v2.4.0.8
Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Sep. 30, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Sep. 30, 2013
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]      
Equity method investments $ 257,166 $ 291,109 $ 262,643
The Andersons Albion Ethanol LLC
      
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]      
Equity method investments 33,465 [1] 40,194 [1] 35,643 [1]
The Andersons Clymers Ethanol LLC
      
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]      
Equity method investments 51,692 [1] 44,418 [1] 37,695 [1]
The Andersons Marathon Ethanol LLC
      
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]      
Equity method investments 42,416 [1] 46,811 [1] 37,844 [1]
Lansing Trade Group LLC
      
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]      
Equity method investments 72,560 [2] 106,028 [2] 100,071 [2]
Thompsons Limited
      
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]      
Equity method investments 53,125 [3] 49,833 [3] 47,477 [3]
Other
      
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]      
Equity method investments $ 3,908 $ 3,825 $ 3,913
[1] LLCs investment balances are reduced by cash distributions made during 2014
[2] ecrease in LTG investment balance is driven by the sale of a portion of the Company's interest in LTG during the first quarter of 2014
[3] Thompsons Limited and related U.S. operating company held by joint ventures