Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit
Pension Plan [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit
Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets
Amortization of prior service cost and net actuarial loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Net periodic costs (benefits) for pension and post-retirement benefits
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit)
Receivables [Abstract]
Finance Receivable Transferred To Held For Sale [Table]
Finance Receivable Transferred To Held For Sale [Table]
Finance Receivable Transferred To Held For Sale [Table]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
International Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facilities
International Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facilities [Member]
International Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facilities [Member]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Foreign Line of Credit
Foreign Line of Credit [Member]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Senior Notes
Senior Notes [Member]
Receivable Type [Axis]
Receivable Type [Axis]
Receivable [Domain]
Receivable [Domain]
European RPA
Nieuw Amsterdam Receivables Purchase Agreement [Member]
Nieuw Amsterdam receivables purchase agreement.
Singapore RPA
Singapore Receivable Purchase Agreement [Member]
Singapore receivable purchase agreement.
Finance Receivable Transferred To Held For Sale [Line Items]
Finance Receivable Transferred To Held For Sale [Line Items]
Finance Receivable Transferred To Held For Sale [Line Items]
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt
Financing receivable maximum amount under receivable purchase agreement
Financing Receivable Maximum Amount Under Receivable Purchase Agreement
Financing receivable maximum amount under receivable purchase agreement.
Minimum percentage of eligible receivables related with bank funds initial purchase price
Minimum Percentage Of Eligible Receivables Related With Bank Funds Initial Purchase Price
Minimum percentage of eligible receivables related with bank funds initial purchase price.
Maximum percentage of eligible receivables related with bank funds initial purchase price
Maximum Percentage Of Eligible Receivables Related With Bank Funds Initial Purchase Price
Maximum percentage of eligible receivables related with bank funds initial purchase price.
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table]
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Buckeye Corrugated, Inc
Buckeye Corrugated, Inc [Member]
Buckeye Corrugated, Inc [Member]
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
STA Timber
Subsidiaries [Member]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Buyer Spe
Buyer Spe [Member]
Buyer Spe.
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Properties, plants and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Restricted bank financial instruments under Buyer SPE
Restricted Bank Financial Instruments Of Purchaser Under Real Estate Sale Agreement
Restricted bank financial instruments of purchaser under real estate sale agreement.
Interest income of Buyer SPE
Interest Income Of Purchaser Under Real Estate Sale Agreement
Interest income of purchaser under real estate sale agreement.
Debt instrument, principal outstanding
Long-term Debt, Gross
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Ownership interest
Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Foreign Currency Translation
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Derivative Financial Instruments
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member]
Minimum Pension Liability Adjustment
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Ending balance
SALE OF NON-UNITED STATES ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Newly Adopted Accounting Standards and Recently Issued Accounting Standards
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas
Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block]
Segment Information
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Properties, Plants and Equipment, Net by Geographical Area
Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block]
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
ASSETS AND LIABILITIES HELD FOR SALE AND DISPOSALS OF PROPERTIES, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT, NET
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Derivatives and Fair Value [Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017 change in tax rate, benefit
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017 Change In Tax Rate Deferred Tax Asset Income Tax Benefit
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017 Change In Tax Rate Deferred Tax Asset Income Tax Benefit
Tax cuts and jobs act of 2017, transition tax liability
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Transition Tax Liability
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Transition Tax Liability
Tax cuts and jobs act of 2017, incomplete accounting, change in tax rate, deferred tax liability, provisional income tax benefit
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, income tax Benefit, foreign currency loss
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Income Tax Benefit, Foreign Currency Loss
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Income Tax Benefit, Foreign Currency Loss
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, income tax expense (benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Income tax expense
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block]
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class A Common Stock
Common Class A [Member]
Class B Common Stock
Common Class B [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Basic shares
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Assumed conversion of restricted shares
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment
Diluted shares
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Basic and diluted shares
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance of trade accounts receivable
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Rigid Industrial Packaging & Services
Rigid Industrial Packaging And Services [Member]
Rigid industrial packaging and services.
Flexible Products & Services
Flexible Products And Services [Member]
Flexible products and services.
Restructuring Type [Axis]
Restructuring Type [Axis]
Type of Restructuring [Domain]
Type of Restructuring [Domain]
Employee Separation Costs
Employee Severance [Member]
Other Costs
Other Restructuring Costs [Member]
Other restructuring costs.
Restructuring and Related Costs [Line Items]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Total Amounts Expected to be Incurred
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost
Amounts Incurred During the three month period ended January 31, 2019
Restructuring Charges
Amounts Remaining to be Incurred
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining
Total Net Assets of Flexible Packaging JV
Joint Venture Net Assets [Table Text Block]
Joint venture total net assets.
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Caraustar
Caraustar [Member]
Caraustar [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Member]
Senior Note Due 2027
Senior Note Due 2027 [Member]
Senior Note Due 2027 [Member]
Multicurrency Facility
Multicurrency Facility [Member]
Multicurrency Facility [Member]
U.S. Dollar Facility
U.S. Dollar Facility [Member]
U.S. Dollar Facility [Member]
Secured Term Loan A-1 Facility
Secured Term Loan A-1 Facility [Member]
Secured Term Loan A-1 Facility [Member]
Secured Term Loan A-2 Facility
Secured Term Loan A-2 Facility [Member]
Secured Term Loan A-2 Facility [Member]
Senior Notes due 2019
Senior Note Two [Member]
Senior note two.
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of subsidiaries in merger agreement
Number Of Subsidiaries In Merger Agreement
Number Of Subsidiaries In Merger Agreement
Purchase price
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred
Debt issued
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Interest of senior notes
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Maximum borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
REVENUE
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Long-Term Debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Paper Packaging & Services
Paper Packaging And Services [Member]
Paper packaging.
Flexible Products & Services
Land Management
Land Management [Member]
Land management.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating profit (loss)
Operating Income (Loss)
Total depreciation, depletion and amortization expense
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Board Of Director Authorized
Board Of Director Authorized [Member]
Board Of Director Authorized [Member]
Stock Repurchase Committee Authorized
Stock Repurchase Committee Authorized [Member]
Stock Repurchase Committee Authorized [Member]
Percentage of shares outstanding used in two class method calculation
Percentage Of Shares Outstanding Used In Two Class Method Calculation
Percentage of shares outstanding used in two class method calculation.
Number of shares authorized to be purchased (shares)
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased
Repurchase of common stock (shares)
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Restructuring Reserve
Costs incurred and charged to expense
Costs paid or otherwise settled
Restructuring Reserve Settled With Cash Or Otherwise Settled
Restructuring reserve settled with cash or otherwise settled.
Ending balance
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Accounts receivable credit facilities
United States Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facility [Member]
United States Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facility [Member]
Domestic Line of Credit
Domestic Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt
Less deferred financing costs
Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net income
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
Non-cash asset impairment charges
Asset Impairment Charges
Gain on disposal of properties, plants and equipment, net
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment
Unrealized foreign exchange loss
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Unrealized
Deferred income tax benefit
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Transition tax expense
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Increase (decrease) in cash from changes in certain assets and liabilities:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Inventories
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Deferred purchase price on sold receivables
Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Restructuring reserves
Increase (Decrease) in Restructuring Reserve
Pension and postretirement benefit liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Obligation, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Other, net
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net
Net cash used in operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Purchases of properties, plants and equipment
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Purchases of and investments in timber properties
Payments to Acquire Timberlands
Proceeds from the sale of properties, plants, equipment and other assets
Proceeds from Sales of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets
Proceeds from the sale of businesses
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses
Proceeds from insurance recoveries
Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Payments on long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Proceeds on short-term borrowings, net
Proceeds from Short-term Debt
Payments on short-term borrowings, net
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt
Proceeds from trade accounts receivable credit facility
Proceeds From Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facility
Proceeds From Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facility
Payments on trade accounts receivable credit facility
Payments Of Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facility
Payments Of Trade Accounts Receivable Credit Facility
Dividends paid to Greif, Inc. shareholders
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest
Purchases of redeemable noncontrolling interest
Payments for Repurchase of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Net cash provided by financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Reclassification of cash to assets held for sale
Cash, Reclassification to Held-for-sale
Cash, Reclassification to Held-for-sale
Effects of exchange rates on cash
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
CONSOLIDATION OF VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block]
BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Line of Credit
Line of Credit [Member]
Prior Credit Agreement
Amended Credit Agreement [Member]
Amended credit agreement.
2017 Credit Agreement
2017 Credit Agreement [Member]
2017 Credit Agreement [Member]
Senior Notes One
Senior Notes One [Member]
Senior Notes One.
Current borrowing available
Line Of Credit Facility Excess Of Borrowing Availability
Line of credit facility excess of borrowing availability.
Reduction in outstanding letter of credit
Increase Decrease In Letters Of Credit
Increase decrease in letters of credit.
Optional additional borrowing capacity
Debt Instrument, Potential Additional Borrowing Capacity
Debt Instrument, Potential Additional Borrowing Capacity
Repayments of senior debt and debt restructuring costs
Repayments of Senior Debt and Debt Restructuring Costs
Repayments of Senior Debt and Debt Restructuring Costs
Leverage ratio, adjusted EBITDA
Debt Instrument Covenant Annual Earnings Before Interest Taxes Depreciation And Amortization
Debt Instrument Covenant Annual Earnings Before Interest Taxes Depreciation And Amortization
Leverage ratio, adjusted EBITDA during collateral release period
Debt Instrument Covenant, Annual Earnings Before Interest Taxes Depreciation And Amortization During Collateral Release Period
Debt Instrument Covenant, Annual Earnings Before Interest Taxes Depreciation And Amortization During Collateral Release Period
Interest coverage ratio, adjusted EBITDA
Debt Instruments Covenant Interest Coverage Ratio
Debt instruments covenant interest coverage ratio.
Current portion of long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Weighted average interest rate
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Actual interest rate
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage
Offsetting [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Interest Rate Swap
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Foreign Currency Forward Contracts
Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]
Cross currency swap
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash Flow Hedging
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale by Asset Type [Axis]
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale by Asset Type [Axis]
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale, Name [Domain]
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale, Name [Domain]
Assets Held And Used
Asset And Liability Group Held-for-sale [Member]
Asset And Liability Group Held-for-sale [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Number of interest rate derivatives held
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held
Notional amount
Derivative, Notional Amount
Interest rate
Gain (Loss) reclassified from AOCI to income
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
Gain to be reclassified within next twelve months
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months
Gains (losses) recorded under fair value contracts
Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Fair Value Hedge Derivatives
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency derivatives, net, before tax
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivatives, Net, before Tax
Derivative, fixed interest rate
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate
Interest expense, net
Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net
Recognized asset impairment charges
Impairment of long-lived assets held-for-use
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use
Number of impaired assets held and used (asset group)
Number Of Impaired Assets Held And Used
Number Of Impaired Assets Held And Used
Recognized amount of additional impairment related to assets and liabilities held and used
Impairment Charge on Reclassified Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Summary of Carrying Amount of Net Other Intangible Assets by Class
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Term Loan
Secured Debt [Member]
Senior Notes due 2021
Senior Note Three [Member]
Senior note three.
Other debt
Other Debt [Member]
Other Debt [Member]
Less current portion
Long-term debt
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Rigid Industrial Packaging & Services
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
October 31, 2018
Goodwill
Currency translation
Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments
January 31, 2019
Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract]
CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESERVES
Contingent Liabilities And Environmental Reserves [Text Block]
Contingent liabilities and environmental reserves.
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Trademarks and patents
Trademark And Patents [Member]
Trademarks and patents.
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Customer relationships
Customer Relationships [Member]
Other
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite lived intangible assets
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Gross Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Gross Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill)
Accumulated Amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Net Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Net Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, by Legal Entity [Table]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, by Legal Entity [Table]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Container Life Cycle Management LLC
Container Life Cycle Management LLC [Member]
Container Life Cycle Management LLC [Member]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity [Roll Forward]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity [Roll Forward]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity [Roll Forward]
October 31, 2018
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount
Current period mark to redemption value
Noncontrolling Interest, Change in Redemption Value
January 31, 2019
INCOME TAXES
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Site Contingency [Table]
Site Contingency [Table]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Wrongful Termination Lawsuits
Wrongful Termination Lawsuits [Member]
Wrongful Termination Lawsuits [Member]
Litigation Status [Axis]
Litigation Status [Axis]
Litigation Status [Domain]
Litigation Status [Domain]
Pending Litigation
Pending Litigation [Member]
Environmental Remediation Site [Axis]
Environmental Remediation Site [Axis]
Environmental Remediation Site [Domain]
Environmental Remediation Site [Domain]
European Drum Facilities
European Drum Facilities [Member]
European drum facilities.
Life Cycle Management and Recycling Facilities
Life Cycle Management And Recycling Facilities [Member]
Life cycle management and recycling facilities.
Owned by Other Company
Owned by Other Company [Member]
Owned by other company.
Other Facilities
Other Facilities [Member]
Other facilities.
Site Contingency [Line Items]
Site Contingency [Line Items]
Estimated liability recorded for legal proceedings
Loss Contingency Accrual
Number of reconditioning facilities subject to litigation
Number Of Reconditioning Facilities Subject To Litigation
Number Of Reconditioning Facilities Subject To Litigation
Environmental liability reserves
Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Noncurrent
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Domain]
Geographical [Domain]
United States
UNITED STATES
Europe, Middle East and Africa
EMEA [Member]
Asia Pacific and Other Americas
Asia Pacific And Other Americas [Member]
Asia Pacific And Other Americas.
Net sales
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Restructuring Reserve Balances
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Total Amounts Expected to be Incurred from Open Restructuring Plans Anticipated to be Realized
Reconciliation Of Amounts Expected To Be Incurred From Open Restructuring Plans Anticipated To Be Realized [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of total amounts expected to be incurred from open restructuring plans anticipated to be realized.
Repurchase of redeemable shareholder interest
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interest share of income and other
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Dividends to redeemable noncontrolling interest and other
Contributions From Dividends To Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest And Other
Contributions from dividends to redeemable noncontrolling interest and other.
Computation of Class Based Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share
Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted By Common Class [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted By Common Class [Table Text Block]
Computation of Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Summarization of Company's Class A and Class B Common and Treasury Shares
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Shares Used to Calculate Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block]
Company's pension contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer
Owner One
Owner One [Member]
Owner One [Member]
Owner Two
Owner Two [Member]
Owner Two [Member]
Number of joint ventures
Number of Joint Ventures
Number of Joint Ventures
Payments for repurchase of redeemable moncontrolling interest
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings [Member]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Prepaid Expenses
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Deferred Tax Assets
Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Accounting Standards Update 2016-16
Accounting Standards Update 2016-16 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adoption of ASU 2016-16, reclassification
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Income Statement [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Cost of products sold
Cost of Goods and Services Sold
Gross profit
Gross Profit
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Restructuring charges
Acquisition-related costs
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs
Non-cash asset impairment charges
Operating profit
Other (income) expense, net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income before income tax expense and equity earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, net
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest
Income tax expense
Equity earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, net of tax
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Net income
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to Greif, Inc.
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Basic earnings per share attributable to Greif, Inc. common shareholders:
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Basic earnings per share attributable to Greif, Inc. common shareholders (usd per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Greif, Inc. common shareholders:
Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract]
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Greif, Inc. common shareholders (usd per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract]
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding, basic (shares)
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding, diluted (shares)
Cash dividends declared per common share:
Dividends [Abstract]
Cash dividends declared per common share (usd per share)
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
POST RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Amortization of intangible assets
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization expense, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Current Fiscal Year
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Current Fiscal Year
Future amortization expense, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Future amortization expense, 2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Future amortization expense, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Future amortization expense, 2023
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Numerator for basic and diluted EPS
Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract]
Net income attributable to Greif, Inc.
Cash dividends
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Undistributed net income (loss) attributable to Greif, Inc.
Undistributed Net Income Attributable To Parent
Undistributed net income attributable to Greif.
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Table]
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Table]
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Table]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Estimated fair value
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure
Assets held by special purpose entities
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance of $0.6 in 2019 and $0.6 in 2018
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Inventories
Inventory, Net
Other assets
Other Assets
Total Assets
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities
Total Liabilities
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities
RESTRUCTURING CHARGES
Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Rollforward of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block]
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Stockholders Equity And Comprehensive Income [Text Block]
The entire disclosure for stockholders equity and comprehensive income.
Debt issuance costs, net
Number of operating segments
Number of Operating Segments
Number of reportable business segment
Number of Reportable Segments
Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost
Components Of Net Periodic Pension Cost [Table Text Block]
Components of net periodic pension.
Components of Net Periodic Cost for Postretirement Benefits
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table]
Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Operating Segments
Operating Segments [Member]
Corporate and other
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Assets
Assets
Total properties, plants and equipment, net
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Derivative financial instruments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax
Minimum pension liabilities
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income attributable to Greif, Inc.
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Summary of Changes in Equity
Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Estimated Fair Values for the Company's Senior Notes and Assets Held by Special Purpose Entities
Schedule Of Estimated Fair Values Of Financial Instruments Table Text Block
Schedule Of Estimated Fair Values Of Financial Instruments Table Text Block
Summary of Quantitative about Significant Unobservable Inputs Used to Determine Fair Value of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held and Used and Net Assets Held for Sale
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block]
Amounts remaining to be incurred
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Level 3
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Interest rate derivatives
Foreign exchange hedges
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Insurance annuity
Insurance Annuity [Member]
Insurance annuity.
Other current assets and other long-term assets
Other Current And Noncurrent Assets [Member]
Other Current And Noncurrent Assets [Member]
Other current assets and other long-term assets
Other Current And Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]
Other Current And Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]
Other current assets
Other Current Assets [Member]
Other current liabilities
Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Other long-term assets
Other Noncurrent Assets [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets (liabilities)
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net
Capital Stock
Capital Units [Member]
Treasury Stock
Treasury Stock [Member]
Greif, Inc. Equity
Parent [Member]
Non controlling interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance (shares)
Shares, Issued
Beginning balance
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Minimum pension liabilities
Adoption of ASU 2016-16
Current period mark to redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest
Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount, Period Increase (Decrease)
Net income allocated to redeemable noncontrolling interests
Dividends paid to Greif, Inc. shareholders ($0.44 and $0.65 per Class A share and Class B share, respectively)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders
Long-term incentive shares issued (shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Long-term incentive shares issued
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Ending balance
Ending balance (shares)
Other comprehensive income (loss), derivatives qualifying as hedges, tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax
Dividends (in usd per share)
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Schedule of Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Table]
Schedule of Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Table]
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]
Number of assets groups with assets and liabilities held for sale (asset group)
Number Of Assets Group With Assets And Liabilities Held For Sale
Number of assets group with assets and Liabilities held for sale.
LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term Debt [Text Block]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table]
Valuation Approach and Technique [Axis]
Valuation Approach and Technique [Axis]
Valuation Approach and Technique [Domain]
Valuation Approach and Technique [Domain]
Indicative Bids
Broker Quote Or Indicative Bids Valuation Technique [Member]
Broker Quote Or Indicative Bids Valuation Technique [Member]
Discounted Cash Flows
Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Land and Building
Land and Building [Member]
Machinery and Equipment
Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items] (Deprecated 2018-01-31)
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Impairment of Net Assets Held for Sale
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of
Impairment of Long Lived Assets
Non-cash asset impairment charges
Authorized Shares
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Issued Shares
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Outstanding Shares
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Treasury Shares
Treasury Stock, Shares
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance of $5.7 in 2019 and $4.2 in 2018
Inventories:
Inventory, Net [Abstract]
Raw materials
Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves
Work-in-process
Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves
Finished goods
Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves
Assets held for sale
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current
Prepaid expenses
Prepaid Expense, Current
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Long-term assets
Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Goodwill
Other intangible assets, net of amortization
Deferred tax assets
Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net
Pension asset
Assets for Plan Benefits, Defined Benefit Plan
Other long-term assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total long term assets, excluding properties, plants and equipment
Assets Non Current Excluding Properties Plant And Equipment
Assets non current excluding properties, plant and equipment.
Properties, plants and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract]
Timber properties, net of depletion
Timber and Timberlands
Land
Land
Buildings
Buildings and Improvements, Gross
Machinery and equipment
Machinery and Equipment, Gross
Capital projects in progress
Construction in Progress, Gross
Properties, plants and equipment, gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Properties, plants and equipment, net
Total assets
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current liabilities
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accrued payroll and employee benefits
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Restructuring reserves
Restructuring Reserve, Current
Short-term borrowings
Short-term Debt
Liabilities held for sale
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current
Other current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term liabilities
Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net
Pension liabilities
Liability, Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Noncurrent
Postretirement benefit obligations
Postemployment Benefits Liability, Noncurrent
Liabilities held by special purpose entities
Contingent liabilities and environmental reserves
Mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interests
Financial Instruments Subject to Mandatory Redemption, Settlement Terms, Share Value, Amount, Noncurrent
Long-term income tax payable
Accrued Income Taxes, Noncurrent
Other long-term liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total long-term liabilities
Liabilities, Noncurrent
Commitments and contingencies (Note 12)
Commitments and Contingencies
Redeemable noncontrolling interests (Note 16)
Equity
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Common stock, without par value
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Treasury stock, at cost
Treasury Stock, Value
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Derivative financial instruments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Minimum pension liabilities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax
Total Greif, Inc. shareholders' equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Noncontrolling interests
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total shareholders' equity
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
Liabilities and Equity
BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document and Entity Information.
Document Information [Table]
Document Information [Table]
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type
Document Type
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Entity Small Business
Entity Small Business
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding