. Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.07 maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.07 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.07 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.07 maturing in 2015 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.07 maturing in 2015. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.07 Maturing in 2015 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.07 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.07. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.07 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.09 maturing in 2014 Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange USD for CAD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.09 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.09 maturing in 2014. Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.09 maturing in 2015 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.09 maturing in 2015. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange USD for CAD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.09 Maturing in 2015 [Member] Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.09 Foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.09 Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange USD for CAD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.09 [Member] The amount of foreign income tax expense or benefit for the period computed by applying the foreign statutory tax rates to foreign pretax income from continuing operations. Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) at Foreign Statutory Rate Income tax at statutory rate Foreign Period Tax on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian period tax adjustments resulting from tax rate changes and tax return filings The temporary book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense/benefit. Foreign Period Tax on Permanent Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian permanent differences between book and tax The permanent book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense/benefit. Foreign Period Tax on Permanent Book Versus Tax Differences and Rate Changes Canadian permanent differences and rate changes The permanent book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense (benefit) and change in tax rate. Foreign Tax Rate Canadian federal and provincial corporate tax rate (as a percent) This element represents the rate at which the foreign income of an entity is charged to tax as per the enacted tax laws. Forward starting interest rate swaps Represents forward starting interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Forward starting interest rate swaps terminated in January 2011 Forward Starting Interest Rate Swap [Member] Four Forward Starting Ten Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents four forward starting 10-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. 4 forward starting interest rate swaps (10-year) Fourth Quarter Distribution Fourth Quarter Distribution FY 2013 [Member] Represents the distribution associated with earnings for the fourth quarter which will be paid in the first quarter, 2014. The investment in Frontier Pipeline Company (Frontier), a crude oil pipeline company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Frontier Pipeline Company Frontier Pipeline Company [Member] Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedges, Pretax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net deferred gains from currency risk rate hedging included in AOCI This element represents the pre-tax gain or loss on open and settled foreign currency cash flow hedges, which are included in AOCI. Net deferred gains (losses) from interest rate risk hedging included in AOCI Amount of gain or loss related to open and terminated interest rate derivatives that were designated for hedge accounting. Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges, Pretax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Gain (Loss) on Sale of Linefill and Base Gas Gain on sales of linefill and base gas The difference between the sale price and book value of linefill and base gas that was sold during the reporting period. Gain on sales of linefill and base gas Gardendale Gathering System Acquisition [Member] Gardendale Gathering System Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Gardendale Gathering System. General Partner Distribution Including Incentive Distribution Percentage The percentage of the distribution amount over the threshold that the general partner is entitled to as incentive distributions and distributions related to its general partner interest. Percent of distribution amount to the general partner above threshold General Partner Distribution Level Four [Member] General Partner Distribution - Level Four Level four quarterly general partner incentive distribution. Level one quarterly general partner incentive distribution. General Partner Distribution - Level One General Partner Distribution Level One [Member] General Partner Distribution Level Three [Member] Level three quarterly general partner incentive distribution. General Partner Distribution - Level Three General Partner Distribution - Level Two General Partner Distribution Level Two [Member] Level two quarterly general partner incentive distribution. General Partner Distribution Percentage Percent of distribution amount to the general partner before incentive distributions The percentage of the distribution that the general partner is entitled to based on its ownership. General Partner Expense [Policy Text Block] Reimbursement of Expenses of Our General Partner and its Affiliates Disclosure of accounting policy for direct and indirect costs incurred on behalf of the reporting company by its general partner. General Partner Incentive Distribution Paid or to be Paid Based on Current Period Earnings Amount of incentive distribution paid or to be paid to the general partner based on current period earnings. Less: General partner's incentive distribution General Partner Incentive Distribution Threshold Quarterly incentive distribution threshold amount (in dollars per unit) The threshold over which the general partner is entitled to receive a percentage of the distribution amount as incentive distributions. Percentage of distribution amount to the general partner as per ownership interest Represents the percentage of distribution amount to the general partner as per ownership interest. General Partner Interest Distribution Percentage Less: General partner 2% ownership The general partner's ownership allocation of net income attributable to the parent after the incentive distribution is paid. General Partner Ownership Interest in Net Income (Loss) after Incentive Distribution Represents the purchase price accounting adjustments and other required to revise the carrying amount of goodwill to fair value. Goodwill Purchase Price Accounting and Other Adjustments Purchase price accounting adjustments and other Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding AAP Management Units Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding AAP Management Units [Roll Forward] Gross Margin Gross margin Total revenues less purchases and related costs, field operating costs and depreciation and amortization. Hedged Transactions probable of not occurring Hedged Transactions Probable of Not Occurring [Member] Derivative instruments for which anticipated hedged transactions are probable of not occurring. Partnership earnings not subject to current Canadian tax The earnings of the entity which are not subject to foreign enacted tax laws. Income Not Subject to Foreign Tax The earnings of the entity which are subject to foreign enacted tax laws. Partnership earnings subject to current Canadian tax Income Subject to Foreign Tax Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Represents the amount of increase (decrease) in net deferred taxes liability. Increase (Decrease) in Net Deferred Tax Liability Increase in net deferred taxes liabilities Interest expense related to hedged inventory The interest expense incurred related to hedged inventory, which is included in segment profit. Interest Expense Hedged Inventory Inventory by category Inventory by Category [Abstract] Inventory, Current and Noncurrent Inventory (value in dollars) This element represents the aggregate of current and non-current inventory. Total Inventory, Linefill and Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Inventory, Linefill and Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Inventory Linefill and Base Gas and Long Term Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] The complete disclosure related to inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the basis of stating inventory, linefill, and base gas and long-term inventory, the method of determining inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory cost, the major classes of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory, and the nature of the cost elements included in inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. If inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory is stated above cost, accrued net losses on firm purchase commitments for inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory and losses resulting from valuing inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory at the lower-of-cost-or-market may also be included. Inventory Related Disclosures [Abstract] Inventory-related disclosures Inventory, Volumes (in barrels or in Mcf) The volume of current inventory as of the balance sheet date. Inventory, Volumes Current Inventory, Volumes Linefill and Base Gas The volume of linefill and base gas inventory as of the balance sheet date. Linefill and base gas, Volumes (in barrels or in Mcf) The volume of noncurrent inventory as of the balance sheet date. Long-term inventory, Volumes (in barrels or in Mcf) Inventory, Volumes, Noncurrent The weighted-average price per unit of current inventory. Inventory, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit, Current Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Linefill and Base Gas The weighted-average price per unit of linefill and base gas inventory. Linefill and base gas, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) The weighted-average price per unit of noncurrent inventory. Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Noncurrent Long-term inventory, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) Kemp River Pipeline Release [Member] Kemp River Pipeline Release Represents the Kemp River Pipeline located in Northern Alberta, Canada. Land and Other [Member] This element represents the real estate assets held for productive use and related non-depreciable assets. Land and other LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL Liabilities and Partners Capital [Abstract] Liability as of the balance sheet date of outstanding checks that were reclassified from cash and cash equivalents to accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Liabilities for Outstanding Checks Outstanding checks that were reclassified from cash and cash equivalents to be included in accounts payable Liability Awards Liability Awards [Member] Incentive compensation liability awards awarded to employees consisting of a stated number of phantom shares or units. Gross Unit Price (in dollars per unit) This element represents the gross unit price per capital unit. Limited Partners Unit Price, Per Unit Linefill and Base Gas Crude oil, refined products, and NGL linefill in pipelines and base gas in natural gas storage facilities that are owned by the entity. The linefill and base gas are intended for long-term use. Linefill and base gas Line of Credit and Commercial Paper [Member] Credit agreements and commercial paper program Represents information pertaining to the line of credit and commercial paper agreement entered into by the entity. Line of Credit Facility Period for which Term of Credit Facility Extended Period for which credit facility has extended Represents the period for which the credit facility has extended by the entity. Long Position on Natural Gas Contracts [Member] Long natural gas position for natural gas purchases Represents derivative instruments consisting of long natural gas position related to purchase of natural gas. Long Position on Natural Gas Swaps Contracts [Member] Represents derivative instruments consisting of long natural gas futures contracts. Long natural gas position for anticipated base gas requirements Long power position for power supply requirements Long Power Position for Power Supply Requirements Contracts [Member] Represents the derivative instruments consisting of long power positions which hedge a portion of power supply requirements. Weighted-average life of long-term debt This element represents the weighted-average life of long-term debt. Long Term Debt Weighted Average Life Long Term Incentive Plans [Member] Long-term incentive plans represent awards granted to company employees in which certain performance conditions must be met in order for the employee to receive compensation in the form of either units or cash payment. PAA Long-term Incentive Plan Awards Long-term obligations and excluded from aggregate maturities. Other long-term obligations excluded from debt maturities Long Term Obligations Excluded from Calculation of Maturities Loss Contingency Penalty or Fine Assessed Represents penalty or fine assessed on the entity in connection with an environmental matter. Charges, fines or penalties assessed Capital expenditures made during the period for the replacement of partially or fully depreciated assets in order to maintain the operating and/or earnings capacity of the company's existing assets. Maintenance capital Maintenance Capital Marathon Petroleum Corporation [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Marathon Petroleum Corporation. Marathon Petroleum Corporation March 2013 Continuous Offering Program [Member] PNG Continuous Offering Program Represents equity distribution agreement pursuant to which issue and sell common units through sales agent under March 2013 continuous offering program. Maturity Date Extension Period Period of extension of credit facility maturity date. Maturity date extension Represents the maximum aggregate offering price to issue and sell common units through a continuous offering program. Maximum Aggregate Common Stock Offer Price Maximum aggregate offer price of common stock Maximum participation in excess of distribution (as a percent) The percentage of maximum participation in excess of threshold distribution level as adjusted for debt service costs and excluding special distributions funded by debt. Maximum Percentage Participation for Distribution in Excess of Threshold May 2013 Equity Distribution Agreement [Member] May 2013 Equity Distribution Agreement Represents equity distribution agreement pursuant to which issue and sell common units through sales agent under May 2013 equity distribution agreement. Minority Interest Ownership Shares, Held by Noncontrolling Owners PNG units not owned by PAA (in units) The number of shares held by noncontrolling shareholders, partners or other equity holders in consolidated entity. Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Industrial Development Revenue Bonds Series 2009 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the obligor of Mississippi Business Finance Corporation gulf Opportunity zone industrial development revenue bonds Series 2009 connection with Southern Pines Acquisition. SG Resources Mississippi, LLC Project, Series 2009 Represents the information pertaining to the obligor of Mississippi Business Finance Corporation gulf opportunity zone industrial development revenue bonds series 2010 connection with Southern Pines Acquisition. SG Resources Mississippi, LLC Project, Series 2010 Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Industrial Development Revenue Bonds Series 2010 [Member] Natural Gas [Member] Natural gas A gaseous mixture of hydrocarbon compounds, the primary one being methane. The net cash received (paid) for terminated hedging instruments. Net Cash (Paid) Received for Terminated Hedging Instruments Settlement of terminated interest rate hedging instruments Net position by currency Net derivative notional amount by currency to be received from (paid to) the entity's foreign currency derivative counterparties. Net Derivative Notional Amount by Currency Net Income (Loss) Available to Limited Partners after Adjustment for Two Class Method for MLP This element represents the net income (loss) available to limited partners after making an adjustment in accordance with the application of the two-class method for Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs). Net income available to limited partners in accordance with application of the two-class method for MLPs Basic and Diluted Net Income per Limited Partner Unit Net Income (Loss) Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Net Long Position on Crude Oil Derivative Contracts [Member] Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge risk associated with crude oil activities. Net long position associated with crude oil purchases The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on the revolving credit facility. Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Revolving Credit Facilities Net repayments under PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility (Note 6) The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on the short-term letter of credit and hedged inventory facility. Net repayments under PAA senior secured hedged inventory facility (Note 6) Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short Term Letter of Credit and Hedged Inventory Facility The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on credit facilities of a consolidated subsidiary of the entity. Net repayments under PNG credit agreement Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Subsidiary Credit Facilities Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases. Net short spread position hedging anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases Net Short Spread Position on Anticipated Crude Oil Lease Gathering Purchase Contracts [Member] NGL Ethane and natural gasoline products as well as products commonly referred to as liquefied petroleum gas ("LPG") such as propane and butane. NGL [Member] Aggregate notional volume of commodity price risk derivatives per day, expressed in non-monetary units. Nonmonetary Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives Average Per Day Average derivative positions notional amount per day (in barrels) Represents the long-term incentive tracking unit plan offered to the non-officer employees of the entity. Non Officer Employee Long Term Incentive Tracking Unit Plan Non Officer Employee Long Term Incentive Tracking Unit Plan [Member] Number of PAA common units issued for each outstanding common unit of PNG Number of common units of the parent issued per each outstanding common unit of the subsidiary other than that owned by the parent associated with the acquisition of all the publicly held common units of the subsidiary by the parent. Number of Common Units of Parent Issued Per Unit of Subsidiary Owned Number of days after end of quarter within which distributions must be paid to unitholders The number of days after the end of the relevant quarter within which distributions of available cash must be paid to unitholders. Number of Days Required for Distribution to Unitholders after End of Quarter Number of Derivatives Held with Credit Risk Related Contingent Features Number of outstanding derivatives containing credit-risk related contingent features Represents the number of outstanding derivatives containing credit risk-related contingent features held by the entity at the reporting date. Number of Enforcement Actions Filed Number of enforcement actions Represents number of enforcement actions against Plains Midstream Canada (PMC) for failure to comply with certain regulatory requirements in connection with the release. Number of events occurred Represents the number of events resulting in a pipeline release. Number of Events Resulting in Release of Condensate The number of interest rate swaps that terminate in August 2014. Number of interest rate swaps that terminate in August 2014 (in contracts) Number of Interest Rate Swaps Terminate in August 2014 Number of Interest Rate Swaps Terminate in June 2014 The number of interest rate swaps that terminate in June 2014. Number of interest rate swaps that terminate in June 2014 (in contracts) Represents the number of long-term incentive plans that are consolidated into single plan. Number of Long Term Incentive Plans That are Consolidated Into Single Plan Number of long-term incentive plans that are consolidated into single plan Number of One Year Extensions of Revolving Credit Facility Represents the number of one-year extensions provided for under the credit facility. Credit facility extensions available Number of Principal Owners of General Partner Number of principal owners of Plains AAP, L.P., and Plains All American GP LLC The number of principal owners of the reporting entity's general partner. Number of interest rate swaps that terminated (in contracts) Number of Terminated Interest Rate Swaps The number of terminated interest rate swaps. Represents the number of term loans. Number of Term Loans Number of term loans Numerator for Basic and Diluted Net Income per Limited Partner Unit: Numerator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Abstract] Occidental Petroleum Corporation [Member] This element represents information pertaining to Occidental Petroleum Corporation (Oxy), a related party of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Oxy Offsetting Assets, Liabilities [Line Items] Derivative and financial assets and liabilities subject to offsetting Offsetting Assets, Liabilities [Table] Disclosure of information about derivative and financial assets/ (liabilities) that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements. Organization Organization [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Other 2011 Acquisitions Other Acquisitions in 2011 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to additional acquisitions made in 2011. Other Acquisitions in 2012 [Member] Other 2012 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2012. Other Acquisitions [Member] Other 2012 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to additional acquisitions. Other acquisitions Other Agreements [Member] Intangible assets representing the value of the entity's capitalized costs related to other agreements not otherwise specified. Other agreements Gross amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Other Assets, Noncurrent, Gross Other assets, gross Proportionate share of our unconsolidated entities' other comprehensive income The partnership's proportionate share of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income of an equity method investee. Other Comprehensive Income, Partnership's Portion of Equity Investee Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Information [Abstract] Other Consolidated Equity-Indexed Compensation Information Represents other equity distributions, not associated with the Continuous Offering Programs. Other Equity Offerings Other Equity Offerings [Member] Other Inventory [Member] Other Category of inventory not separately disclosed. Other long-term assets Other Long Term Assets [Member] Noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Other Long Term Liabilities [Member] Noncurrent liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Other long-term liabilities Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of other noncurrent debt not otherwise defined (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer), excluding current portion. Other Noncurrent Long Term Debt Long-term debt, other The net amount of other nonoperating income and expense, which does not qualify for separate disclosure on the income statement under materiality guidelines. Other income/(expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member] Outstanding Units Earned Outstanding Units Earned [Roll Forward] Outstanding Units [Roll Forward] Outstanding Partner Income Allocation Partner Income Allocation [Line Items] Partners Capital and Distribution [Line Items] Partners Capital and Distribution Disclosure reflecting information pertaining to Partners' Capital and related distributions. Partners' Capital and Distributions [Table] The number of limited partner common units outstanding. Outstanding units (in shares) Partners Capital Common Unit Holder Units Outstanding Partners Capital Increase from Subsidiary Stock Issuance Increase in Parent's capital balance from issuance of additional shares to noncontrolling interest holders. Increase to partners' capital The cash outflow for distributions of earnings to the general partner. Payments for Distributions to General Partner Distributions paid to general partner (Note 8) Represents the information pertaining to Pemex Exploracion y Produccion (PEP). Pemex Exploracion y Produccion (PEP) Pemex Exploracion y Produccion [Member] Percentage Distribution of Available Cash Percentage of available cash distributed (as a percent) This element represents the percentage of cash distributed out of available cash. Percentage of Face Value at which Senior Notes are Sold Percentage of face value at which senior notes are sold This element represents the percentage of face value of senior notes, at which they are sold. Per Unit Impact to Net Income (Loss) Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit Basic The per unit impact on basic net income per limited partner unit in the event of allocation of undistributed earnings to incentive distribution rights holders. Basic net income per limited partner unit impact (in dollars per unit) Diluted net income per limited partner unit impact (in dollars per unit) The per unit impact on diluted net income per limited partner unit in the event of allocation of undistributed earnings to incentive distribution rights holders. Per Unit Impact to Net Income (Loss) Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit Diluted Phillips 66 Company [Member] Phillips 66 Represents the information pertaining to Phillips 66 Company. Pipeline Loss Allowance Crude Oil Contract Net Short Position [Member] PLA crude oil net short position Represents the derivative instruments in a net short position related to pipeline loss allowance for crude oil. PLA crude oil long call option position Pipeline Loss Allowance Crude Oil Long Call Option [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a long call option position related to pipeline loss allowance for crude oil. Revenue from the transportation of crude oil, NGL and refined products, primarily on pipelines and trucks, and related activities during the period. Transportation segment revenues Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking and Related Revenues Plains All American 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] PAA 2013 LTIP Represents information related to the Plains All American 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Plains All American PNG Successor Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] PNG Successor LTIP Represents information related to the Plains All American PNG Successor Long-Term Incentive Plan. The investment in Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC, a crude oil company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC [Member] Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC PAGP This element represents information pertaining to Plains GP Holdings, LP (PAGP). Plains GP Holdings LP [Member] PNG Common Unit Issuance [Member] PNG Common Unit Issuance Represents the issuance of PNG common units. PNG General Partner PNG General Partner [Member] This element represents information pertaining to the general partner of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LP (PNG), a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, LP and the successor of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS). PNGGO Bond Term Loans [Member] Represents the GO Zone term loans of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG GO Bond term loans Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. PNG Long Term Incentive Plan Awards PNG Long Term Incentive Plan Awards [Member] PNG LTIP Awards This element represents information pertaining to PAA Natural Gas Storage, LP (PNG), a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, LP and the successor of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS). PNG PNG [Member] PNG Merger [Member] PNG Merger Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition by PAA of all of PNG's publicly-held common units, whereby PNG became a wholly-owned subsidiary of PAA. Represents the senior unsecured credit facility of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG senior unsecured revolving credit facility maturing in August 2016 PNG Senior Unsecured Credit Facility [Member] PNG senior unsecured credit facility Represents the senior unsecured revolving credit facility of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity, which is provided for under the PNG credit agreement. PNG Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Senior unsecured revolving credit facility Represents term loan one of two of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG Term Loan One [Member] PNG Term Loan One PNG Term Loan Two Represents term loan two of two of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG Term Loan Two [Member] PNG Transaction Grants Represents PNG Transaction Grants offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. PNG Transaction Grants [Member] Position Hedging Risk of Not Utilizing Storage Capacity [Member] Positions hedging risk of not utilizing storage capacity Represents the derivative instruments related to the risk of not utilizing storage capacity. The ownership percentage interest held by the principal owners of the LP's general partnership. Ownership interest (as a percent) Principal Owners Ownership Percentage Interest in General Partnership The smallest reportable ownership percentage interest held by the principal owners of the LP's general partnership. Ownership interest (as a percent) Principal Owners Ownership Percentage Interest in General Partnership Maximum Size of Smallest Owner Interest Cash received for sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary The cash inflow (outflow) associated with the sale (purchase) of or advances to the entity that is related to it but not strictly controlled (for example, an unconsolidated subsidiary, affiliate, and joint venture or equity method investment) or the sale (purchase) of an additional interest in a subsidiary (controlled entity). Proceeds from Payments for Sale Purchase of Interest in Subsidiaries Intangible asset representing the value of the entity's property tax abatement. Property tax abatement Property Tax Abatement [Member] Costs related to the purchase of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from gathering and marketing activities. Purchases and related costs Purchases and Related Costs. Purchases and Related Costs [Member] Costs related to the purchase of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from gathering and marketing activities. Purchases and related costs Describes the entity's accounting policies for recognition of costs in the period which correspond to purchases and related costs presented in the statement of operations. Purchases and Related Costs Purchases and Related Costs [Policy Text Block] Rainbow Pipeline Release Rainbow Pipeline Release [Member] Represents the Rainbow Pipeline located in Alberta, Canada. Rancho LPG Holdings LLC [Member] Rancho Represents information pertaining to Rancho LPG Holdings LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the reporting entity. Rangeland Pipeline Release Represents the Rangeland pipeline located near Sundre, Alberta, Canada. Rangeland Pipeline Release [Member] Range of Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount Dollars from 1.35 to Dollars 1.55 [Member] This element represents the range of the annualized distribution level from $1.35 to $1.55 per unit. Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $1.35 to $1.55 Range of Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount Dollars from 1.925 to Dollars 2.65 [Member] Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $1.925 to $2.65 This element represents the range of the annualized distribution level from dollars 1.925 to dollars 2.65 per unit. Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Net Income Attributable to Parent [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments, to net income attributable to the parent. Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to PAA Reduction in incentive distributions related to acquisition, total The total reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Reduction in All Incentive Distributions Reduction in incentive distributions in 2011 The reduction in the amount of incentive distribution to be made within the twelve months following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Reduction in Future Incentive Distributions in Next Twelve Months Reduction in Incentive Distributions Reduction in incentive distributions The total reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid to the general partner during the period related to acquisitions. Reduction in Incentive Distributions [Abstract] Reduction in incentive distributions This element represents the reduction in incentive distributions in February 2014. Reduction in Incentive Distributions in February 2014 Reduction in incentive distributions in February 2014 Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter after 2016 (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction per quarter in incentive distributions after 2016. Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter after 2016 This element represents the reduction per quarter in incentive distributions after November 2015. Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter after November 2015 Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter after November 2015 (in dollars per quarter) Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter for distributions paid during 2013 (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction per quarter in incentive distributions during the year 2013. Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter Current Period Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter from May 2014 through November 2015 Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter from May 2014 through November 2015 (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction per quarter in incentive distributions beginning in May 2014 through November 2015. Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter in 2016 Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter in 2016 (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction per quarter in incentive distributions in 2016. Reduction in Per Year Incentive Distribution Rights [Abstract] Reduction in incentive distribution rights Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid beginning after the third full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights Thereafter Thereafter 2014 Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid for the first full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights Year One Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights Year Three 2016 Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid for the third full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. 2015 Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid for the second full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights Year Two Related Party Ownership Interest in General Partner, Percentage Related party ownership of general partner interest (as a percent) The percentage of ownership interest of related parties in the general partner of the entity. Remediation costs incurred since acquisition of a business The amount of acquisition-to-date environmental remediation costs incurred by the reporting entity related to a business that was acquired. Remediation Costs Incurred Since Business Acquired Revenues Net [Member] Revenues Aggregate revenues net during the period in the normal course of business. The axis of a table defines the relationship between the domain members or categories in the table and the line items or concepts that complete the table of the entity. Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock Consideration Received on Transaction from Parent Cash from the parent entity received by subsidiary or equity investee for common stock issued or sold in the stock transaction. Proceeds received by PNG from Plains for sale of common units The number of units issued to the parent by the subsidiary or equity method investee per stock transaction. Number of common units issued to Plains (in units) Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued to Parent in Transaction Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Supply and Logistics segment revenues Sales and Related Revenues Sales and Related Revenues [Member] Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Supply and Logistics segment revenues Equity offerings of common units Disclosure of capital units issued in equity offerings during the period. Schedule of Capital Units Issued During Period [Table Text Block] Schedule of Changes in Minority Interest in Partners Capital [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Tabular disclosure pertaining to the changes in the noncontrolling interests in partners' capital during the period. A table or schedule providing information pertaining to short-term and long-term debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. Schedule of Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Inventory Linefill and Base Gas and Long Term Inventory [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the volumes, unit of measure, total value, and price per unit of each of the major classes of inventory. Components of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory Schedule of Long Lived Assets by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Long-lived assets attributable to geographical areas This element may be used to disclose in its entirety the names of foreign countries in which material long-lived assets other than financial instruments are located, and amount of such long-lived assets located in that country or foreign geographic area. Disclosure of the number of award units under the long-term incentive plan of a subsidiary that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance-sheet date. This disclosure stratifies the number of outstanding units by ranges of the company's vesting distribution amounts and by the estimated unit vesting date. Schedule of estimated vesting date for PNG long term incentive plan awards outstanding Schedule of Long Term Incentive Plan Awards, of Subsidiary Outstanding and Expected to Vest [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the number of award units under the long-term incentive plan that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance-sheet date. This disclosure stratifies the number of outstanding units by ranges of vesting distribution amounts and by the estimated unit vesting date. Schedule of Long Term Incentive Plan Awards, Outstanding and Expected to Vest [Table Text Block] Schedule of estimated vesting date for PAA long-term incentive plan awards outstanding Schedule of Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of derivatives assets and liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements Tabular disclosure of derivative and other financial assets and liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including master netting arrangements. Schedule of Per Unit Impact of Additional Participation in Undistributed Earnings to Earnings Per Unit Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the per unit impact to basic and diluted net income per limited partner unit in the event of allocation of undistributed earnings to incentive distribution right holders. Undistributed earnings allocation to IDRs impact on basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit This element may be used to disclose in its entirety revenues from the entity's country of domicile and revenues from foreign countries. Schedule of Revenues from External Customers by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Revenues attributable to geographical areas Disclosure that sets forth the estimated equity-indexed compensation plan fair value amortization to be recognized as an expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years. Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Fair Value Amortization [Table Text Block] Equity-indexed compensation plan fair value amortization Summary of Class B unit awards Tabular disclosure of the changes in a particular unit class of the general partner. Includes changes in units reserved for future grants and outstanding units. Schedule of Share Based Compensation Class B Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share Based Compensation Management Units Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of AAP Management Units Tabular disclosure of the changes in equity-indexed compensation plan awards for members of senior management. Includes changes in units reserved for future grants, units outstanding and units earned. Schedule of Share Based Payment Awards Expense [Table Text Block] Summary of expense recognized and value of vesting related to equity-indexed compensation plans Disclosure that sets forth the equity-indexed compensation plan expense, the fair value of vesting (settled both in units and cash) related to the equity-indexed compensation plans, and the cash payments related to distribution equivalent rights for the period. Second Quarter Distribution FY 2014 [Member] Second Quarter Distribution Represents the distribution associated with earnings for the second quarter which will be paid in the third quarter. Transportation Segment Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking [Member] Transportation segment revenues The segment of the entity pertaining to the transportation of crude oil and refined products. The segment of the entity pertaining to the sale of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage. Segment Sales and Logistics [Member] Supply and Logistics The segment of the entity pertaining to the storing, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas. Facilities Segment Storage Terminalling Processing [Member] 3.85% senior notes due October 2023 Represents the 3.85 percent senior notes, which are due in 2023. Senior Notes Due 2023 at 3.85 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due in 2044 at 4.70 Percent [Member] 4.70% senior notes due 2044 Represents the 4.70 percent senior notes, which are due in 2044. 5.63% senior notes due December 2013 Senior Notes Due in December 2013 at 5.63 Percent [Member] Represents 5.63 percent senior notes, which are due in December 2013. 5.00% senior notes due February 2021 Senior Notes Due in February 2021 at 5.00 Percent [Member] Represents 5.00 percent senior notes, which are due in February 2021. Senior Notes Due in January 2023 at 2.85 Percent [Member] 2.85% senior notes due January 2023 Represents 2.85 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2023. Senior Notes Due in January 2043 at 4.30 Percent [Member] 4.30% senior notes due January 2043 Represents 4.30 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2043. Senior Notes Due in June 2015 At 5.25 Percent [Member] 5.25% senior notes maturing in June 2015 Represents the 5.25% senior notes due June 2015. 3.65% senior notes due June 2022 Represents 3.65 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2022. Senior Notes Due in June 2022 at 3.65 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due in June 2042 at 5.15 Percent [Member] 5.15% senior notes due June 2042 Represents 5.15 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2042. Senior Notes Due in October 2012 at 7.75 Percent [Member] Represents 7.75 percent senior notes, which are due in October 2012. 7.75% senior notes due October 2012 Senior Notes Due in September 2012 at 4.25 Percent [Member] Represents 4.25 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2012. 4.25% senior notes due September 2012 Senior Notes Due in September 2015 at 3.95 Percent [Member] Represents 3.95 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2015. 3.95% senior notes due September 2015 Senior Secured Hedged Inventory Debt Facility [Member] Represents activity related to Senior secured hedged inventory credit facility. Senior secured hedged inventory facility Senior secured hedged inventory facility maturing in August 2016 Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Represents the PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility. PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility maturing in August 2018 PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility September 2012 Continuous Offering Program [Member] September 2012 Continuous Offering Program Represents equity distribution agreement pursuant to which issue and sell common units through sales agent under September 2012 continuous offering program. Settoon Towing [Member] The investment in Settoon Towing, LLC (Settoon Towing), a barge transportation services company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Settoon Towing, LLC Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Additional, Number of Shares Authorized Incremental authorized common units (in units) Represents the incremental number of shares (or other type of equity) originally approved (usually by shareholders and board of directors), net of any subsequent amendments and adjustments, for awards under the equity-based compensation plan. As stock or unit options and equity instruments other than options are awarded to participants, the shares or units remain authorized and become reserved for issuance under outstanding awards (not necessarily vested). Percentage of awards that will vest upon satisfaction of applicable performance and service conditions. Awards that will vest upon satisfaction of performance and/or service conditions (as a percent) Award vesting rights (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Right Percentage of distribution equivalent rights that will vest upon satisfaction of applicable performance and/or service conditions. DERs that will vest upon satisfaction of performance and/or service conditions (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Right Distribution Equivalent Rights The number of shares outstanding/issued under a share-based award plan which have become earned during the reporting period as certain performance conditions have been met giving the grantee the right to receive quarterly distributions. Units earned (in units) Share Based Compensation, Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Earned in Period The grant date fair value of outstanding units. Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding AAP Management Units, ending balance Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Option, Nonvested, Grant Date Fair Value Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding AAP Management Units, beginning balance Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Converted in Period Conversion of PNG unit-denominated awards into PAA unit-denominated awards (in units) The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were converted during the reporting period to awards denominated in another type of units. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Converted in Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Conversion of PNG unit-denominated awards into PAA unit-denominated awards (in dollars per unit) Represents the weighted average fair value as of the grant date of equity-based award plans other than stock (unit) option plans that were converted during the reporting period to awards denominated in another type of units. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Granted in Period Grant Date Fair Value Units granted Represents the grant date fair value of units granted. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Including Distribution Equivalent Rights, Earned Number The number of outstanding distribution equivalent rights that are vested as of the balance sheet date. DERs currently vested (in units) This element represents the portion of outstanding units, which include distribution equivalent rights that entitles the grantee to a cash payment equal to the cash distribution paid on an outstanding common unit. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Including Distribution Equivalent Rights Outstanding Units outstanding that include DERs (in units) Outstanding, ending balance (in units) Outstanding, beginning balance (in units) Share Based Compensation, Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Issued, Number The number of outstanding awards on non-stock option plans for which the employer has issued equity instruments to an employee, including both employees who have and who have not yet satisfied service or performance criteria necessary to gain title to distributions to the shares. Units Outstanding (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Reserved for Future Grants, Outstanding The number of authorized units of the general partnership that have not yet been granted/issued and are reserved for future grants. Reserved for Future Grants, outstanding Reserved for future grants outstanding, beginning balance (in units) Reserved for future grants outstanding, ending balance (in units) Outstanding Units Earned (in units) Outstanding Units Earned, ending balance (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Units Earned, Outstanding The number of outstanding awards on non-stock option plans for which the employer has issued equity instruments to an employee and the units issued have been earned as required performance conditions have been met, giving the employee the right to receive quarterly distributions. Outstanding Units Earned, beginning balance (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Vested in Period Total Settlement Fair Value The total settlement date fair value of equity-based awards for which the grantee gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements, to receive or retain shares or units in accordance with the terms of the arrangement, and for which no expense was recognized in equity during prior periods. LTIP unit-settled vestings The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the fourth twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Four Estimated unit vesting in 2017 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year One Estimated unit vesting in 2014 (in units) Estimated unit vesting in 2016 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the third twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Three Estimated unit vesting in 2015 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the second twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Two Estimated unit vesting thereafter (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Vesting Thereafter The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement thereafter the fourth twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Units granted (in units) The number of shares issued under a share-based award plan which have become granted during the reporting period as certain performance conditions have been met giving the grantee the right to receive quarterly distributions. Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award Grants in Period Available for grant under the previous plans (in units) Represents the number of shares available (or other type of equity) originally approved (usually by shareholders and board of directors) for grant under previous equity-based compensation plans. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Number of Shares Available Under Previous Plans Outstanding awards under the previous plans (in units) Represents the number of shares granted (or other type of equity) originally approved (usually by shareholders and board of directors) for under previous equity-based compensation plans. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Number of Shares Granted Under Previous Plans Annualized distribution threshold for vesting of awards (in dollars per share) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options Expected to Vest Annualized Distribution Threshold Represents the annualized distribution threshold that must be met for the vesting of awards. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Period Prior to Each Vesting Date for which Average Annualized Distribution Threshold Must be Maintained Period prior to each vesting date for which the average annualized distribution threshold must be maintained for vesting of awards Represents the period prior to each vesting date for which the average annualized distribution threshold must be maintained in order for awards to vest. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Shares Vested in Period Settled in Cash Vested awards settled in cash (in units) Represents the vested units which were settled in cash during the reporting period as a result of any share-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Vested in Period Cash Settled Aggregate cash paid by the entity during the period to settle equity instruments granted under equity-based payment arrangements that vested during the reporting period by satisfying service and performance requirements. LTIP cash-settled vestings Share Based Compensation Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans Period after Distribution Earned The length of time, in days, after the achievement of the specified distribution level, after which units will become earned, in some cases. Number of days after achievement of distribution that units will become earned, in some cases Share Based Compensation Shares Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution Lower Range Limit Annualized quarterly distribution, low end of range (in dollars per unit) Annualized distribution, low end of range (in dollars per unit) The floor of a customized range of annualized distribution amounts required for vesting. Annualized distribution, high end of range (in dollars per unit) The ceiling of a customized range of annualized distribution amounts required for vesting. Annualized quarterly distribution, high end of range (in dollars per unit) Share Based Compensation Shares Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution Upper Range Limit Reflects the required information pertaining to phantom units granted by distribution range. Share Based Compensation Shares, Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Vesting, Distribution Range [Axis] Share Based Compensation Shares, Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Vesting, Distribution Range [Domain] Domain of a series of domain members (for example, Range01, Range02, Range03...), wherein the purpose of each member for each customized range of vesting of annualized distribution amounts, is to disclose units that are potentially issuable under outstanding plan and other required information pertaining to awards for each of the range members. Short butane position related to subsequent sale of products Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for butane that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities. Short Butane Position Contracts Related To Subsequent Sale of Product [Member] Short Natural Gas Position Related to Anticipated Natural Gas Sales [Member] Short swap position consisting of swaps related to anticipated sales of natural gas. Short natural gas position related to anticipated natural gas sales Net short position related to anticipated sales of crude oil, NGL and refined products inventory Represents the derivative instruments in a net short position related to anticipated sales of crude oil, NGL and refined products inventory. Short Position Contracts Related to Anticipated Inventory Sales [Member] Short Propane Position Contracts Related to Subsequent Sale of Product [Member] Short propane position related to subsequent sale of products Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for propane that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities. The period, in years, within which the short-term borrowings must be repaid. Repayment period Short Term Borrowings Repayment Period Short WTI position related to subsequent sale of products Short WTI Position Contracts Related to Subsequent Sale of Product [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for WTI that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities. 6 forward starting interest rate swaps (30-year) Represents six forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Six Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] This element represents the information pertaining to SLC Pipeline LLC. SLC Pipeline LLC [Member] SLC Pipeline LLC Southern Pines Acquisition [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of SG Resources Mississippi, LLC, whose primary asset is in Southern Pines natural gas storage facility. Southern Pines Acquisition Special PAA Awards [Member] Special PAA Awards Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity, including transaction grants which relate to phantom common units. Standby Letters of Credit Received Standby letters of credit Represents a guarantee of payment issued by a financial institution that is used to support obligations due from third parties, a portion of which applies to future business. Issuance of common units under LTIP, net of units tendered by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations Represents the impact to each class of partners' capital associated with the value of units issued during the period under the entity's equity-based compensation plan net of units withheld to satisfy employee income tax withholding obligations. Stock Issued During Period Value Share Based Compensation Net of Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding Long lived depreciable assets used primarily for the storage and terminalling of crude oil, refined products and liquefied petroleum gas, other natural gas-related petroleum products and rail facilities. Storage, terminal and rail facilities Storage, Terminal and Rail Facilities [Member] Facilities segment revenues Storage Terminalling Processing and Related Revenues Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas during the period. Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas during the period. Facilities segment revenues Storage Terminalling Processing and Related Revenues [Member] Subordinated Units [Member] Subordinated units Represents information pertaining to subordinated units that have a lower priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Ten Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents ten forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. 10 forward starting interest rate swaps (30-year) Texas New Mexico pipeline assets purchased from Link Texas New Mexico [Member] This element represents the information pertaining to Texas New Mexico. Third Quarter Distribution Represents the distribution associated with earnings for the third quarter which will be paid in the fourth quarter. Third Quarter Distribution FY 2013 [Member] Total Cases Filed Number Total number of cases filed The total number of cases filed as of the date specified. Total Cost to Clean Up and Remediate Site before Insurance Recoveries Total cost to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries Represents the total cost to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries. Total Distribution Paid During Period Total distributions paid during the period The total distributions paid during the period. Total Estimated Cost to Clean Up and Remediate Site, before Insurance Recoveries Total estimated cost to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries Represents the estimated total cost to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries. Treasury Lock Entered in April 2014 [Member] Treasury locks entered into April 2014 Customized agreement entered in April 2014 that fixes the yield or price on a specified treasury security for a specific period. This element represents long lived, depreciable assets used for the primary purpose of moving people and products from one place to another and represents furniture and fixtures, computer hardware and other assets related to field property. Trucking equipment and other Trucking Equipment and Other [Member] Unrealized gains/(losses): Unrealized Gains and Losses Relating to Level 3 Derivatives [Abstract] USD Rail Terminal Acquisition [Member] Represents information pertaining to the acquisition of USD Rail Terminal. USD Rail Terminal Acquisition Variation Margin Posted Returned Variation margin posted/(returned) Increase (decrease) to initial margin for the variation margin posted by (returned to) the reporting entity. Western Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Western Refining. Western Refining Acquisition [Member] White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC The investment in White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC, a crude oil company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. White Cliffs Pipeline LLC [Member]