Legal Proceedings (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Intellectual property licensing	$ 200	$ 824	$ 0

Revenue earned during the period relating to consideration received from another party for the right to use, or own, certain of the entity's intangible assets. Licensing arrangements include, but are not limited to, rights to use a patent, copyright, technology, manufacturing process, software or trademark.

No definition available.

Name:	hgbl_IntellectualPropertyRevenue
Namespace Prefix:	hgbl_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration