Supplemental information for the statement of cash flows (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010	Oct. 31, 2009
Cash operating activities:
Interest paid	$ 5,253	$ 6,518	$ 7,986
Income taxes paid	96,487	21,526	24,893
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Capitalized lease obligations incurred	8,154	5,468	3,257
Capitalized lease obligations terminated	534	721	2,376
Shares acquired and issued through exercise of stock options	$ 5,228	$ 5,151	$ 73