Related Party Transactions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments		$ 224,449	$ 223,239	$ 208,993
The Andersons Albion Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments		46,145	45,024	38,694
The Andersons Clymers Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments		20,339	19,830	19,946
The Andersons Marathon Ethanol LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments		12,615	12,660	13,266
Lansing Trade Group LLC
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments		94,483	93,088	88,339
Thompsons Limited
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments	[1]	48,362	50,198	46,054
Other
Equity Method Investment Companys Investment Balance In Each Equity Method Investees By Entity [Abstract]
Equity method investments		$ 2,505	$ 2,439	$ 2,694

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