Related Parties (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	$ 199,061	$ 175,349
The Andersons Albion Ethanol LLC [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	32,829	31,048
The Andersons Clymers Ethanol LLC [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	40,001	37,496
The Andersons Marathon Ethanol LLC [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	43,019	34,929
Lansing Trade Group LLC [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	81,209	70,143
Other [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	$ 2,003	$ 1,733