Segment Information (Details Textual) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012 Reportable_Business_Segment	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments (business segments)	6
Railcar assets leased to others, net	$ 228,330	$ 197,137
Rental and service income-operating leases	77,916	68,124	60,700
Grain
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	261,800	164,800	267,300
Canada | Rail
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	10,600	13,300	9,100
Mexico | Rail
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Rental and service income-operating leases	400	400	300
Railcar
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Railcar assets leased to others, net	$ 38,500	$ 29,000