Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 190,057	$ 199,061	$ 189,118
The Andersons Albion Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	30,625	32,829	31,764
The Andersons Clymers Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	34,962	40,001	40,318
The Andersons Marathon Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	36,153	43,019	39,445
Lansing Trade Group LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	86,007	81,209	75,693
Other
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 2,310	$ 2,003	$ 1,898