Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 264,381		$ 291,109		$ 195,241
The Andersons Albion Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	38,187	[1]	40,194	[1]	32,047	[1]
The Andersons Clymers Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	47,129	[1]	44,418	[1]	34,257	[1]
The Andersons Marathon Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	56,320	[1]	46,811	[1]	34,818	[1]
Lansing Trade Group LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	65,730	[2]	106,028	[2]	91,573	[2]
Thompsons Limited [Member]
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	53,058	[3]	49,833	[3]	0
Other
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 3,957		$ 3,825		$ 2,546

[1] LCs investment balance considers cash distributions made during the first quarter of 2014

[2] Decrease in LTG investment balance is driven by the sale of a portion of the Company's interest in LTG during the first quarter of 2014

[3] Thompsons Limited and related U.S. operating company held by joint ventures