Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 232,396		$ 291,109		$ 190,377
The Andersons Albion Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	31,867	[1]	40,194	[1]	31,169	[1]
The Andersons Clymers Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	40,412	[1]	44,418	[1]	32,900	[1]
The Andersons Marathon Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	45,946	[1]	46,811	[1]	32,164	[1]
Lansing Trade Group LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	60,837	[2]	106,028	[2]	91,752	[2]
Thompsons Limited [Member]
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	49,520	[3]	49,833	[3]	0
Other
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 3,814		$ 3,825		$ 2,392

[1] Decrease in LLCs investment balance is due to cash distributions made during the first quarter of 2014, partially offset by strong earnings

[2] Decrease 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