Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 05, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 129,696	$ 110,728
Other comprehensive loss:
Net unrealized loss on hedging derivatives, net of income taxes of ($1,100) and $0 for the first quarter of 2014 and 2013, respectively	(1,871)
Reclassification adjustment for loss on settlement of hedging derivatives included in net income, net of income taxes of $200 and $0 for the first quarter of 2014 and 2013, respectively	471
Foreign currency translation loss, net of income taxes of ($400) and $0 for the first quarter of 2014 and 2013, respectively	(43,477)	(50,513)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(44,877)	(50,513)
Comprehensive income	84,819	60,215
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(18,665)	(25,939)
Comprehensive income attributable to Nucor stockholders	$ 66,154	$ 34,276