| Document and Entity Information | Feb. 10, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 10, 2022 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001308208 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 0-51142 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MI |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 38-3640097 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 12755 E. Nine Mile Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Warren |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MI |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 48089 |
| City Area Code | 586 |
| Local Phone Number | 920-0100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | ULH |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
