| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 05, 2019 |
| Cover page. | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 5, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Univar Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-37443 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 26-1251958 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3075 Highland Parkway, 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 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock ($0.01 par value) |
| Trading Symbol | UNVR |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001494319 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
