| Document and Entity Information Document | Nov. 07, 2019 |
| Document Information [Line Items] | |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Written Communications | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 205 Crosspoint Parkway |
| Entity File Number | 0-27618 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 7, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | COLUMBUS MCKINNON CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | NY |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 16-0547600 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Getzville |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NY |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 14068 |
| City Area Code | 716 |
| Local Phone Number | 689-5400 |
| Trading Symbol | CMCO |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001005229 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
