Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	$ 190,460	$ 199,061	$ 173,977
The Andersons Albion Ethanol LLC [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	31,463	32,829	29,931
The Andersons Clymers Ethanol LLC [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	38,880	40,001	37,323
The Andersons Marathon Ethanol LLC [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	39,322	43,019	35,424
Lansing Trade Group LLC [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	78,754	81,209	69,500
Other [Member]
Company's investment balance in each of its equity method investees by entity
Equity method investments	$ 2,041	$ 2,003	$ 1,799