v3.10.0.1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Table 1 - Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Jun. 30, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016
--- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Assets |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 20,344 | $ 24,292 | $ 29,191 | $ 35,942
Receivables, net | 142,151 | 176,775 |  |
Inventories | 28,071 | 26,857 |  |
Other current assets | 26,526 | 22,508 |  |
Intercompany receivable | 0 | 0 |  |
Total current assets | 217,092 | 250,432 |  |
Property, plant and equipment, net | 4,459,681 | 4,300,933 |  |
Intangible assets, net | 758,767 | 784,479 |  |
Goodwill | 1,094,661 | 1,097,475 |  |
Investment in wholly owned subsidiaries | 0 | 0 |  |
Deferred income tax asset | 0 | 233 |  |
Other long-term assets, net | 116,768 | 101,681 |  |
Total assets | 6,646,969 | 6,535,233 |  |
Liabilities, Mezzanine Equity and Partners’ Equity |  |  |  |
Accounts payable | 127,801 | 145,932 |  |
Short-term debt | 63,000 | 35,000 |  |
Current portion of long-term debt | 0 | 349,990 |  |
Accrued interest payable | 36,192 | 40,449 |  |
Accrued liabilities | 64,719 | 61,578 |  |
Taxes other than income tax | 16,220 | 14,385 |  |
Income tax payable | 3,357 | 4,172 |  |
Intercompany payable | 0 | 0 |  |
Total current liabilities | 311,289 | 651,506 |  |
Long-term debt, less current portion | 3,380,366 | 3,263,069 |  |
Deferred income tax liability | 23,113 | 22,272 |  |
Other long-term liabilities | 105,013 | 118,297 |  |
Series D preferred units | 370,711 | 0 |  |
Total partners' equity | 2,456,477 | 2,480,089 |  |
Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and partners’ equity | 6,646,969 | 6,535,233 |  |
Eliminations [Member] |  |  |  |
Assets |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0
Receivables, net | 0 | 0 |  |
Inventories | 0 | 0 |  |
Other current assets | 0 | 0 |  |
Intercompany receivable | (2,882,812) | (3,112,164) |  |
Total current assets | (2,882,812) | (3,112,164) |  |
Property, plant and equipment, net | 0 | 0 |  |
Intangible assets, net | 0 | 0 |  |
Goodwill | 0 | 0 |  |
Investment in wholly owned subsidiaries | (5,155,712) | (5,008,132) |  |
Deferred income tax asset |  | 0 |  |
Other long-term assets, net | 0 | 0 |  |
Total assets | (8,038,524) | (8,120,296) |  |
Liabilities, Mezzanine Equity and Partners’ Equity |  |  |  |
Accounts payable | 0 | 0 |  |
Short-term debt | 0 | 0 |  |
Current portion of long-term debt |  | 0 |  |
Accrued interest payable | 0 | 0 |  |
Accrued liabilities | 0 | 0 |  |
Taxes other than income tax | 0 | 0 |  |
Income tax payable | 0 | 0 |  |
Intercompany payable | (2,882,812) | (3,112,164) |  |
Total current liabilities | (2,882,812) | (3,112,164) |  |
Long-term debt, less current portion | 0 | 0 |  |
Deferred income tax liability | 0 | 0 |  |
Other long-term liabilities | 0 | 0 |  |
Series D preferred units | 0 |  |  |
Total partners' equity | (5,155,712) | (5,008,132) |  |
Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and partners’ equity | (8,038,524) | (8,120,296) |  |
Parent Company Guarantor [Member] | NuStar Energy | Reportable Legal Entities [Member] |  |  |  |
Assets |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | 896 | 885 | 867 | 870
Receivables, net | 204 | 0 |  |
Inventories | 0 | 0 |  |
Other current assets | 78 | 61 |  |
Intercompany receivable | 56,954 | 0 |  |
Total current assets | 58,132 | 946 |  |
Property, plant and equipment, net | 0 | 0 |  |
Intangible assets, net | 0 | 0 |  |
Goodwill | 0 | 0 |  |
Investment in wholly owned subsidiaries | 2,837,072 | 2,891,371 |  |
Deferred income tax asset |  | 0 |  |
Other long-term assets, net | 3,391 | 303 |  |
Total assets | 2,898,595 | 2,892,620 |  |
Liabilities, Mezzanine Equity and Partners’ Equity |  |  |  |
Accounts payable | 4,169 | 4,078 |  |
Short-term debt | 0 | 0 |  |
Current portion of long-term debt |  | 0 |  |
Accrued interest payable | 0 | 0 |  |
Accrued liabilities | 608 | 1,105 |  |
Taxes other than income tax | 6 | 125 |  |
Income tax payable | 0 | 0 |  |
Intercompany payable | 0 | 322,296 |  |
Total current liabilities | 4,783 | 327,604 |  |
Long-term debt, less current portion | 0 | 0 |  |
Deferred income tax liability | 0 | 0 |  |
Other long-term liabilities | 0 | 0 |  |
Series D preferred units | 370,711 |  |  |
Total partners' equity | 2,523,101 | 2,565,016 |  |
Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and partners’ equity | 2,898,595 | 2,892,620 |  |
Subsidiary Issuer [Member] | NuStar Logistics | Reportable Legal Entities [Member] |  |  |  |
Assets |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | 1,777 | 29 | 64 | 5
Receivables, net | 61 | 280 |  |
Inventories | 1,913 | 1,686 |  |
Other current assets | 16,119 | 11,412 |  |
Intercompany receivable | 2,825,858 | 3,112,164 |  |
Total current assets | 2,845,728 | 3,125,571 |  |
Property, plant and equipment, net | 1,857,862 | 1,893,720 |  |
Intangible assets, net | 53,819 | 58,530 |  |
Goodwill | 149,453 | 149,453 |  |
Investment in wholly owned subsidiaries | 20,557 | 24,162 |  |
Deferred income tax asset |  | 0 |  |
Other long-term assets, net | 73,591 | 65,684 |  |
Total assets | 5,001,010 | 5,317,120 |  |
Liabilities, Mezzanine Equity and Partners’ Equity |  |  |  |
Accounts payable | 25,949 | 27,642 |  |
Short-term debt | 63,000 | 35,000 |  |
Current portion of long-term debt |  | 349,990 |  |
Accrued interest payable | 36,144 | 40,402 |  |
Accrued liabilities | 21,666 | 17,628 |  |
Taxes other than income tax | 5,368 | 7,110 |  |
Income tax payable | 231 | 732 |  |
Intercompany payable | 0 | 0 |  |
Total current liabilities | 152,358 | 478,504 |  |
Long-term debt, less current portion | 3,324,389 | 3,201,220 |  |
Deferred income tax liability | 1,262 | 1,262 |  |
Other long-term liabilities | 44,622 | 58,806 |  |
Series D preferred units | 0 |  |  |
Total partners' equity | 1,478,379 | 1,577,328 |  |
Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and partners’ equity | 5,001,010 | 5,317,120 |  |
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] | NuPOP | Reportable Legal Entities [Member] |  |  |  |
Assets |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0
Receivables, net | 0 | 0 |  |
Inventories | 8,408 | 8,611 |  |
Other current assets | 1,838 | 4,191 |  |
Intercompany receivable | 0 | 0 |  |
Total current assets | 10,246 | 12,802 |  |
Property, plant and equipment, net | 622,399 | 591,070 |  |
Intangible assets, net | 0 | 0 |  |
Goodwill | 170,652 | 170,652 |  |
Investment in wholly owned subsidiaries | 1,436,981 | 1,301,717 |  |
Deferred income tax asset |  | 0 |  |
Other long-term assets, net | 26,944 | 27,493 |  |
Total assets | 2,267,222 | 2,103,734 |  |
Liabilities, Mezzanine Equity and Partners’ Equity |  |  |  |
Accounts payable | 6,810 | 13,160 |  |
Short-term debt | 0 | 0 |  |
Current portion of long-term debt |  | 0 |  |
Accrued interest payable | 0 | 0 |  |
Accrued liabilities | 8,016 | 9,450 |  |
Taxes other than income tax | 4,828 | 3,794 |  |
Income tax payable | 0 | 4 |  |
Intercompany payable | 1,372,863 | 1,277,691 |  |
Total current liabilities | 1,392,517 | 1,304,099 |  |
Long-term debt, less current portion | 0 | 0 |  |
Deferred income tax liability | 12 | 12 |  |
Other long-term liabilities | 13,793 | 8,861 |  |
Series D preferred units | 0 |  |  |
Total partners' equity | 860,900 | 790,762 |  |
Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and partners’ equity | 2,267,222 | 2,103,734 |  |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] | Reportable Legal Entities [Member] |  |  |  |
Assets |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | 17,671 | 23,378 | $ 28,260 | $ 35,067
Receivables, net | 141,886 | 176,495 |  |
Inventories | 17,750 | 16,560 |  |
Other current assets | 8,491 | 6,844 |  |
Intercompany receivable | 0 | 0 |  |
Total current assets | 185,798 | 223,277 |  |
Property, plant and equipment, net | 1,979,420 | 1,816,143 |  |
Intangible assets, net | 704,948 | 725,949 |  |
Goodwill | 774,556 | 777,370 |  |
Investment in wholly owned subsidiaries | 861,102 | 790,882 |  |
Deferred income tax asset |  | 233 |  |
Other long-term assets, net | 12,842 | 8,201 |  |
Total assets | 4,518,666 | 4,342,055 |  |
Liabilities, Mezzanine Equity and Partners’ Equity |  |  |  |
Accounts payable | 90,873 | 101,052 |  |
Short-term debt | 0 | 0 |  |
Current portion of long-term debt |  | 0 |  |
Accrued interest payable | 48 | 47 |  |
Accrued liabilities | 34,429 | 33,395 |  |
Taxes other than income tax | 6,018 | 3,356 |  |
Income tax payable | 3,126 | 3,436 |  |
Intercompany payable | 1,509,949 | 1,512,177 |  |
Total current liabilities | 1,644,443 | 1,653,463 |  |
Long-term debt, less current portion | 55,977 | 61,849 |  |
Deferred income tax liability | 21,839 | 20,998 |  |
Other long-term liabilities | 46,598 | 50,630 |  |
Series D preferred units | 0 |  |  |
Total partners' equity | 2,749,809 | 2,555,115 |  |
Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and partners’ equity | $ 4,518,666 | $ 4,342,055 |  |

X
- Definition Payables between consolidated subsidiaries of the entity or between consolidated subsidiaries and the parent of the entity. These payables are eliminated when preparing consolidated financial statements. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ns_IntercompanyPayable
Namespace Prefix: | ns_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Receivables between consolidated subsidiaries of the entity or between consolidated subsidiaries and the parent of the entity. These receivables are eliminated when preparing consolidated financial statements. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ns_IntercompanyReceivable
Namespace Prefix: | ns_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Investment in Wholly Owned Subsidiaries + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ns_InvestmentInWhollyOwnedSubsidiaries
Namespace Prefix: | ns_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.19(a)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for real and property taxes. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.20) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 720 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6419918&loc=d3e35281-107843 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 8 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=82887183&loc=d3e6935-107765 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AccrualForTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of the unpaid sum of the known and estimated amounts payable to satisfy all currently due domestic and foreign income tax obligations. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(15)(b)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(20)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(15)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6876686&loc=d3e534808-122878 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered. Examples include taxes, interest, rent and utilities. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.20) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(12)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(11)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6876686&loc=d3e534808-122878 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_Assets
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AssetsAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold, or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.9) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=82887183&loc=d3e6801-107765 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=82887183&loc=d3e6676-107765 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AssetsCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Excludes cash and cash equivalents within disposal group and discontinued operation. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=82887183&loc=d3e6676-107765 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98514028&loc=d3e3044-108585 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount after allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences and carryforwards classified as noncurrent. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84230637&loc=d3e32537-109319 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 6 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84176650&loc=d3e31931-109318 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 5 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84176650&loc=d3e31928-109318 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 9 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84176650&loc=d3e31958-109318 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84176650&loc=d3e31917-109318 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetNoncurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount, after deferred tax asset, of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable differences, with jurisdictional netting and classified as noncurrent. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 6 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84176650&loc=d3e31931-109318 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 9 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84176650&loc=d3e31958-109318 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84176650&loc=d3e31917-109318 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount after accumulated impairment loss of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35741047&loc=d3e13816-109267 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6388280&loc=d3e13770-109266 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 5 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=77989000&loc=SL49117168-202975 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_Goodwill
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Sum of the carrying amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6388964&loc=d3e16212-109274 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ((a)(1),(b)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of [accrued] interest payable on all forms of debt, including trade payables, that has been incurred and is unpaid. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.20) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 9 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=82887183&loc=d3e7018-107765 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 8 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=82887183&loc=d3e6935-107765 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount after valuation and LIFO reserves of inventory expected to be sold, or consumed within one year or operating cycle, if longer. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.6(a)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 330 -SubTopic 10 -Section 35 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=68049868&loc=d3e3927-108312 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=82887183&loc=d3e6676-107765 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InventoryNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of liabilities and equity items, including the portion of equity attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(23)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6876686&loc=d3e534808-122878 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(25)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(32)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.21) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount, after unamortized (discount) premium and debt issuance costs, of long-term debt, classified as current. Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.19,20) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount after unamortized (discount) premium and debt issuance costs of long-term debt classified as noncurrent and excluding amounts to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of current assets classified as other. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.8) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of noncurrent assets classified as other. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.17) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of liabilities classified as other, due after one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.24) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount after accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(13)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(14)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(8)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 360 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6391035&loc=d3e2868-110229 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The total amount due to the entity within one year of the balance sheet date (or one operating cycle, if longer) from outside sources, including trade accounts receivable, notes and loans receivable, as well as any other types of receivables, net of allowances established for the purpose of reducing such receivables to an amount that approximates their net realizable value. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(4)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 946 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-06(3)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6488278&loc=d3e604059-122996 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(3)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(5)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ReceivablesNetCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Reflects the total carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of debt having initial terms less than one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(19)(a)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(13)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6876686&loc=d3e534808-122878 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(16)(a)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ShortTermBorrowings
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of stockholders' equity (deficit), net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity, attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests. Amount excludes temporary equity. Alternate caption for the concept is permanent equity. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 55 -Paragraph 4I -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84234705&loc=SL4590271-111686 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 16 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=96868048&loc=SL4568740-111683 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=96868048&loc=SL4568447-111683 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying amount, attributable to parent and noncontrolling interests, of an entity's issued and outstanding stock which is not included within permanent equity. Temporary equity is a security with redemption features that are outside the control of the issuer, is not classified as an asset or liability in conformity with GAAP, and is not mandatorily redeemable. Includes any type of security that is redeemable at a fixed or determinable price or on a fixed or determinable date or dates, is redeemable at the option of the holder, or has conditions for redemption which are not solely within the control of the issuer. Includes stock with a put option held by an ESOP and stock redeemable by a holder only in the event of a change in control of the issuer. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.27(b)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterests
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis=us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis=ns_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | dei_LegalEntityAxis=ns_NustarEnergyLpMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis=us-gaap_ReportableLegalEntitiesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis=us-gaap_SubsidiaryIssuerMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | dei_LegalEntityAxis=ns_NustarLogisticsLpMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis=us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | dei_LegalEntityAxis=ns_NustarPipelineOperatingPartnershipLpMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConsolidatedEntitiesAxis=us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |