| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 22, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001494319 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 22, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Univar Solutions Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-37443 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 26-1251958 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3075 Highland Parkway |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 200 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Downers Grove |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 60515 |
| City Area Code | (331) |
| Local Phone Number | 777-6000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common stock ($0.01 par value) |
| Trading Symbol | UNVR |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
